“I applied for the fellowship because of the allure of devoting all of my efforts towards the study of literature,” states Kyle Allison (’06), the most recent recipient of this award. Kyle is currently studying modern literature at the master’s level at Royal Holloway College London. “Literature is important to me because communication is important to me. Whether it be from an outer or inner necessity, people need to express themselves to one another. I’m interested in both the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of this expression.” After a year in England, Kyle plans to start doctoral studies in biomedical engineering at Boston University.
Kyle is following in the path of Paul Albertus (’03), who studied English literature and political science at the University of York, and spent much of his free time traveling through Europe, visiting Spain, Italy, France, Greece and Germany. “Above all else my Roger Jones year gave me the opportunity to devote my time to reading literature and poetry, an opportunity I would not otherwise have had,” Paul recalls. “Many of the poems and passages I read are still with me today, and often return to my mind during the course of my daily life. They remind me of the power of expressive language to shape and create personal experience, and the ability of something as simple as words to provide beauty and a deep insight and understanding.” Paul is currently a doctoral student at the University of California, Berkeley, where he is pursuing his long-standing interest in environmental issues, working on modeling and optimization of battery systems for transportation applications. He has continued his academic explorations outside of chemical engineering by taking environment-related classes in the Energy and Resources Group and the Business School.
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Decker Ringo (’02) is second from left at the annual Allom Cup Boat Race between Queen Mary’s College and the Medic’s College. (photo courtesy of Decker Ringo) |
Queen Mary’s College, part of the University of London, was John Decker Ringo’s choice when he was selected for this award as a chemical and mechanical engineering dual degree graduate in 2002. Looking back on his time in England, where he studied literature, architecture, and film, he appreciates the opportunity to travel and study in another country. “Studying literature for a year taught me that liberal arts are no ‘softer,’ or easier than engineering—that those disciplines are formidable in their own right,” he states. Decker also feels he grew from the experience, realizing that “I would prefer to exercise my scientific talent in an atmosphere that is also creatively engaging.” After a stint as a research engineer in industry, Decker will soon start his studies towards a master’s degree in MIT’s Technology and Policy Program.
“Decker, Paul, and Kyle all epitomize that belief of Professor Jones that humanistic studies are incredibly important in the age of technology,” says Murabito. “We are proud to have these three scholars and student leaders as our recipients and our ambassadors.” We couldn’t agree more.