Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Mailbag (1.17.12)

Feel free to post questions/pertinent information here.

208 comments:

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  3. Hello,

    Where can I find a comprehensive list of all the creative writing Ph.D programs in the US?

    Thanks.

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  4. Sherif - you might have better luck with MFA programs than PhD, since PhDs tend to be a bit more academic-focused than the MFA, and so you will need/be expected to have more of a background in literature/theory/etc. for certain requirements. Very few MFA programs require an undergraduate degree in English.

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  5. Hopefully this is helpful to some.

    I went to Illinois State for my undergrad and took courses with most of the creative writing faculty across all genres. I can tell anyone who is interested that there is a strong focus on experimental work. Curtis White founded FC2, which has also published Ricardo Cortez Cruz, who is an incredible teacher there.

    I'm a fiction person, but the poetry faculty has Gabriel Gudding, Joe Amato, and now Duriel Harris. The first two helped my writing immensely.

    Also,David Foster Wallace used to teach there before he moved to Pomona, and his presence can still be felt.

    I'm writing this in hopes that others might share their experiences. This thread has been kind of dead and I need something to ease the tedium.

    One last thing: to those who applied to Texas Tech, was there anything anywhere about a critical writing sample? I couldn't find a single thing and so didn't submit one, but the entire time I thought it was weird given their program description.

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  6. Anyone know how many poets Denver took last year?

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  8. mcw,

    They definitely are as pedagogically focused as they claim to be. ISU started as a teaching school and has kept with that focus. I was told that they put out more high school teachers than any other school in the country (not sure if that is still true or if it was true when I heard it, but I wouldn't be surprised). The downside to that is that there is a heavy teaching load of at least 2/2. They do allow Ph.D. students to teach CW, but I don't know how that gets decided. I would think it has to be on a competitive basis because the English program is fairly large, just guessing though.

    W/r/t Texas Tech, did you submit a critical sample just to cover your bases, or did you see something I didn't see and/or talk to someone I didn't talk to?

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  10. mcw,

    Thank you for outlining that. I have been looking in the same place. If you are right, and they do need a critical sample, then that is the most ambiguous poorly worded paragraph I've seen in a while. For me, I read that as: Lit. applicants should submit a critical sample only. CW applicants should submit a creative sample only. I'm going to call them and see.

    For programs, I applied to Texas Tech, Illinois State, Kansas, Oklahoma State and Louisiana at Lafayette. How about you?

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  11. An update:

    I contacted Brian McFadden at TT and he said it is optional for CW applicants. A lot of people do submit the critical sample, but it isn't required. When asked if it would at all hold back my application he said probably not.

    Not the best news, not the worst news. I wish I would have known because I feel like my writing sample strengthens my application quite a bit.

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  13. I'm a PhD CW 2012 candidate. And I am so glad that this blog is back.

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  14. mcw,

    I don't have an MFA; I have an MA in interdisciplinary studies from NYU. I went to ISU for undergrad. Sadly, they don't offer the MFA degree.

    I understand your concerns about not having an MFA, but on that same thinking I know a lot of MFA students who are piss poor writers. That's not to say I don't think it is a useful degree, but it is possible to go a different route and still become a great writer.

    I suppose my top choice would be TT, but I'm not all that hopeful given the number of Ph.D. students they take each year. Other than that I think I would be happy at any of the schools I applied to. I tried to stay mostly realistic, but who knows.

    Also, hopefully mcw and I haven't been bogarting this thread (although I am enjoying our conversation). I'd love to hear where other people applied and their thoughts in general.

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  15. I think some questions have already been answered but I just wanted to say that I submitted a critical writing sample to Texas Tech to be on the safe side. Also, perhaps we're not ready to hear about this, Brian McFadden casually mentioned in one of the emails we exchanged that the department would make their decisions by February 1st! I was astonished and am now rather petrified.

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  16. Hey all. I'm currently in a PhD program for fiction, so if you guys have questions that I can possibly answer I'm more than willing to help. I know how bloody awful the application process is, bleh.

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  17. mcw,

    I have some crossover with you as well. How I love this community, but still wish the applicant pool was smaller. Im an MA in English (emphasis writing--fiction) and also don't know how to gauge how well I'll do against MFA applicants. So, I'm applying to both. Meant to go big, but TA salary meant I went smallish.

    MFA: Boston, Emerson, NC State
    PhD: Denver, UI Chicago, Georgia State

    I hope March brings good news to all here.

