In the wake of the reaction to some of my really good LJ Idol stuff, and a realization I've had about a unifying theme in my work, I am currently considering applying to MFA programs.
Well, not exactly.
I am currently considering applying to the CUNY non-fiction MFA program, because it's local, I think I can get in, and I can afford it.
Pro's?
- having more than a damn BA
- specifically, being qualified enough to teach writing classes, good for the non 9-to-5'ers life (I want to get rid of the Germans).
- Being forced to write
- Gaining structure to what is now at least a moderately structured idea for the non-fiction book people have been trying to get me to write for years.
- Some small credential to help in the publishing game.
Con's?
- Dealing with a school, especially a city school, will make me crazy. I will have to meet obligations I find idiotic and insulting.
- Good-bye free time.
- $$
- Application process: irksome
- Okay, it's a short list, but I can't really emphasize enough how easily annoyed I am.
Issues?
- Writing samples. I could clean up that thing about why I went to Australia and IT WOULD ROCK, but I am afraid the committee would also be all "oh, Jesus fuck, more sex work, SHUT UP."
- I have several great people to ask for recommendations. I feel uncomfortable asking all of them.
- Like Chinese food, this may just seem like a good idea before it actually shows up.
So now you know.
ETA: Having just looked at my transcript, it seems exceedingly unlikely I could possibly be admitted to the program, with an appallingly low GPA both overall and in my major and no real trend of improvement over 4 years. Yup, what I did form 1990 - 1994 DETERMINES ALL. Hey, at least I have a bazillion other careers.