02-05-2025
From classroom to career: Sophia Wood's English degree journey
Sophia Wood is set to graduate debt-free from Ohio State Mansfield on May 4, a goal she set for herself while attending Ashland High School.
'When I was a junior and senior in high school, I knew that Ohio State Mansfield was my first choice,' she said. 'I wanted to get through college without any debt. That was very, very important to me, and I also wanted to attend a well-rounded university.'
Wood, an English major, said her studies helped her develop skills in writing, rhetoric, critical thinking and attention to detail. Despite questions from peers about her career prospects with an English degree, Wood remained confident in her path, according to an announcement from the school.
'When I'm asked, 'What can you do with an English major?' my answer is anything and everything,' she said. 'I will do anything I want because I have an English degree and have learned the art of rhetoric and communication. This English program can and will help prepare you for that.'
Wood will begin her career as a paralegal for the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office on May 5, just one day after graduation.
Outside the classroom, Wood worked as a student assistant in the Dean's Suite, where she honed her skills in project management, communication and storytelling.
'Having Sophia as a student writer on our dean's office team has been an invaluable experience for both her and us,' said Cindy Wood, director of development and community affairs at Ohio State Mansfield. 'She channeled her passion for writing and literature into storytelling that connects alumni, donors, community members and students through a current student's perspective.'
Wood also served as a tutor in the Conard Learning Center, where she both studied and helped other students. She credits Andrew Mueller, the center's director, and Breanna Truax, the coordinator, for helping her understand the importance of tutoring and working with students from all kinds of backgrounds. .
'Andrew and Breanna made me feel at home, whether I was studying for my own classes or tutoring another student,' she said. 'At times, the CLC felt like a second home to me, and I know other students feel the same way.'
Wood said the faculty and staff at Ohio State Mansfield exceeded her expectations and kept her engaged throughout her studies.
'I don't think I understood the magnitude of this campus and what it does for students until I completed a few classes and worked for Cindy Wood,' she said. 'The staff and faculty genuinely care about students and you have the opportunity to develop close relationships and mentorships.'
For Wood, writing is a powerful tool with the potential to impact lives. She looks forward to using her skills in her future career.
This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at or share your thoughts at with our News Automation and AI team.
This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Ohio State Mansfield grad Sophia Wood excels in English studies