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  18. TychoTronic,

    Do you mind saying what program you're in? I know that (at least for me) a lot of the questions at this point are program specific. If you'd rather not say what program, though, I completely understand. Either way, thanks for offering your help.

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  19. I applied to several MFAs and only applied to FSU for PhD. Does anyone have any info on FSU as a program?

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    1. I had the same plan and, at this point, FSU PhD is my top pick. It sounds like they don't notify until mid-March. More waiting...

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  21. Hi Mcw,

    Yeah, that send in your best work is a lot like "write what you know" - something uttered so much it has lost all its meaning. Honestly, who is going to send their worst work? Was that even a consideration?

    Ideally, we would know what the writing programs are looking for and be able to tailor our submissions to match their aesthetic. I think quite a few might be known via word of mouth, like Denver is supposedly more open to experimental (I have heard. No idea if this is true), Lafayette has the Fairy Tale Review so they're probably rather open to speculative, etc.

    One thing I have heard is that you can see if the professors at the school write somewhat like you do - generally people like to read what they write, after all, and I think you are more likely to help someone whose voice matches your own. That being said, all the professors at Mizzou write straight traditional stories. I, and the person who came in my year with me, write speculative stories. Others write more traditional pieces. So, in that sense, it was entirely a crap shoot.

    When I applied to PhD's I chose one story (better one good story than trying to get to the page limit - I do believe less is more in this case) that I thought had the broadest appeal. Since I write speculatively, it's pretty hiss or miss with the audience depending on their taste, so I chose something that showcased both my strengths in realism and magical realism. Just to be on the safe side.

    I hope that helps - let me know if I can clarify anything.

    Cheers, and good luck, all of you!

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  22. Hey mcw,

    I had similar thoughts with regards to Texas Tech but I also figured I'd give them a week before checking with them. I believe the wheels in academia turn slowly. Will let you know if I hear something.

    I hope all of us get in somewhere.

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  24. There has been an acceptance at The Grad Cafe for Texas Tech. It doesn't specify as to whether it is fiction or poetry, but either way it is bumming me out.

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  25. Hi Everyone,

    Got a call from William Wenthe today. Been accepted to Texas Tech with full funding. Can't really believe it, hasn't sunk in. Haven't gotten my letter yet so waiting for that.

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  26. Oh and I'm a Fiction candidate.

    eal371: hang in there. This is just one school and I don't know if they called everyone today.

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  27. Thanks Perpetua, and my sincere congratulations on your acceptance. That's really exciting!

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  28. Someone posted a rejection from Texas Tech via their website on gradcafe. Has anyone else's status changed on applytexas or is there another way to check the status?

    Mine still says submitted and forwarded to receiving institution. I'm stubbornly holding on to the idea of a waitlist for some form of validation.

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  29. https://eraider.ttu.edu/
    Did you try this site?

    Mine was updated to denied admission today.
    Congrats to Perpetua above, though -
    and good luck to eal!

    Trying to assess my chances objectively was so painful that I even submitted my applications at the last minute ... I applied to a few other schools, but this early first rejection is forcing me to think more pragmatically about my plans for next year, so I suppose Texas did me a favor!

    It's my last semester of MFA -
    Are you all applying to Ph.D programs after your MFA? Right after?

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  30. Thank you eal371 and Konpeki, I am still a little surprised but very grateful.

    Also you've got to hope until they tell you not to.

    I too am in the last semester of the MFA.

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  31. I'm finishing my MA in Writing & Publishing. I applied to Houston (PhD). Still waiting & probably will be waiting until late March/early April for a response.

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  32. Konpeki, where are you getting your MFA from?

    Also I don't want to be an arsewhole by sprinkling salt on anxious wounds but I'm curious to find out why people applied to Texas Tech or consider it their first choice? I understand if this question goes unanswered.

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  33. Perpetua,

    No salt, don't fret. For me, it was largely the funding. They pay nearly twice as much as some of the other schools I've applied to. It isn't often that a Ph.D. student can live comfortably in a halfway decent apartment.

    Other than that, they really do have a beautiful campus. It's important for me to enjoy my surroundings in order to feel creative and productive.

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  34. eal371: Thank you so much for writing back and being candid about your reasons for applying to TT. Are you from Texas or thereabouts? I've never been and don't know much about the state apart from what gets reported in the news.

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  35. Perpetua,

    I'm from Chicago, and also know little about Texas. What I've come to figure out, though, is that most small college towns have very little in common with the states in which they reside. It's a different atmosphere and a different culture altogether. I suppose that in itself has it's ups and downs. Hopefully it ends up being a good fit for you!

