Rejected from Creative Writing MFA Programs? Now what?

[@PorschaWrites]

Great video! I wanted an MFA for a long time. I've decided against it for now mostly due to being disabled and the demands of a fully funded program aren't realistic for me at this time. That said I'm still publishing work, taking classes, and getting fellowships. Long comment long, I encourage writers to look at their goals and see what they can do outside the academy to get there no matter if that is indefinitely or just until next application cycle.

[@brianwallacebaker]

I definitely agree! Thanks for watching!

[@leeannpelletier4117]

Trying again this year for the third time. Took breaks in between of a few years. Did everything but apply one year because of illness. Hopefully it all works out this time!

[@brianwallacebaker]

Good luck! I hope this is your year!

[@SubhashiniGunasekaran]

Hey, Brian! Great videos, thanks. There isn't much clarity on MFA programs out there. I am a 26yr old from India. I have a masters' in English Literature. I have been working as an Editor at an academic publishing house for the past three years. I am an ESL writer and have a passion for experimental literary fiction. With this background there is one gnawing question (rejection is part of the process and I accommodate that possibility), what are my chances of getting a fair shot? Will I be given a fair shot as an international student? Will there be scrutiny on anything other than my creative write-up? I would appreciate it if you could take a minute to answer my question. Thanks!

[@brianwallacebaker]

@@SubhashiniGunasekaran hi! I believe we connected via Fiverr already, but I'll answer your question here as well. It's my understanding that you will definitely be given a fair shot. Most MFA programs are all about inclusivity on many different fronts, including race, gender, and nationality. As long as you have a good understanding of the English language and can write fluently, you should have as good a chance as anyone else, if not better.

[@luchahn8430]

Brian!! I wanna ask ur opinion, what do u think about getting accepted into fully funded programs but those lesser known ones and located in cities or towns that r not known for its writing community ? Should I apply to such programs? Would I get a better chance at getting published , besides getting time to focus on writing what would a fully funded non prestigious program do for me/ how can it help me? Esp if the university isn’t situated in a bustling town like New York or Boston… thinking of applying for non funded programs too cuz my mom and dad bought me a house and a car so if I do take a loan it’s legit the only loan I’ll ever take in my life so I think I’ll be fine.. pls pls lemme know what u think

[@brianwallacebaker]

Well, all I can say is that I went to a lesser-known fully-funded program in a city that is not known for its literary community. And it was fine! Not everyone in the program enjoyed it, but I did. There was certainly a lot of work to do besides writing: teaching classes, writing papers, reading assignments, etc. But actually doing creative writing was certainly a key part of the curriculum. As for the city the program is located in, just look for a place you think you'll enjoy living. I would have hated living in NYC, personally. There are a lot of great programs set in more rural and natural areas, as well as a lot of great programs that are very urban. Also, as far as getting published goes, most publication venues really don't care where you got your MFA, or if you have one at all. I guess if you went to a top school like Iowa or Michigan, maybe you'd have an easier time finding an agent, but that to me would be the only possible advantage. If you want to teach at the university level after graduating, then attending a top program is helpful, but no necessary.