For Bethany Hutira, an English Literature major at Seton Hill University, there exists a proverbial “dark side” of life, often found within the pages of classic horror novels such as Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and other tales of the macabre. Outwardly quiet and unassuming, Bethany presents her sinister side through her writings of “flash fiction,” and appetite for reading, particularly of literature reflecting the Victorian Era. Far beyond the images of ruined castles and haunted mansions exists her passion, the concept of life beyond death.
“I love the idea of immortality, much more than the blood that vampires represent,” she remarks with a sly grin, before continuing.
“Horror, especially horror that invites the reader to think is exciting to me on so many levels, for without that level of interaction, you’re relying upon blood. Being scared is much more involving than being shocked.”
Quite the “thinker” herself, Bethany is known for being a standout student, and her talents are appreciated by her professors. Michael Arnzen, Ph.D. of Seton Hill’s English Department remarks that “Bethany is a great student, and one of the most complex and complicated thinkers I’ve taught. She also smiles a lot, which is great, considering that most complex and complicated thinkers do not.”
Driven to excel in her education, Bethany faces a busy year as she looks to student teach in the fall semester of 2006. Her dreams are an eventual teaching of college, as she reveals “it would offer more of a higher level of thinking and involvement with the content area,” than teaching a high school English course.
Colleague Matthew Gehly expresses “she is very inventive and will make a wonderful teacher someday.”
Whether or not Bethany chooses high school teaching or continuing her education after Seton Hill is yet undecided, although with her writing talent and penchant for critical thought, it is obvious that she is truly destined for greatness. Remember that old saying, about the “quiet ones” being the “ones” to watch? Regarding Bethany Hutira, truer words have never been spoken.
Good use of direct quotations, Mike -- you really let Betany do most of the talking, and that helps bring her character out. And trust Arnzen to give a twisted but charming statement!
Posted by: Dennis G. Jerz at September 9, 2005 12:49 AMMike,
You do have to wonder about the quiet ones....haha.
This was a very fascinating article that was the right mix of quotes and your own input. I enjoyed reading it aloud. It flowed.
Katie
Posted by: Katie Aikins at September 12, 2005 03:12 PM