What’s more useless than a bachelor’s degree in creative writing? A master’s degree in creative writing! Ba dum tss.
But here I am, about to pursue one.
That’s right, Riverbend. I applied and was accepted into a master of fine arts program for creative writing, and, all jokes aside, I couldn’t be more excited. This has been a dream of mine for several years. My undergraduate degree is in English Writing, with concentrations in creative writing, journalism, and professional writing. All three have served me well, but now I’m ready for the next step of truly focusing on something I’m super passionate about — namely, my bad Notes app poetry. I write a lot of poems, which, I always joke, are pretty bad. (Well, they must not be terrible, because someone liked them enough to admit me to grad school. But they could definitely use some work.) I’m hoping grad school will help me refine my poetry, analyze my voice, and ultimately lead me closer to publication. For years now, I’ve been hoping to return to school. I love the academic setting so much; I couldn’t get enough of it in my first four years of higher education. And now, with a few years of a career under my belt, a little more experience, I’m hoping to return to school with the knowledge and maturity I didn’t have during my first time around. We shall see. What does that mean for my job at RiverBender.com? That’s an interesting question, and one I’ve thought about a lot since I got my acceptance letter. I’m not leaving! You’re not getting rid of me that easily. But I might be a bit less available, which is definitely sad. I’ve enjoyed getting to know the community and I regret that I won’t be as available to them as I’ve been in the past. My inbox will still be checked regularly and all phone calls will be returned. I’ll be in the office every day and I’ll write as many articles as I can manage. I might have to adjust as the school year starts, but my commitment to this role and this community will not waver. And, of course, I will still fight with everything I’ve got for the Riverbend. I want to use journalism to help people, to celebrate people, to ask questions. I like to think that’s what I’ve done over the past three years I’ve been in this job. That’s what I’ll continue to do. I’ll still be giving my 110% to every story, every interview, every chance I get to know somebody. I don’t undervalue what that is. That’s a gift. But I’m excited for this next chapter, and I’m grateful to RiverBender, my colleagues, and my mentors for their support in this journey. I’m also thankful for you, RiverBender reader, for your kindness over the years, your willingness to trust me with your community. I grew up here, and I love this area, and I’m so honored that I’ve had the chance to tell your stories. I will continue to do so with just as much passion and devotion as I hope I’ve proven myself to have in this job so far. I can’t wait for what comes next in my life as I enter grad school, and I’m equally excited to continue my work in this role. Reach out to me with questions, tips, suggestions for stories. Don’t forget: I’m here to support our readers and our community. Some things might shift, but my love for the Riverbend region and journalism isn’t going anywhere.