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  36. Does anyone know how many students are accepted to Utah each year?

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  37. Hey, if there are any Canadians here, I heard I was accepted to their PhD program Friday the 10th, by email. Anyone else accepted?

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  39. I'm afraid I don't know anything about Utah -

    But to answer your question about Texas just because you seem not at all a salt dispenser kind of person -
    TTU had come across my radar because I had a little bit of acquaintance with Prof. Cristina Garcia's work and teaching style - she's very generous & open-minded - and noticed she was now teaching at TTU. Also, Penn State's faculty list (which I looked at when I was looking for academic programs that might also have a creative writing faculty presence nearby) had a TTU grad, described as teaching "both traditional and experimental" fiction - though "experimental" in itself is such a vague word.

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  41. TychoTronic,

    I saw on Grad Cafe that someone was accepted to your program in fiction. Any idea of poetry acceptances went out at the same time as well? I've applied and would like to know what's going on out there (if you can and are willing to share, that is!)

    Oh, and I've applied to seven programs this year (finishing my MFA in poetry from Ohio State this spring): Missouri, U Georgia, Florida State, UI Chicago, USC, Houston, Utah. Good luck all! I hope we all get in somewhere this year :-D

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  42. Hi Tory,

    I'm not too deeply involved with the admissions process here, but from what I understand they haven't made decisions yet (that I am aware of). It's entirely possible that they have, but I am a little surprised they moved that quickly if they did, for what that is worth. I'd say don't lose heart yet. There still may be good news yet. Cheers, and luck to all.

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  43. TychoTronic,

    Thanks so much for swiftly answering my question! I didn't think those decisions were made yet (especially as I got an email last week saying I should expect to hear back by, at the latest, March 31.) Oy vey this process is maddening!

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  44. Konpeki: Thanks for the information. Much appreciated.

    Tory: I had a near heart-attack when I saw the Mizzou thing and a part of me feels a little better (?) at some hope, that is if TychoTronic is right. This is going to be a long process. Also any idea on how many people Utah accepts each year?

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  45. It now looks as though UGA sent out poetry acceptances via mail... ON THE SECOND! (As reported by Gradcafe anyway!) My heart is palpitating just a little. (It's not a program I expect to get into given my work isn't as archly 'experimental' as they seem to prefer. Still... the lack of definitive news right now is beginning to freak me out.)

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  46. I feel like I *just* finished applications and am not mentally prepared for notices yet. Has anyone heard from Denver or UIC yet?

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  47. Meck: UIC are looking at the applications, I found out yesterday that they got them a little while ago. Haven't heard anything about Denver.

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  48. Thanks for the info Perpetua! Based on Gradcafe's records, UIC is one of the earliest notifying of the programs I applied to. I'd love to get in there (as I'm sure most applying would), particularly as I've been reading (and digging) Roger Reeves's poems everywhere I've been finding them (jubilat, Tin House, etc.)

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  49. Someone has posted an acceptance, on Gradcafe, for Denver via a phone call they received today. Sigh.

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  50. Possible Waitlist at Tennessee, Knoxville. Called them, they're deciding on their waitlist ranking hence the woman on the phone knew my name. Emailed Denver but didn't get a concrete response back. Chicago is expected to make their decisions this week (the guy on the phone said soon with a certain urgency). No idea about Missouri yet.

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  51. Found out via phone that Utah's making their decisions by the end of next week.

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  52. :( sorry to hear that, Perpetua. I'm currently in the same waiting-to-hear-from-Denver-and-Chicago boat you are.

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  53. mgillman, I hope we get positive news from those places. Fingers and other body parts crossed.

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  54. So, safe to assume Denver is a no if I didn't get a phone call today?

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  55. Meck, what do you mean? Were they going to call today?

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  56. @Perpetua sorry, I thought your post (about the Denver gradcafe acceptance) was from today, but I see now it's from the 13th. Should we assume, though, that they call all acceptances on the same day?

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  57. Meck, I want to say no but I think a lot of places try to get it done in one day. Having said that I intend to relinquish hope only when I hear from the school directly which I suppose is foolhardy.

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  58. @perpetua no, there is still plenty of hope. I saw a gradcafe acceptance for Denver from last year in April, so it looks like people DO make it off of waitlists, etc.

    I guess I've been worried because my mentor and recommendation writer is a Denver alum and he came into my classroom Monday very eager to see if I'd heard anything. When I said not yet he seemed more disappointed than I expected. But I could just be reading too much into everything because of acute application season madness.

