New Mexico State University, Department of English
Reviewer's Name:
Stefan McKinstray
Review Date
April 22, 2009
Year of Graduation:
2006
Review Title:
Three of the most inspirational years of my writing life thus far.
Full Review of the Program:
The quality of the lectures I received at NMSU can't easily be put into words. I was constantly inspired by my teachers, not just as writing instructors, but as thoughtful, brilliant people. You hear a lot of "theory" from teachers and you worry about its practical use to your work, but with Boz and Mc (Kevin McIlvoy) and Antonya Nelson, I got instruction I was able to take home and plug straight into my work. They taught me that good writing is about making good choices that serve "the work" rather than the sometimes ethereal (and dim-witted) whims of the developing writer.
Advice to Prospective Students:
Don't get into contests with your colleagues. The people you go through a writing program with for 3 years should become your friends and your development as a writer isn't predicated on a classmates' failure. Help each other. Be honest. Give honest, thoughtful reads to other people's work because that's what you'll expect from them. Learn how to shoot pool.
Overall Rating
Reputation Rating
Location
Quality of Faculty
Student Competitiveness
(5=most competitive)
Campus Facilities
Financial Assistance
Making Contacts
Diversity
Career Services/Development
Dating Scene
LGBT Friendly
Social Scene in General
Family Friendly
Cost of Living (5=most affordable)
Dining Options
Admissions
Full-time: Yes
Part-time: Yes
Length of Program: 3 Years
Low Residency: No
Student Body
Genre
Fiction
Poetry
