Creative writing applicants should bring a portfolio of three to five examples of the student’s best writing. The pieces should have undergone careful revision either by the student on his/her own or with an instructor. They should represent the student’s strongest work in at least two genres (e.g., fiction, poetry, essay). The audition will include an on-demand writing piece as well as a written reaction to a published work. Please come prepared to write by bringing a pen and paper. Adjudicators will be looking for a thoughtful, honest expression of ideas that reveals expertise in language and insight into literature.

Portfolio pieces should be typed. Students should include copies of work in the portfolio–not originals. As is common practice with university creative writing departments, student portfolios will not be returned.

The quality of the creative writing is most important. Please do not include drawings or visual images in or on the portfolio. DO NOT SEND PORTFOLIO WITH APPLICATION!