Michael Rosenkrantz is a fourth-year, first generation transfer student double majoring in English and History. Outside of his addiction to studying, writing, and the occasional rant, he is a fitness fanatic and loves running, hiking, and swimming. While aspiring toward a career as a writer, he is also deeply engaged in serving the university and others; he is a Peer Learning Facilitator, a Campus Tour Guide, and the Events Director for the Pre-Law Society.

Presently, his thesis focuses primarily on the “American” post-9/11 novel. While the post-9/11 novel has traditionally been seen as flawed given its focus on the domestic impact of the attacks on both New York and the rest of the United States, this thesis attempts to redefine and more carefully pinpoint not only how the format of the novel has changed, but how it can be redefined through themes of patriotism, citizenship and service. His thesis examines novels such as Phil Klay’s Redeployment, Ben Fountain’s Billy Lynn’s Long, Halftime Walk, and Stephen Markeley’s Ohio. Professor Christopher Mott in the English Department is supervising his work.