Mentoring the next generation of humanities scholars…
In 2018 Yomaira developed and co-directed MUSE in the English Department at Michigan State University. MUSE was created to introduce prospective students to a robust culture of mentoring essential for a rewarding graduate school experience, and a thriving life in academia. Directed at prospective English graduate students from underrepresented groups, the all-expenses-paid workshop allows students to learn more about pursuing a Ph.D. in the Humanities by visiting graduate classes and co-curricular activities (lectures, film screenings, and workshops), meeting with graduate faculty and graduate students, and receiving individualized feedback on their graduate school application materials. Students have the opportunity to present their research alongside current faculty and students. Since its creation, the MUSE Workshop has radically transformed the graduate cohorts of the MSU English Department and has created a Ph.D. pipeline for students from HBCUs, HSI’s, and the University of Puerto Rico.