Dr. Jeffrey Galbraith
Associate Professor of English
Words: Juliana Bacote ’24
Photos: Kayla Smith
Dr. Jeffrey Galbraith
Associate Professor of English
Dr. Jeffrey Galbraith’s love for writing blossomed in a college classroom. While studying English literature and Spanish, creative writing piqued his interest, and he went on to earn his M.A. in the subject before earning his Ph.D. in English literature.
That love led him to Wheaton’s English department. Now standing on the other side of the classroom, Galbraith’s passion for poetry, satire, and 17th- and 18th-century literature shines through—a passion he hopes will inspire his students and invite them to be transformed by various works as he has been. “I love how literature can get through our defenses and work on us on a deeper level, so we can see ourselves and the world better without being directly addressed,” said Galbraith.
Galbraith sees teaching as a cooperative art. He doesn’t merely instruct his students; he learns alongside them. As he guides students through texts old and new, Galbraith aims to help them achieve greater understanding, which he calls an “electric” moment.
Galbraith also wants his students to refine their craft, so he directs them to Wheaton’s Writing Center. When he was a student, he benefited from his university’s writing center and recognizes that even now, he has room to grow. “We all improve as writers over time and need input,” he said. “If what you are trying to communicate is not coming across, you’re not actually communicating. I encourage students to use this free resource the College provides, no matter where they are in their writing process. I think it’s amazing.”
By the end of each semester, Galbraith hopes to have developed meaningful connections with his students, in addition to fostering their writing. Through office hours and conversations about post-college life, Galbraith gains deeper insight into each student’s life. Ultimately, his love for students and the art of writing has welcomed every undergraduate who has walked through his classroom door for the past 14 years. “I’m thankful my students and I have the opportunity to reflect on and discuss meaningful works together,” Galbraith said. “I truly value that time where I get to speak into their lives and help them grow intellectually and hopefully spiritually, as well.”
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