Creative Writing & UTA/Michener Center

[mandanoret]

I'm a senior undergraduate student, looking to get my MFA in Creative Writing. My dream grad school is the University of Texas at Austin--for many reasons, but mainly because I'd like to pursue my masters while staying near my elderly parents, who live in Austin. Thus traveling far is not really an option, although it may have to be.

I was wondering if anyone had any experience applying to the Michener Center. I know it is extremely selective--for those of you who were accepted, what do you feel aided most in your acceptance? For those of you who weren't, what alternatives did you choose?

Here are my stats:

Pros:

-GPA=4.0

-Honors Standing

-Presidential Scholar

-Will attend New York State Writer's Institute this summer

-Submitted piece of nonfiction prose to journal, acceptance pending.

Cons:

-C in non-credit course on transcript

-Have not taken GRE yet

-Lesser-known undergrad program? (completed at Abilene Christian University)

If anyone would be willing to give me feedback on where I stand in terms of my chances of acceptance at the Michener Center or other top-tier graduate programs, I'd be so thankful. I would also appreciate advice in terms of alternative graduate programs in Creative Writing.

Thank you!