Welcome

March 2020 brought a seismic change to Jamaica when it was announced that the COVID-19 virus had reached our shores. I know that each and every one of you would have been affected by the pandemic in ways that challenged you like you had never been challenged before. Certainly, the Mona Campus was not immune to the upheavals that took place. But here we are! Congratulations to you for managing to stay the course!

As you tackle the challenges of registration, course selection and scheduling, and later, the hard work required for optimal performance in your courses, it may not feel like it, but you are at a pivotal moment in your lives. You have become a member of a scholarly community and this is a wonderful opportunity to expand your intellectual horizons, discover your passions, meet new people and develop what may become life-long relationships. You have a responsibility to yourself, and to the community of which you are a part, to strive to be the best that you can be.

We have learned from the experience of the pandemic that communication is key and that it is essential to be well-informed. Bear this in mind as you begin your academic journey at The UWI. Go to the department website and use this handbook to learn more about the programmes and courses we offer, the requirements for your programme and how to contact academic staff and administrative staff in the department. Make contact with your academic advisor and your programme coordinator and stay in touch with these important people throughout your stay at The UWI.

We encourage you to be active members of our community and to make your mark here at your university.

The Department of Literatures in English wants to help and support you in this quest. Pandemic or not, we continue to respond to the changing needs of the communities we serve as part of our mission of excellence.  Schedule consultations with your lecturers, get to know us and help us get to know you.

Rachel Moseley-Wood

Senior Lecturer & Head of Department