Joanna Adam
MFA Creative Writing, 2023
About me
- Self-published Author
- Studied: MFA Creative Writing, 2023
About my career
After taking a short course in Creative Writing, my mentor encouraged me to take an MA and suggested Manchester Metropolitan University. I applied and was accepted based on a sample of my writing. It sounds simple but having not been in education for a while and not attending university, it was a momentous step for me. The course started in January which suited my needs and because it was online it continued throughout the covid-19 lockdowns without revision. I enjoyed the course so much that I extended it for a year to complete an MFA in Creative Writing.
At Manchester Metropolitan, I learnt to write clearly, to read analytically, to critique and to learn from critique. Listening to feedback is so helpful, as is discerning what is important, what to use and what to discard. I continued polishing my final manuscript from my MFA titled ‘Kept’ and self-published it through KDP in December 2023. During that time, I also had a short story accepted and included in the LISP anthology for 2024.
Since leaving Manchester Metropolitan I have joined Jericho Writers, where I have found a network for feedback, support, and encouragement. I am now working on my second book and continuing to market ‘Kept’, while also looking at opportunities for my short stories and thinking of looking into flash fiction.
My top tip for students
It’s tough but keep pushing yourself forward.
I’m inspired by
I am inspired by anybody who gets out of bed in the morning and keeps working on their passion.
Why I love Manchester Met
The people.