    This is what the online portals are telling me:
    Denver--
    Application Status: Complete/Ready for Review
    Decision: Not available
    UIC--
    Status: Application Materials Received - Please await further updates
    Admission Decision: Referred to College for Review

    Is everyone seeing something similar?

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  59. Meck: Ah, now I understand the reason behind your post about Denver.

    My application status to both the places says the same thing.

    Also I'm curious, and I hope other people will weigh in as well along with Seth, how much weight does a recommendation from an Alumni actually carry for these applications? I'm interested in all the variables that might go into the process.

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  60. @Perpetua good question. I feel like letters of recommendation probably don't matter too much (maybe in reviewing an applicant they might want to accept or deciding between two). Although I suspect PhD programs put more emphasis on academic acumen than do the MFAs. But that's just an assumption.

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  61. Meck, I see what you mean. Either ways I don't think it can hurt to get a letter of recommendation from someone the school knows and admires/likes etc.

    Got a confirmation on the wait list at Tennessee, Knoxville. Don't know where I'm in the ranking but just happy to have a shot.

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  62. a fragmented history of response times:

    mfaresearchproject.wordpress.com/2011/09/17/application-response-times/

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  63. @Perpetua congrats! You are rocking it so far. How many places are you waiting to hear back from?

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  64. Nick Sturm: thanks for the link. Much appreciated.

    Meck: I'm ashamed to talk about the number of schools I applied to because I applied to MANY! Fear of rejection coupled with the growing applicant pool and the prospect of not having a place to write in/at/around/belong (this last one is grammatically incorrect) had me applying to several places.

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  65. Has anyone heard anything from Kansas? Acceptances, rejections, waitlists?

    I know they already notified their MFA's, but I've got nothing. Perhaps a better question: did anyone else even apply to Kansas?

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  67. @Perpetua no problem. But don't be ashamed - I think everyone here understands how selective and subjective this process is. I'm glad that, no matter what, you'll have a place to support your writing for the next several years. And hopefully your top choice, whichever it is, comes through!

    I'm also very wary of rejection and, particularly, of being stuck in adjunct limbo for the next...forever. But hey, that could happen even if I get a PhD. Candy for everybody!

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  68. eal371: Didn't apply to Kansas and haven't seen any chatter about it on gradcafe.

    Meck: I'm crossing my fingers that we'll all get in somewhere if not the top choices although a top choice would be great. And I hear you about adjunct limbo, I know of people who've made permanent homes there and it's scary.

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  70. FYI the early Mizzou acceptances were almost 100% nominated for fellowships, thus the early admissions. (The internal fellowship deadline was the day before those acceptances went out. You can find this stuff out by browsing their website.) So keep hope alive re: Missouri! In other news... this might be the week the shoes start dropping for several programs (USC, Illinois-Chicago, Utah, etc.) ... it's either now or the week right after AWP.

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  71. Curious - how much are the fellowships / TA ships at the various Ph.D. creative writing schools you applied to or got accepted in? UNLV's funding, at least as stated on the website, seems pretty impressive at $20,000 x first 3 years

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  72. Not that funding's the most important thing when choosing the school's that's best for each of us or anything, I know - I'm just being kind of lazily curious at this point.

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  73. @eal371

    I got an email from Kansas on the 10th saying I'm in pending funding. I'm not waitlisted, but I haven't been totally accepted either. I hope this news is helpful to you!

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  74. @perpetua: Hey, I was also waitlisted at Tennessee, and was wondering if you had any idea how many people they accept into the phd each year? Do we have a good chance here? Just curious if anyone knew more than me.

    And hang in there, everybody. Certainly, good news is coming.

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  75. Evan: I was told that they asked six-seven people, or they made offers to their top six-seven people. I assume this includes all genres and for some reason I got the sense that they take two people or will take two this year. I am not entirely sure. No idea about whether we have a good chance since they haven't disclosed the ranking. I think if either of us was number one of the wait list we'd have a brilliant chance.

    I'm curious about what attracted you to the programme at Tennessee?

    Tory: This is supposed to be the big week, at least I hope it is. It would be nice to have a few more results. All this waiting it driving me nuts.

    Konpeki: I think funding is really important. Texas Tech offers almost 16,000 a year for five years for TAships. An 11,000$ fellowship the first year. And an additional 4,500$ fellowship from the Graduate College or something, they nominate you for it but seem determined to make it happen so I'd say most people nominated get it. They also provide health insurance.
    I know that Florida's funding is not too great, just enough to get by on.
    USC has good funding too (although imagine the cost of living) and they give both health and dental insurance.
    I'll post more information as I find out.

