I'm Not Nervous

I Should be Nervous - Shouldn't I?

MFA Journey Week Two (unofficially)

I’ve been taking my time, buying school supplies, writing various pieces and preparing for the start of classes. I’m trying not to overthink my commitment by signing the acceptance letter.

Here are some reasons I feel anxious about starting a two-year MFA program:

1. I haven’t been on campus in years (online classes don’t count, in my opinion.)

2. I’m old enough to be the mother of most of my classmates!

3. I’m early to bed - I'm not sure how I’ll keep up with assignments past 7:30 p.m.

4. What’s the point of pursuing this at this stage of my life?

Writing Origins

My writing aspirations do not stem from a long-ago wish to be a writer. I never dreamed of writing a book, ever. That was a dream held by others. Instead, my writing journey has unfolded organically, as if the universe had quietly placed this gift in my lap in my later years.

Some might wonder if I wished I had pursued writing sooner, but I'd be lying if I said I did. It is no mistake that writing was meant to happen for me at this moment in my life. Besides, my younger version wouldn’t have had the perseverance to stick it out.

MFA Pre-residency

The path to graduation in 2027 has already begun despite my nerves and doubts.

The first order of business was a Zoom call last week for both the fiction and nonfiction cohorts to prepare us for the U of King’s residency in June. My stomach flip-flopped as I waited to be let into the Zoom room five minutes before 7 p.m. I felt like a student on the eve of the first day of school.

Things were about to get real.

Then, a warm and inviting voice welcomed us from the other side of the screen. The call was brief yet informative, with answers to questions we didn’t know we had. Another mentor warned us that we’d have no free time, but strongly encouraged us to embrace the experience. Muted nervous laughter rippled across the screen.

“Any last questions?” the mentor asked, prompting a moment of deer-in-the-headlights glossed-over look. No one wanted to ask the first awkward question.

Finally, someone broke the silence, and questions began to flow. We were reassured that there would be bio-breaks, coffee chats, and time for food.

But what kind of food?

I digress.

As a diligent student, I purchased my textbooks, which arrived promptly. What would the start of an academic year be without spending serious money on bookshelf candy?

I first read "Writing Fiction" by Janet Burroway. It covers every aspect of writing and more. The straightforward explanations, supported by precise examples, satisfied my hippocampus. If only someone had recommended it to me sooner….

So I’m passing along the recommendation to you!

I’m Not Nervous….

as much…

Reasons to feel excited and elated about embarking on a two-year MFA program:

1. I haven’t been on campus in years and can’t wait to walk through the outdoor quad, surrounded by the blooms of an early East Coast summer.

2. I am now at a stage where I stand firmly in who I am, with the wisdom to lead when necessary.

3. I wake up early and cherish the peaceful morning hours.

4. I’ve waited my whole life to feel passionate about a craft. This is my time to shine.

All you need is pen, paper - mind and muscle.

And a sweet doggo named Johny Cash.

I’m excited for the opportunity of a lifetime.