A Journey Through MA Creative Writing: Haarshini鈥檚 story

A female student in a coat and scarf smiling directly at the camera outside a Christmas Markets hut

Haarshini Sivaparanjothi an international student from Petaling Jaya, Malaysia gives an account of her journey as an MA Creative Writing: Innovation & Experiment student.

Why 海角乱伦

鈥淭he first thing that drew me to the 海角乱伦 was the campus itself. Honestly, I considered 海角乱伦 initially largely based on accommodation - I had an affordable place to live in Manchester. I was leaning towards another university, but once I saw the 海角乱伦 campus, I was sold! The campus seemed like such a grand, beautiful and green space. 

The course structure was also exactly what I had been looking for. The opportunity felt too good to pass up and I knew I was making the right decision. Sometimes, when your heart tugs you in a certain direction, you just have to listen.鈥 

MA Creative Writing: Innovation & Experiment

鈥淭he course was taught in a relaxed, informal style, with an emphasis on discussions, critical thinking, and experimental writing. We were encouraged to think outside the box and explore our creativity without limitations. The tutors didn鈥檛 impose strict boundaries, allowing us to have fun with assignments and really experiment. This approach helped me focus more on the creative process rather than stressing about the 铿乶al grade, enabling me to tap into my creativity and surprise myself with each project.  

The tutors were incredibly approachable, supportive, and friendly. What I appreciated most about them was that you could really tell that each one had a deep knowledge of the subject matter they were teaching, and yet they were so humble and down-to-earth about it. They engaged with us on a personal level, fostering open, insightful conversations.鈥 

The best thing about the course

鈥淭he best thing about my course was the freedom we had to experiment. I knew it was an innovative and experimental program, but I wasn鈥檛 quite sure just how much creative liberty we'd actually be given. A lot, as it turned out. New approaches and unconventional material weren鈥檛 dismissed but were instead praised and explored in depth. I really loved this aspect of the course it encouraged me to push my own boundaries and embrace new ways of thinking.鈥 

How 海角乱伦 changed me

鈥淭his course has provided me with a solid foundation for my career as a food and travel writer. While it may not directly align with my current career, it has sharpened my unique writing style and has given me the con铿乨ence to step outside my comfort zone and take bolder risks with my work. On a more personal level, completing this course made me fall in love with creative writing all over again. I was left with a newfound excitement and a bubbling energy I鈥檇 never felt before constantly nudging me to write and experiment on my own. Before the course, I never felt this.鈥 

Advice to aspiring international students

鈥淢测 advice to all students back in their home countries and aspiring to be an international student at the 海角乱伦 would be; make up your mind, take the bold step, and embrace the journey to success.鈥