the craft. for writers without an MFA.
You can still do it. | 11.30.20
My stint as a journalism major was informative albeit brief. One piece of advice I remember was a professor who told us, if you go to graduate school, make sure someone will pay for it. I awaited that faithful sponsor to no avail, so in the meantime, here’s what I’ll share about not having an MFA.
From what I’ve gleaned from the extremely talented writers I know that do have them, they did, of course, learn some great fundamentals about storytelling and structure. But at the top of their list of attributes for their program was really the community. Because I always want to present balanced perspectives here, I’ll have someone with an MFA write about their experience at a later time. However, I’ll tell you a little about my journey and some things to consider if you’re in the same boat as me.
I’ve written stories since I can remember. I had no clue that as much as my mother loves books, sometimes the library was also something free to do with kids. I loved books and so naturally, in little notebooks that my mom bought me, I started writing terrible little stories. I was always strong in English classes and when my best friend in elementary school got a word processor I thought the Typing Tutor was the best thing invented.
It wasn’t until I graduated high school that I realized I might actually have a knack for writing. I won a creative writing contest and that gave me so much confidence because I didn’t think I would win at all.
Like most kids good at writing, I was encouraged to major in journalism. But I very quickly learned in the aforementioned class that I hated news. So much other writing transpired after that including a stint in songwriting after changing schools and majors. But ultimately that nagging feeling that I could write stories like the ones I read growing up wouldn’t go away. And here we are. So, here’s what I’ll say about journeying without an MFA.
Find community. You’re halfway there. From our mentorship program to the PTW Power Hour and more, Permission to Write exists to help bring writers together. Find your tribe because they will be invaluable to your growth as a writer. Our meetup group here in Philly has fed me in many ways far beyond my expectations. I’m inspired and motivated at all times by the talented group of writers that are a part of it.
Read. All. The. Time. And not just for sport but to study. Why do you like the books you do? What did they do differently? What language do they use? How do they describe their characters and pull you into the story? What’s the pacing? There is so much rich knowledge that you can gain by reading. And read diverse titles because it will only help you expand.
Take a one-off class. Whether it’s an intensive at somewhere like Blue Stoop or one of the PTW Masterclasses. Education is great but sometimes it’s expensive and specifically at PTW we work hard to make sure that finances are not a barrier. You don’t always need 15-week semesters but guidance and some good feedback won’t hurt.
Don’t quit. The first project may not be it. Or the second but keep going. Sometimes you have to bump your way around a couple of drafts and that’s okay. It won’t always be easy as you try to find your footing but believe me it’s possible because I am living proof.
Lastly, holler at some books on craft. A few quick faves are On Writing, Bird by Bird, Free Within Ourselves, among others. We have an affiliate link through Bookshop.org, so if you think about purchasing, please consider buying from our storefront which supports the work we do and indie bookstores across the country.
You can do this.
Writing/Job Opportunities
Valeria Kolomiets is now the indie music editor at Earmilk. Send music pitches to valeria@earmilk.com.
Huellas Mag is calling for pitches for their bilingual issue. The deadline is Dec. 15th.
Insider, Inc is teaming up with NABJ to offer a fellowship for early-career journalists.
Forbes Editorial Summer 2021 Internship Program is accepting applications. The deadline is Dec. 14th.
Her Hub is hiring a Senior Copywriter.
Shenandoah Fellowship for BIPOC Editors.
The New York Times is looking for an Assistant Editor in Identity and Social Change.
Morning Brew is hiring for three (3) writing positions.
Buzzfeed is looking for a Senior Culture Editor.
Netflix is hiring a Community Manager for Strong Black Lead.
Red Ventures is hiring a Personal Finance Writer.
Real Simple is looking for a new Deputy Editor.
To Be Read
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