“Those Who Don’t Quit Are the Ones Who Get Published”

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In what ways has your writing style, process, and vision changed since graduation?

I have begun experimenting more with form, structure, and points of view. My stories usually emerge from prompts I receive from generative writing workshops. I typically write around 1,000 words in response. I return to it after a few days — to see if the story can be developed into something more or if I need to make it tighter. My vision has become realistic, with utmost focus on patience, perseverance, and commitment to writing. Most importantly, I have begun to enjoy the writing process and going with the flow instead of stressing how it would turn out or its publication prospects. That’s when my stories turn out well.

How did/does the MFA program help you with your writing goals?

Before my MFA, I bracketed myself as a writer who could only write in one genre. The beauty of this MFA program is that it allows you to take courses across genres. This has given me the confidence to write fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or even venture into a longer form of fiction, which is my current project. Every faculty member I have worked with, whether K.M. Soehnlein, Nina, Monica, Laleh, Lewis, D.A. Powell, Aya, or Vanessa, helped me realize my potential and strengths, keeping my writer engine chugging even today.

The beauty of this MFA program is that it allows you to take courses across genres.”

What advice might you give to a recent graduate who seeks to publish their work?

Make a list of journals to which you aim to submit your work. Read their latest issues to see if your piece is a good fit. Subscribe to their newsletters, follow them on social media, and watch for submission themes, dates, or contest calls. Don’t let the rejections bog you down; it’s part of every writer’s journey. I still hold on to the golden advice K.M. Soehnlein gave in 2021 when I hit a low: “Persevere; that is the path for us.” An author I interviewed recently said those who don’t quit are the ones who get published. So, I advise folks never to give up and keep at it.