Hi everyone! This is my first time applying to grad programs, so I’m definitely feeling all the nerves with the rest of you. I applied to three TESOL programs out of practicality—Arizona State University (where I’ve already been accepted), The American University in Cairo (I just interviewed), and the University of Alabama (still waiting to hear back).
However on the creative side, I applied to the Johns Hopkins Writing Seminars, and that’s the one program where, if I somehow get in, I’d attend with zero hesitation. My background is a little off the beaten path compared to many MFA applicants: I majored in Professional Writing, minored in Psychology, earned a TESOL certificate, served six years in the U.S. Navy before starting college, and I’m currently finishing my bachelor’s online while working in Saudi Arabia. I have no publishing experience, so I’m really just hoping my writing sample and life experiences help me stand out.
Seeing how many of you applied to the Iowa Writers’ Workshop has me wondering if I should submit one more last-minute application. Still deciding!
Wishing everyone the best of luck this cycle—hope we all end up where we’re meant to be.