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  76. @ Perpetua and Evan: I was also wait listed at Tennessee, got a letter in the mail yesterday. Anxiety all around!!!!

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  77. @suze: Awesome! I hope one of us makes it.

    @perpetua: I suppose the location (which is close to my wife's family as well as being a city-- though not a huge one-- that is affordable to live in), and the small, but I think reputable staff-- seemingly, also, though I have a hard time finding information on it, a smaller program hopefully, or at least not as gargantuan as Florida's (though I applied there also). And, though maybe this is a bit strange, the way they present themselves on the website as wanting to improve their students holistically. I like the idea that creative writing and literature are given equal importance rather than one being too hugely emphasized over the other. On Denver's website, for instance, I got this feeling that the people who wrote the description were really pretentious and awful and that they'd want me to change my writing to what they wanted, and beyond that, that the emphasis would be way too heavy on the lit/theory side. Unfortunately, most of the decisions I made were based on assumptions (and also rankings because I want to be surrounded by other talented writers)and when it comes down to it, I'm not sure you can accurately judge a program until you're in it. The funding seems fair, though I can't find anything about health insurance on there. How about yourself, and how about you, Suze?

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  78. Thanks Perpetua! :)
    ... and I'm sure next year's applicants will find the info useful too.

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  79. @Evan-- I also applied b/c of the faculty and the impression that the program is relatively small. (Is it?) It's also close to my boyfriend's family, and I like the balanced approach they seem to take towards lit/creative writing. I agree with what you said about their site-- they just present themselves as a very grounded program, with no hint of pretentious attitudes. Let's hope our impressions are accurate! And let's hope we both get in! :)

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  80. Accepted to U Nebraska @ Lincoln with five year funding package. By email today (fiction).

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    1. A cognac of congratulations, Marcelisima! I'm waiting on poetry there.

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  81. First of all, Congratulations Suze! And fingers crossed. I hope we all get into programmes of our choice and if not, then I hope we all get into good programmes.

    Evan: I chose Tennessee for the same reasons although I don't have family in that part of the country. You know what's odd, I don't remember much about the funding now. I should check that out.

    Marcelissima: Congratulations, brilliant news.

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  82. Evan: What is the funding like at Tennessee? I was looking at their website and for some reason can no longer find information on it. Michael Knight was definitely one of the key reasons why I was interested in the programme.

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  83. Congrats Marcelisima!

    Also, Evan and Suze!

    UIC is killing me. Any news yet? Contacted Denver about status but haven't heard back.

    (btw, this is "Meck" - google integration is screwing with me)

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  84. Thanks, Perpetua and Stephy/Meck! Ditto about programs-- here's to hoping we all end up somewhere good! And congrats, Marcelisima! That's just fabulous news; you must be so thrilled!

    I haven't heard from UIC or Denver either, Stephy/Meck. Will let you know if I hear anything. . .

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  86. @perpertua: I believe it's twelve thousand something per year, so not great. It's a bit confusing how they have it written on the website, but I believe the 8000 stipend they refer to is only if you are in the masters and in your first year, and that you get the 12000 if you have teaching experience. So, maybe if you have your masters but didn't teach you would have to take the cut the first year, but otherwise. Can't find anything about health care on there though, which is important to me. Hmmm...

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  87. FYI, USC won't be making offers until the first week of March. This from the program coordinator herself, a truly delightful and understanding lady!

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  88. Accepted to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln by email today.

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  89. Oh, and just checked my UI Chicago status to find I was denied. Not too sad about it though... it seemed like a small and undernourished program.

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  90. Tory: Sorry to hear about your application. There are other places still to hear back from so hang in there.

    Can I ask where you checked your status?

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  91. Perpetua: I know you can check your UIC status here, at least -- http://www.uic.edu/depts/oar/grad/check_status_grad.html

    Mine still says "referred to college for review," so I guess they don't update everybody's admissions checklist all at once.

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  92. Perpetua, what mgillman said. I think he/she is right... it makes sense I've been rejected first if they are rejected down the alphabet (as many places do.) My last name starts with an A.

    Oh, and no worries. I think I have a much better shot at Utah, USC, and Houston!

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  93. mgillman: Thanks so much for the information. I checked and mine says the same thing as yours.

    Tory: I believe in your belief. And I'm crossing my fingers that one of the three schools gives you a place to call home for the next five years.

