Taylor Swift course hits all the right notes

Why are three British literature scholars standing in the Chemistry 101 classroom, sporting matching block-letter T-shirts that declare “A LOT TO TEACH AT THE MOMENT”?

They’re here to introduce USF’s first-ever course on Taylor Swift, of course.

Led by professors Emily Jones, Jessica Cook, PhD ’14, and Michelle Taylor, the sold-out class maxed out at 96 students. LIT3301: Cultural Studies and Popular Art meets twice a week to explore Swift’s influence, treating her as a significant poet of our time. Drawing on their backgrounds in 16th- to 19th-century British literature, the instructors offer a historical lens through which to view Swift’s work within the literary tradition.

Why Taylor Swift, you might wonder?

“In our fractured 21st century culture, Taylor Swift cuts through the noise. She’s inescapable,” Cook says. “Yet, many don’t take her seriously because she writes about topics like boys and love. That itself makes her fascinating to study.”

Each assignment is paired with a curated Spotify playlist, and there are optional themed dress-up days on Tuesdays. This course isn’t just breaking the academic mold — it’s redefining it.

“Taylor Swift is the voice of our generation,” says Olivia Nolan, a senior double majoring in literature and biology. “The fact that she receives so much backlash proves she’s doing something important. You don’t see such strong reactions, positive or negative, to people operating within the norm. Studying a contemporary figure like this is a unique opportunity I didn’t want to miss.”

Love her or hate her, there’s no denying Swift is shaping today’s cultural conversation. And at USF, there’s a lot to learn from her.

- Melissa Wolfe ’13, Life Member