Hi. I’m also applying to JHU. I am just looking at my sample from their perspective and trying to explain my choices. I’m also looking at my future goals for improvement and explaining how their program could help me reach those goals. I think it is very much up to you and how you interpret the prompt. As long as you engage with your work in some way and connect that to your reasoning for applying, I think you will be ok.
Good luck with your book on submission soon! I’d say people definitely get in with manuscript excerpts but I’m wondering about once you get into a program if you will perhaps naturally switch to short stories… it seems like with the amount you will have to produce and new things you will learn that short stories might be better suited to actual workshop. This is all just a hunch. Maybe try writing one just for fun once you submit apps and see how you feel?
Hey, thanks for this chant! In my opinion, your background is a strength. I think it makes you more interesting and shows dedication. I wouldn’t be insecure about it! Play it up in your SOP and be proud of your journey so far!
This is so kind of you!
I am trying to make it unique and not just “I want money and time to write” which is probably what everyone is writing and why anyone applies to MFAs in general. I also have one school that wants an SOP and personal statement. I’m having a lot of trouble putting those together and making sure they are distinct enough.