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DIY MFA*: Creating Your Dream Course of Study Outside Academia

A Business of Writing Workshop

Ever wanted to pursue an MFA but didn’t (or couldn’t)? Received an MFA but continued to crave exploration of topics not covered in the program? This seminar is a guide to possibilities of intensive learning outside institutions, all without the restrictions of traditional MFAs. Award-nominated writer Goldie Peacock will share tips and tricks from their own highly satisfying DIY MFA journey, as well as pitfalls to avoid. We’ll briefly discuss pros and cons of traditional and low-residency MFAs before delving into alternative options. Goldie will present imagined case studies of DIY MFA seekers with a variety of needs, as well as field participant inquiries to shape the conversation. The purpose of this seminar is not to diss traditional MFAs, but to empower people to take charge of their education as opposed to relying on gatekeepers to let them in. Attendees will leave with an invaluable list of resources for optimizing their desired courses of study, including but not limited to: virtual learning opportunities, (free!) craft tools, ways to find literary community, and more.

*A DIY MFA is not an accredited degree. Rather, it is a figure of speech for deep study that mimics a traditional MFA in its rigor but is more individualized and flexible.

$50 Members/$70 Nonmembers


Goldie Peacock writes stories, essays, and poems. Their words appear in HuffPost, Sundog Lit, MoonPark Review, and more. Celebrations of Goldie’s creative work include: Best of the Net and Best Small Fictions nominations for their flash fiction and prose poetry; workshops taught at venues such as NYU, Georgia Tech, and The University of Southern Maine; and residencies with Chez Bushwick and Earthdance. Goldie was honored to serve as both a panelist for the Newfound Prose Prize and first reader for Shortwave. Putting the former in performer as a dance-based drag artist, they once hosted a four-hour show at the world’s largest drag festival. Having lived in six states including Maine, Goldie now calls Brooklyn home. Find out more on goldiepeacock.com


 + PLEASE NOTE This workshop will occur ONLINE via Zoom. Students do not need to create an account to participate, but should test out Zoom before their class if they are first-time users. The week of the workshop, students will be emailed a link that they may click to enter the class.

+ REQUIRED EQUIPMENT A reliable, fast internet connection (broadband wired or wireless (3G or 4G/LTE), speakers & a microphone (built-in or USB plug-in), and a webcam (built-in or USB plug-in).

If you would like to quickly and easily test your internet connection and your computer’s compatibility with Zoom, click HERE. Full details on supported Operating Systems, internet browsers, and more can be found HERE. To download and familiarize yourself with Zoom, click HERE.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED
All MWPA workshops require advanced registration. We accept registration by phone, mail, and online via our website. We cannot guarantee registration in the final 24-hours before a workshop, and can rarely accommodate day-of registration.

PAYMENT & CANCELLATION POLICIES
If you need to withdraw from a class after registering for any reason, please email or call the MWPA immediately. You may be eligible for a partial refund or credit, depending on how far in advance you cancel. → MORE INFORMATION

QUESTIONS
For any questions regarding this workshop, please contact programs@mainewriters.org.

REGISTER BY PHONE
Call 207-200-7180 and register with your VISA or MasterCard.

REGISTER BY MAIL
If you prefer to pay by mail, please print this registration form (downloadable PDF) and mail it to the MWPA with a check or credit card information.

SCHOLARSHIP
The MWPA is proud to offer one full scholarship to this workshop for members-only. Scholarships are awarded on a combination of need and merit. Application Due by October 3rd at 9:00 a.m.
→ MORE INFORMATION

MWPA WORKSHOP POLICIES
Registration in any MWPA workshop, program, or event constitutes your agreement to our terms and conditions. → MORE INFORMATION