When you run into Zaniah Blakely on campus, she’s likely got a book on her. A voracious reader, the African American studies and English double major compares picking a favorite book genre to a parent having to choose a favorite child; an impossible question to answer. However, she says that the allure of dystopian novels, and the societal critiques woven into their pages and dynamic characters, is always strong when she is looking for a new book. So it’s not surprising to learn that a person interested in reading about the problems of alternate fictional futures is concerned with helping solve the problems of today. 

Blakely knew she would pursue law school before she arrived at VCU for undergraduate studies, and her curriculum in her double major has reinforced that pursuit. The Department of African American Studies, which offered her the first academic opportunities centered around the Black experience, reinforced the need to continue diversifying decision-making spaces while the Department of English sharpened her writing and critical analysis skills. All talents which will surely aid her in the legal world.

Why did you choose your majors?

I chose English as my first major because I have remained passionate about reading and writing throughout the years. The Department of English is responsible for allowing me the opportunity to hone my craft for writing and critical analysis; there is a lot you can gain from analyzing literature. One of my personal takeaways is a firm belief that literature is one of the core ways we build empathy. 

My decision to add on the African-American studies major came from a deep desire to give back to my community. The department has given me a new perspective with which to approach how I think about the world as a whole. By dedicating myself to the principles of African-American studies and combining it with my passions for literature, I have been able to tackle unique lines of thought that couldn't be achieved alone. I plan to continue an empathetic way of living and go into my professional life with the tools to bridge paths for others.

Favorite class so far? Why?

My favorite English class so far has been my ENGL 417: Themes in African-American Literature course. In that course, the professor had us go over the most notable and important books in African-American literature. We learned a lot about different authors and partook in class discussions about what it means to be authentic. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the one required text for the class, “The Art of Time in Fiction” by Joan Silber. It offered a unique perspective on the various methods to write a plot in a novel or short story.

My favorite African-American Studies course has been my AFAM 111: Introduction to Africana Studies, which is what opened up my eyes to a field I had never heard of before. Prior to attending VCU, I had never participated in an academic space that was dedicated to exploring the Black experience. For the most part, that class solidified my desire to attend law school after finishing my degree. We learned a broad range of historical materials that often go untaught and engaged in discussions on how systemic issues weren't solely an American issue. It put into perspective the importance of diversity in fields that set the stage for many rules we live by.

Favorite professor so far? Why?

For English, I have two professors who have made a significant impact: Rachel Gevlin, Ph.D., and Shermaine Jones, Ph.D. Both of these women are phenomenal professors whom I have had the privilege to learn from. They are both more than eager to answer questions and engage in discussions about the material outside of the classroom. 

For African-American studies, I have two favorite professors as well: Grace D. Gipson, Ph.D., and Lisa Winn Bryan, Ph.D. Both professors have challenged me to see the world in new and different ways. They are constantly encouraging me to think beyond the bubble I live in, for which I am eternally grateful.

What’s your favorite memory of attending VCU so far?

My favorite memory from VCU has to be attending a Sip n' Tale meeting where I was in charge of the whiteboard summary for the recent book we finished. It was a murder mystery, and the group was incredibly lively. Together we mapped out all the strange happenings in the book and laughed a lot about the over-the-top nature of the mystery. It stands out to me as a darling example of the wonderful communities VCU students create together.

What inspires you to want to pursue law school after graduation and channel your passion for helping others?

My inspiration for law school started before I even set foot on campus. I was already endlessly passionate about advocating for community members, so I was searching for a career to match. There are many people out there in vulnerable situations, and I would love to be the person to provide the support they need, especially in the chaotic landscape we find ourselves in today. 

In order to help people the best I could, I knew I would need to go as far as possible with my education. While I considered pursuing a master's degree or a doctorate, there weren't many programs that spoke to me. Then, I looked into juris doctorate programs. There I found people doing the work that I wanted to do. My plan after graduation is to pursue civil right litigation, and I hope to be working with a non-profit that's focused on advocacy or a law firm with a similar goal. 

This desire was only bolstered by multiple professors across both the English and African-American studies departments. There are so many I point to as an inspiration that I couldn't possibly name them all. I'm almost overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the professors I have had the opportunity to learn from.