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  94. Yay Perpetua! I might see you at UNL. :)

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  95. Did anyone else here apply to Georgia State? Their admissions deadline was so late (Feb 15th). I wonder when I'll hear anything.

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  96. Marcelisima, I applied to Georgia State also. In fiction.

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  97. Awesome, Nick! Do you know anything about when/how they notify? I'm guessing it's seriously too early right now, but I saw that last year on GradCafe someone was notified March 2nd.

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  98. Congrats, Perpetua!!! As for the rest of us, still plenty of time and plenty of places to hear from. I'll be glad when it's all over!

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  100. Application season always seems to have these bloopers -- like UNL being unintentionally being cruel by sending a mass newsletter advising me to check the weather on my campus visit, when meanwhile my application has no updates. Heh.

    I think I can relax and see the humor in this now -- I got into the program I wanted. (Silly, but the size of my program is so small that I'd rather not say which here.) So now I'm just trying not to jinx anything and get my MFA thesis written until I get an official letter.

    Speaking of smallness - since the number of creative writing Ph.D students is so small across the whole country anyway, I wondered if any of you'd like to keep in touch and share experiences after the application season -- in a slightly less public on-line space?

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  101. Sure, Konpeki--I'd be willing to do that. Why isn't there a private FB group for us anyway? (And sorry to hear about your bad experience with UNL.)

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  102. @all: What is everybody's preferred school? Just curious. For myself, I'm thinking University of Cincinnati because Chris Bachelder is awesome and I briefly worked with him before and would love to again-- really nice guy with some awesome ideas about fiction, and great feedback, besides the fact that he's an amazing writer. Others? I'm sure it's already been discussed a bit, but maybe the new comers like myself to this blog?

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    1. Michael Griffin is also good there.

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    2. I have heard great things about Michael Griffin.

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  103. I just found out from the states (I'm currently in France) that I got accepted into the PhD program at UIC. I'm sorry, I didn't get any information but I hardly heard anything my dad was saying I was so excited. It came in the mail, so check your mailboxes people, and I hope you have great news too! I do know that they're accepting "3%" of a little over 290 applicants" or I think that's what my dad said, if that helps anyone.

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  104. I only applied to two PhD programs, so I don't know that I have a long list of preferred schools. U Cinn. does have a great program though!

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  105. Congratulations Evan! What a thrilling way to find out. :)

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  106. Marcelisima - that's great.
    Oh, I don't think the UNL thing is "bad" - just funny.
    Shall I look into setting up a FB group? I'm not very good at things like that but I'll try if anyone else seconds the idea.

    BTW - I just got an email acceptance to U of Albany! (Aside from the other school I mentioned).

    I had no idea this would happen -- and this is actually kind of tragic in a way: my boyfriend is moving to Albany for HIS Ph.D. in another field -- and if I had waited to make a decision, I could actually be going with him.

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  107. Congratulations Konpeki! And can't you change your mind and go to U Albany? Or perhaps your other school is a better fit for you?

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  108. Okay - this is harder than I thought. To set up a FB group, it seems the members have to be FB friends first? I thought a "Post MFA Writers" group might be a nice thing to have. I need more writer friends.

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  109. My friend got the call from Utah in poetry today. I did not. There's another acceptance in poetry posted. I'm assuming they made all their offers, at least in poetry. I now know I should've drank more before I left the bar I was at.

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  110. Posted on GradCafe, I should clarify.

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  111. Congratulations Evan and Konpeki (sorry about the whole situation with your boyfriend). Stoked that you guys got good news. I haven't heard from UIC and my status has not changed. Will try to suss out more on Monday.

    I too have seen the postings on GradCafe about Utah/Poetry and am freaked out about Fiction.

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  112. Okay, well, I'm also trying to start the group, Konpeki--I just tried to add Evan since I saw him on the MFA FB. You can add me as a friend if you want and we can start the group that way.

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  113. So, figured out I could just add Seth to the group (Seth Abramson, host of this very blog!) and create it that way. Didn't want to steal your title, Konpeki, so I titled the group Creative Writing Ph.D Draft '12. It's up. Everybody who wants to join please do!

    http://www.facebook.com/groups/192118044227048/

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  114. @perpetua: If the status hasn't changed online that's certainly a good sign. As of this morning my still reads "Application Materials Received - Please await further updates", so there's that.

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  115. Evan: It could also be that they're just taking their time to update my status or going alphabetically as Tory suggested. Thanks for being so positive though. I don't think I can complain, I've already had more than my share of good news and I'm grateful for that. Although I do hope all of us get more good news as time goes by.

