While it’s always great to have big ideas and dreams, sometimes life just doesn’t go the way you planned. In these cases, it can be incredibly difficult to figure out what went wrong and how you can fix it. Even if you’re in a state of mind where you want to devote your life to science, you may find yourself at a loss as to what to do next. In this article, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of getting into a graduate program in creative writing, as well as the various applications, requirements, and common pitfalls that you need to avoid.
What Type of Creative Writing Program Should You Pursue?
To start, let’s discuss the type of creative writing program you should pursue. There are two distinct types of graduate programs in creative writing: those that focus on a specific genre, like fiction or non-fiction, and those that are more broad in scope. Broadly speaking, the former generally require more specialized knowledge and are more suited to producing high-quality literature, while the latter are generally more suitable for preparing you for a career in academia or industry. The choice largely comes down to your natural bent and the type of work you’re interested in producing. If you’re uncertain as to which one is the right fit for you, then perhaps it’s best to attend multiple programs to see which one suits you best.
If you’re looking for a specific genre, then the type of program you should pursue will depend on what you want to write. For example, if you’re passionate about historical fiction, then you may want to consider applying to the MFA in creative writing with a focus on historical fiction, or if you want to write in the medieval period, then you may want to consider applying to the MFA in creative writing with a focus on medieval history. In either case, you should keep in mind that most graduate creative writing programs are highly competitive, so make sure you submit your application well ahead of the deadline.
Which City Should You Study In?
Next, let’s consider the city you should study in. Nowadays, many PhD programs in creative writing are concentrated in big cities like New York or Los Angeles, but the choice largely comes down to personal preference. If you’re a fan of a large urban environment, then you may want to consider studying in one of these metropolises. However, even those in smaller cities can enjoy an advanced degree in creative writing, as long as they have a vibrant literary scene and the ability to study in a comfortable setting. While the option of city living may appeal to you, make sure you also consider the benefits of living in a small town and being able to immerse yourself in a quieter, more peaceful environment. If you choose to live in a small town, then be sure to seek out the advantages that come with it.
Does Financial Aid Play A Role?
Finally, let’s discuss the role financial aid plays in your decision-making process. For those who qualify, graduate students in creative writing may be able to receive financial aid through various government and private agencies, meaning you may not have to devote a significant portion of your income to your studies. As long as you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may be able to access a variety of grants and low-interest loans through the government agencies like the NIH and the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, many creative writing PhD programs offer some level of financial assistance, so make sure you look into these programs if you qualify.
The Downsides Of Going To Graduate School
While graduate school can be an incredible opportunity to develop your skills and gain experience, it can also be a very daunting experience. Let’s discuss some of the things you need to be aware of if you’re thinking about pursuing graduate school in the future.
Firstly, the competition for spots in graduate programs can be incredibly high. As we discussed earlier, many PhD programs in creative writing are highly competitive, meaning that there are often many qualified applicants for every spot. If you’re not one of the lucky ones, then it can be difficult to see how you’ll be able to pay back your student loans when you’re living on a graduate student’s stipend. Additionally, many doctorate programs in creative writing require you to write a thesis or dissertation, which can further strain your already limited time. Inevitably, graduate school will place a big strain on your personal life as well, as you’ll be expected to pursue your studies while also maintaining a consistent work and social schedule. All in all, graduate school is a big commitment and not something to consider lightly.
On the plus side, though, you will have the opportunity to interact with some of the most prominent scholars in your field, and the ability to write a convincing, well-researched essay can put you ahead of the competition for high-quality jobs and prestigious awards. In some cases, it’s even possible that your work may be eligible for publication, which in turn could lead to additional opportunities. Last but not least, a PhD in creative writing can significantly enhance your C.V., enabling you to stand out from the crowd and land that all-important first-job. So, all things considered, while it’s always great to have big dreams and ideas, sometimes life just doesn’t go the way you planned. In these cases, it can be incredibly difficult to figure out what went wrong and how you can fix it. Even if you’re in a state of mind where you want to devote your life to science, you may find yourself at a loss as to what to do next. In this article, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of getting into a graduate program in creative writing, as well as the various applications, requirements, and common pitfalls that you need to avoid. Good luck out there.