I would be untruthful if I wrote that I had everything planned about what to do after I graduate from Arcadia University. There are other things that I wish to look into, such as working on obtaining my teaching license and maybe publishing my thesis once all of the kinks are ironed out. Most importantly, I hope to better my chances of finding a well-paying job. A goal that many in my age bracket share.
I find myself at a point in my life where I’m still trying to decide what I want to do and what will bring me the most joy. And I think that’s an ok place to be. As they say, the sky is the limit, and within these last few months, I’ve had a lot to think about. For starters, graduate school is truly a different kind of undertaking. It requires a lot of work, a lot of discipline, and the willingness to grow.
I don’t regret my decision to enroll at the university, and I still think the experience I have gained so far has been worthwhile. Taking a leap of faith was the best decision that I could make. I’ll admit there have been some challenges. Working full time and attending school full time can be overwhelming, but I’ve learned to manage my time and push through. Willingness, I think, is a big part of Arcadia’s MFA program.
Writing is a solitary activity for me, and one of the core assignments students must do in the program is critique each other’s work. To be willing to allow someone, peer or otherwise, to review a piece of work of mine is something that I’m still not accustomed to, even though this is my second year. It’s a challenge to open up that way and become vulnerable, allowing all of your work’s little mistakes and insecurities to be seen by those around you.
Read the rest of the story here…
A journalist by trade, Dominique “Peak” Johnson recently graduated from Arcadia University with a Master’s in Creative Writing. He is currently an Americorp tutor with Joyful Readers, where he teaches kindergarteners and third graders.
