The X-Files Fanbook Project Tori B. When faced with the question of "How has a fictional character most influenced you?" most applicants would immediately jump to the books they have read in English class. Suddenly, all they think about is the character from classical literature with whom they are most identified. My mind is going through this process now as I stare at the very same question. I'm thinking about Jane Eyre, Scout Finch, and even considering characters from The Great Gatsby, and Of Mice and Men. While there are plenty of choices that seemingly appear more appropriate for this application, none pertain to myself. If I chose any of the classical characters, of which I have read plenty, I would be forcing my paper. I would be stretching the truth. To find the perfect fictional "me", I have to move from the realm of books to that of television. The show is called The X Files directed by Chris Carter and aired in the early 90's. The character in this series that has had the most influence on me is Special Agent Fox Mulder. In the series The X-Files Special Agent Fox Mulder or rather Mulder, an undesirable in the Violent Crimes section of the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), had been re-assigned to the X Files. The X files were cases that were unsolved because they had a certain paranormal scent. This fraction of the FBI was (and often still) tends not to be taken seriously by coexisting branches and is often reserved for those "out of the box" thinkers. When Mulder was twelve he believed that he had witnessed his sister abducted by aliens. For the rest of his life he continued to search for her hoping to find her in the X files, or at least an explanation for her disappearance. Given Mulder's personal history, there is not much he does not believe. So with great perseverance Mulder sought out his truths and was considered a crusader among peers. I resonate with the character of Fox Mulder because I also consider myself to be an "out of the box" thinker not frightened by my individuality. I admire this characters ability to rise above ridicule and be fortified in his convictions. Mulder refused to buckle under the pressure of his colleagues and as the series progressed became respected. That respect was epitomized in his relationship with his partner, Dana Scully. When the Bureau decided to shut down the X-Files, he still kept on with her support. I see him as a great example of integrity and a motivator as I set out on my own journey. A journey in which at times, I may stand by myself and be faced with judgments for my personal "truths". In closing, witnessing Mulder and his partner live their life every day working for the Bureau has intrigued me enough to want to pursue a career that combines Psychology and Medicine. My thoughts immediately go to Forensics and Pathology. I often find myself watching old episodes just to keep me fueled. For me, it has been easy to draw energy and confidence off of a character as dynamic as Fox Mulder. I try to take on Mulder's method of dealing with problems. I always try to have an open mind and never look at things from just one perspective.