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  116. Someone posted a Fiction acceptance for Utah. Sigh.

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  117. It seems everyone migrated to the facebook group. Florida State seems to have notified poetry last night, at least some people.

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  118. I think they said maybe three people? I didn't apply.

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  119. Accepted to Georgia, just now, by mail! Holy shit! Hahaha!

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  120. Congratulations insertbrackets, brilliant news!

    I've been rejected from Illinois, Chicago. Sigh.

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  121. I got my official rejection from Illinois this morning too. Boo them!

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  122. I think a possible Wait list at SUNY Albany. The email they sent me said that the committee was divided about my application and that a few wanted me as opposed to the candidate they offered the position to. Was also told that I am most likely going to get an offer. I suppose this is a wait list as opposed to a straight out offer. Either ways nice to know.

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  123. Have been wait listed at U Missouri & Western MI. I applied to 9 programs last year, was wait listed at two (Western MI & Cincinnati), and was admitted to Cincinnati JULY 28 when it was too late for me to go for a number of reasons.

    I don't mean to offend anyone by this comment, but at this point, I do not think I will pursue the PhD in creative writing even if I am admitted. After all these rejections, I recognize that I am just not that good--at least, not good enough to succeed in this highly competitive field. I can't see investing 5-6 years of my life only to come out on the other end unemployed or teaching adjunct. Just my choice. If I am admitted, maybe my spot will go to someone else with better prospects.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I don't think you're offending anyone. It's a really hard choice to make or even face up to but remember rejection is part of the package, especially for writers. And since when were writers made in schools?

      Delete
    2. Dear Perpetua- Thanks for your kind words :)

      Delete
  124. Offer from Ohio University today.

    Rejection from Nebraska at Lincoln earlier this week.

    Waiting on USC and University of Denver.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Katie B,

      How did you find out about USC and Denver? Fingers crossed for your wait lists.

      Perpetua

      Delete
    2. Congratulations on Ohio. I missed that the first time round. I'm a dolt!

      Delete
  125. KatieB: for fiction or poetry?

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  126. Oh--not wait listed! Waiting for their response!

    I'm poetry.

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  127. Ohcrap. I misread! I blame it on AWP!

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  128. Accepted at Binghamton with full funding. Got a fat envelope in the post.

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  129. i got a rejection from u of i at chi by mail last friday. waiting for three others.

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  130. It's seems that Cincinnati has made offers already. I called and they said they have made some offers but that they are going to be making more offers etc. And that everyone would know by March 15th which I suppose means a big fat no! Meh.

    ReplyDelete
  131. Okay, I take it back. I could still be in the running for Cincinnati! Sigh.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. When you talked to Cincinnati they didn't by chance mention how they were informing people did they? Because if it's by mail maybe we can sneak into those supposed offers they've already made.

      Delete
    2. Evan, I don't remember clearly what they told me. I know this sounds daft but I've spoken to so many schools about so many different things that my head is beginning to mix information up. Sorry I can't be of more help. Perhaps you should call them and ask? If you do, share the information with the rest of us.

      Delete
  132. @perpetua understandable. how many are you waiting on still?

    someone posted a waitlist notification for Denver on gradcafe. says letters (aka rejections) are going out this week.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm waiting on a few still. This process is driving me crazy!

      Delete
  133. Waitlisted at USC, fiction. I hate these kinds of half hopes but I'll take this over a straight up rejection.

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  134. @katieB and @perpetua: congrats! i know it's frustrating but still an accomplishment.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Stephy. I agree but wait lists can't help leaving one with the feeling of having been found wanting in some way.

      Delete
  135. Wait listed at both USC and Utah for poetry-- Utah took 11 total (all genres). Am the first poet in line at Utah, USC doesn't rank their list, but takes an irritatingly "holistic" approach, for whatever that's worth.

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  136. @everyone here: I'm going insane, too. How can we NOT?!

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  137. Postal rejection from Missouri, was expecting it.

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  138. Waitlisted at Houston. I so want this school!

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  139. Congratulations, Perpetua! Hope you get it. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks. I hope so tooo... it would really make my life easier.

      Delete
  140. Is this your first choice school? Easier to move to? Anyway, good luck. :) I have a friend attending the program right now. I think he likes it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Marcelisima: to be honest there are two schools that are currently on my first choice spot but I haven't heard anything official from the other school so this wait list means a lot to me. Houston is such a great programme and my partner and I will be able to move together.

