PC English professor reveals the power of a liberal arts education centered around community and research
For Dr. Justin Brent, professor of English at Presbyterian College, 25 years at the college have been anything but traditional. Brent has done it all, starting with his studies as a medievalist to more recently, his passion for researching how to build a stronger community in Clinton, S.C.
After Brent earned his Ph.D. from State University of New York Stony Brook in 2000, the offers in the Southeast rolled in. But he landed at PC because of the opportunity the college gave him to not only educate but continue his own scholarly research.
“PC said yes, we’re going to give you time to do your research. We’ll give you financial resources,” Brent said.
Passion for Medieval Studies
Brent discovered his love for medieval studies shortly after he entered graduate school through an Old English class.
“I just kind of fell in love with the strangeness of the Middle Ages,” Brent said.
After being hooked by the culture of this period, Brent began his research as a medievalist.
For much of his research in medieval studies, Brent has struggled with the sense of loneliness and isolation.
“In the humanities, quite often when you’re starting out, at least, it’s a much more solitary enterprise,” Brent said. “It’s you in the library with a bunch of books.”
Looking for a path including collaborative research, Brent pivoted.
The smaller liberal arts college has allowed me to evolve significantly in terms of my research, and that’s been very good for me.”
Dr. Justin Brent, Professor of English
Clinton at the Center
Today, Brent’s passion lies in how to create environments for growth in small, rural communities. Clinton is the perfect place for him to live out this research.
He studies how to improve transportation, urban design, and community development. His work with nonprofits and grants is what makes these improvements possible.
Brent credits his ability to make this big of a change regarding his research to the small liberal arts environment at PC.
“The smaller liberal arts college has allowed me to evolve significantly in terms of my research, and that’s been very good for me,” Brent said.
Life Outside the Classroom
Many know Brent for his love and passion for cycling. Brent’s bike can be found outside of Neville Hall as he regularly rides it to campus as well as around Clinton. He describes enjoying seeing life from the perspective of a bicycle.
“I think that Clinton is a town small enough that really everybody should be able to get anywhere on a bike,” Brent said.
If you have not seen him on a bike, you have probably seen Brent walking around barefoot, another one of his favorite hobbies.
Putting Students First
As Brent continues year 25 at PC, he hopes to incorporate more service learning into all the courses he teaches.
He recognizes that, for students, a hands-on experience may bring to life abstract concepts learned within the classroom.
“I think that kind of community engagement has the potential to help students see relevance and purpose in ways maybe a classroom doesn’t,” Brent said.
A Long-Lasting Love
Above all else, Brent emphasizes his gratitude for the ability to be able to teach at such a special place.
“I love my job. I think it’s a privilege to be able to teach at a place like this,” Brent said.
