From Oxford to the Spotlight: Award-winning writer inspires future creatives

When Samah Meghjee 18Ox 20C stepped back onto Oxford College’s campus for the first time since 2018, it wasn’t as a student hurrying to class but as a storyteller with wisdom and experiences to share. The award-winning playwright and screenwriter, known for her work as a show-runner and writers' assistant on TV series such as Good American Family (Hulu) and Sunny (Apple TV), participated as a panelist in the From Emory to Industry event on March 19. The following day, she engaged with students in Dr. Resha’s humanities class, offering insights into her creative journey and industry experience. 

Her return to Oxford College was more than a nostalgic homecoming; it marked a new chapter in her career. “I have always wanted to be a writer,” said Samah, “Even when I was a kid, the two things I wanted to be were a writer and a teacher.” Returning to Oxford –a place that shaped her career, perspectives, and approach to work – gave her the opportunity to connect with students and merge her passion to fulfill a lifelong dream.

As she spoke with students, recounting her early days, she was reminded of how far she had come since the start of her student experience at Oxford. She reflected on how she learned to prioritize balance in every aspect of her life. She mastered the art of managing time wisely in order to excel in her studies while nurturing her well-being and maintaining meaningful friendships. She faced many challenges, including mental health issues, loneliness, being apart from her twin sister for the first time, and the uncertainty about becoming a writer. College is never without its challenges— these are just a part of the journey. When asked what advice she would give her younger self, she said,

She recalled that despite many of the hardships she faced as a student, she loved being at Oxford; she leaned into the campus and her community to help her get through it.

The foundations Samah built during her time at Oxford were invaluable in shaping her journey as a writer. The lessons she learned, both inside and outside the classroom, allowed her to embrace the challenges and unexpected roadblocks of pursuing a writing career. The path to becoming a writer is often difficult – it takes time, discipline, balance, and perseverance. Samah advised as a working writer, you may need to take on various side jobs and writing gigs to support yourself but not to see it as a failure but as a way to work on your craft continually.

Reflecting on her time at Oxford, Samah said, “When I arrived on campus, Oxford was immediately the warmest, most comforting, most kind place I’ve ever been. All of my friends, professors, and the people I met cared so deeply about me that I knew this would be a place that would impact me forever.”

These early lessons learned during her time at Oxford shaped her approach to life and the discipline that continues to guide her today. The values she cultivated at Oxford became the foundation of her success. The same principles that helped her thrive at Emory now guide her in adulthood, influencing the advice she shares with others navigating life after graduation.

Photos and Video by Amber Tallent, Oxford Photo/Video