Aynsley Paterson stepped out of her comfort zone, overcoming her introverted nature to build friendships and make the most of the Shocker experience.
Aynsley is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2024 graduation. Learn more about her time at and what's next for the grad.
Major
Master of Arts in English literature and language
Hometown
Maize, Kansas
Why did you choose University?
I originally wanted to move to a different state or country for school, but after touring and meeting a professor in their English department during my tour, I felt the most welcomed and accepted at ’s English Department.
What has been your biggest challenge as a student? And how did you overcome it?
I started during the COVID-19 pandemic, so probably having to deal with online courses rather than in person ... I love in-person courses.
What are your favorite on-campus and off-campus spots?
I love my office that I share with my friend Delaney on the sixth floor of Lindquist Hall. We have lovely dark red walls, so many fairy lights and the comfiest couch ever. When I am not on campus, I really enjoy staying at home or walking around the Paramount Marketplace.
If a movie were made about your life, who would you cast to play you? And what genre would best capture your story?
I think the genre that would best fit my story is a comedy or even a dark comedy. I think Dakota Fanning, specifically as a child, could play the younger version of myself. I think the older version of me could be Amanda Seyfried or Ella Purnell.
What are your plans after graduation?
First, I am going to travel to Madison, Wisconsin to visit my best friend for a little. Then, I will come back to Wichita and start a big adult job.
What advice would you give other students?
Make sure you go out and do things! I am a big introvert and not a big joiner, but I always tried to go to events that piqued my interest, and it helped me make some more friends. Also, compliment when you like someone’s outfit, clothing item, hair, piercings or makeup. Talk and connect with people and your classmates, and get off your phone once in a while.
About University
is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. and Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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