MA Creative Writing

“I have always had a passion for literature which led me to doing my Phd in LIterature. was I really enjoyed my time at Essex when I was completing my undergraduate degree and I chose to return to complete my PhD study because of the Department of Literature, Film, and Theatre Studies’ comparative and interdisciplinary nature.

What I enjoyed most was the independence I had whilst completing my research. The Department houses a wide range of expertise and provides a lively intellectual space within which to engender your own research.

The University of Essex has such a strong sense of community. Whilst at Essex I took every opportunity that the Department offered, whether it be training, the opportunity to present work, or social engagements. I would always advise others to do the same as I gained so much from these experiences.

My best memory of my time at Essex has to be when I presented my first research paper at a departmental seminar, it gave me a real sense of achievement.

Since completing my PhD I have been appointed as a Lecturer in American Studies within the School of American Studies at the University of East Anglia. My PhD study provided me with the fundamental training required for me to forge and pursue my desired academic career.

"The facilities were fantastic while the lecturers were very supportive and still continue to offer help, even though I have now graduated! There was always a good atmosphere and I know I’ll never have writer’s block again! I am working towards a career as a playwright, so of course my degree has been invaluable to me, and I have recently been approached to do a Channel 4 TV show called The Audience."