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Creative Writing MFA Student Spotlight: Anthony Alford

Creative Writing MFA Student Spotlight: Anthony Alford

April 5, 2024
A blue background with yellow headers around the text. The Drexel University logo is at the bottom. The headings are in yellow and regular text is in white. A photo of Anthony Alford, smiling in a grey shirt and black blazer is on the left. He has a shaved haircut. The text reads, "Creative Writing MFA Program Spotlight Anthony Alford What makes a Good Story? "A good story is character-driven. While plot is important, we immerse ourselves in characters because they are the focal point of the story. We stay by their side, understand what they are going through—cry when bad things happen to them, and smile when they finally get what they want. We understand the choices they make and see how their choices impact their lives. We are rooting for these characters and are happy when they arrive at the end as a new person. We get involved in them, not the plot.” What Do You Like Best About the MFA Program? “The best thing about being in the Creative Writing MFA program is being surrounded by like-minded people. Members of my cohort bring different points of view and expertise into the classroom, so there is always something to learn. I feel that my work has already improved thanks to their feedback.“ "If you give up now, that is the end. Keep going."
Same background, but with a different photo of Anthony in the top right, smiling and wearing a brown jacket over a red shirt. The Drexel University logo is at the bottom. The text reads, "Describe Your Creative Process “I believe the best habit is repetition, which is why the first thing I do every morning is write. I wake up every day at 5 a.m., sit at my writing desk, and work on my novel for an hour. This gets the creative process started and helps set my goals for the day. Then, I go throughout the rest of my day, thinking of what I can do to improve my novel. At 6p.m., I write for two hours and reference notes that I have taken throughout the day to enhance what I was working on that morning.” What Are You Most Proud Of? “My greatest accomplishment was deciding to go back to college. I wanted to get my MFA in Creative Writing after earning a bachelor’s degree, but I decided to take a break from academics to pursue other interests. Five years later, I'm glad I stuck to my plan to get my MFA in Creative Writing and enroll at Drexel University." Quick Facts: young adult fantasy His favorite work of art is Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night Takes art classes at a local nonprofit organization Wants to one day illustrate his own novels Enjoys watercolor painting, drawing, meditation, and archery Favorite book is Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo Favorite movie is Rush Hour"
2023-2024 Spotlights, MFA Student Spotlights

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