      Delete
  141. That is worth so much (moving together). I've been apart from my husband all year and it is not cool. :( But that's life in academia, huh?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know! When I got the email from the director I was just shocked, couldn't believe I was even in the running yet was a little sad that I didn't get in straightaway. Gah!

      Delete
  142. Has anyone here been accepted to or know of someone accepted to Illinois State? Trying to figure out if a spot may open up.

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  143. Was anyone here the acceptance to Georgia State that's on gradcafe?

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  144. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  145. Florida State University offered me a spot in their programme. In shock. Aaaaaaa.

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  146. @Perpetua congrats!!!! so great!

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  147. Thanks Marcelisima and Stephy. I'm just so blown away.

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  148. I just discovered this site. Congrats to all who have had acceptances! Did anyone apply to Wisc-Milwaukee? I am still waiting for an answer and it is driving me crazy. It's almost April!

    ReplyDelete
  149. Just turned down my Texas Tech and Tennessee spots today. Also, earlier I turned down my SUNY Albany and Binghamton spots so I hope that helped move things along for people who are waiting.

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  150. Awesome, Perpetua! Where did you accept?

    ReplyDelete
  151. Wait. Just kidding. I saw all this in the other group. Does anyone lurk here anymore?

    ReplyDelete
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    ReplyDelete
  153. Hi, probably our entry may be off topic but anyways, I have been surfing around your blog and it looks very professional. It’s obvious you know your topic and you

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    ReplyDelete
  154. Perhaps I am jumping the gun, but I am applying for poetry for 2013, both MFA and PHD creative writing programs, and was wondering if any of you guys would be interested in rating some of my poetry, which is posted on my blog.

    This is the link:

    http://meetmeta.blogspot.com/p/1.html

    Feel free to comment. Good luck to you all, and all the best!

    ReplyDelete
  155. This is probably an absurd question, however, times are what they are. I should b retiring but form what I can't tell you. I have an interdisciplinary MA in Fine Art and Creative Writing. Yes, a washed out degree I have found no use for. I'm looking for options. A MA in English or an MFA in anything seems also, absurd in terms of finding work. The catch is also that I am approaching 60, and amongst other things, am a poet who has worked fairly hard on her skills over the years. I am wondering if it makes any sense at all, would I be at all marketable with a Ph.D. in Creative Writing. Could I find a teaching job even part time, without a track record??? Any hopeful comments appreciated.

    ReplyDelete
  156. Does anyone know of a list of PhD/Creative Writing programs that don't require the GRE? I have been told there are a few.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The University of Nebraska does not require the GRE, I don't know of any others that don't though. Their application deadline is December 10th this year.

      Delete
  157. Hi everyone, there is so much amazing info here! Thanks Seth Abramson! I will be applying for PhD CW fiction in fall 2013. I got a 550(48th percentile) on my Subject GRE. I have a lit background and I am an international applicant. I am applyng to schools that require the score. I will be talking to Profs from individual schools, but I was wondering if anyone could give me their opinion on whether I'd defintely have to re-take the test? Seth Abramson, may I please ask your opinion? Thanks!!

    ReplyDelete
  158. Anyone else out there for the 2013 application season? I'm assuming that there will be a new mailbag soon, probably when notifications begin. Second time applicant for PhD CW (Poetry).

    In no particular order:

    Texas Tech University
    University of Houston
    University of Kansas
    Illinois State University
    University of Utah
    University of Nebraska-Lincoln
    University of Missouri
    Florida State University
    Ohio University
    University of South Dakota
    University of North Dakota
    University of Louisiana-Lafayette

    A really long list, but I'm trying to keep my options as open as possible. Hope to hear from some other applicants out there!

    ReplyDelete
  159. Hey all, here's my list:

    Cincinnati
    Illinois-Chicago
    Western Michigan
    Binghamton
    Illinois State

    Away we go!

    ReplyDelete
  160. Hey PhD folk, there's a facebook group for this application season if anyone's interested: http://www.facebook.com/groups/142681119221866/

    There's been a little bit of action so far, but I'm sure the next few weeks will bring more.

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  161. @darkvanessa - Thanks for posting the link! I've been searching for that group on facebook with no luck. I'll be checking the group and the blog for any updates.

    ReplyDelete
  162. Any way those of us without facebook can learn the recent posts on the site regarding acceptances/waitlists? It would be much appreciated!

    ReplyDelete
  163. Any way those of us without facebook can see the posts on the site regarding acceptances/waitlists? It would be much appreciated!

    ReplyDelete