Emma Smith grew up in Virginia Beach, VA. As an undergraduate student at James Madison University, Emma studied English literature with minors in Medieval and Renaissance Studies and Creative Writing. Since graduating, she has greatly enjoyed dedicating more time to writing poems, and the occasional short story. During a trip to London in the summer of 2023 to study Shakespeare and the reign of Elizabeth I, she realized a deep love of travel, and hopes to make studying abroad a regular component of her academic career. She is excited to be returning to JMU to conduct postgraduate study!

During her time outside of university, Emma can be found writing poems, reading on her porch, running, painting, or spending time with family and friends over a good cup of coffee.