Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA in Writing
Reviewer's Name:
Richard Moore
Review Date
September 03, 2010
Year of Graduation:
2009
Review Title:
VCFA: inspiration that changes you
Full Review of the Program:
Unlike most MFAW students, I joined the program at an advanced age with no experience whatever in creative writing. I guess you could say that we took a chance on each other.
To a degree I could never have imagined, the experience has opened door after door of aesthetic and intellectual riches that I barely knew existed. Even more important is what the program has taught me about myself. I feel like a different and better person.
As if that wasn’t enough, the sheer talent—and human warmth—of the students, faculty, and program administrators has been an inspiration. All of those who run the program have learned so well how to balance rigor with sensitivity to writer’s delicate egos; teaching and mentoring, but do it in a way that doesn’t inhibit creativity and the growth of self-confidence. I miss the program, but the VCFA will never really be gone from my life given the great gifts of memory and inspiration which I take with me.
Advice to Prospective Students:
To do justice to what the program offers, be prepared to work hard. Don't worry about how good you are: VCFA faculty and managers know how to nurture people.
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: No
Part-time: Yes
Student Body
Genre
Fiction
Poetry
Creative Non-fiction
Children/Young Adult
Other
