2021: UCLA Extension
Novel Writing
2023: University of Cambridge
Creative writing: telling your family story
My first writing course introduced me to the power of structure and community within the creative process. It was then that I began experimenting with outlining stories, shaping ideas into clearer forms, and engaging in workshops that offered invaluable feedback. The experience allowed me to develop new storytelling skills and gave me the confidence to explore my voice more intentionally. The course nurtured a novel idea I’ve remained committed to and still actively work on developing.
2025: Northeastern University London
Furthering that progress, I enrolled in a certified short course that deepened my understanding of narrative technique. This course challenged me to refine my writing through more focused assignments and introduced new forms and genres to experiment with. Receiving the certificate marked a meaningful step in my growth as a writer and reinforced my commitment to developing my craft further. I realized that what helped me grow as a writer was community, feedback and the rigorous structure an educational framework provide, ultimately helping me thrive.
MA in Creative Writing
Shaping My Craft
The skills and insights I gained from my earlier courses laid a strong foundation for my current MA in Creative Writing. Throughout the program, I’ve been able to apply many of those learnings—particularly in story structure, character development, and workshop dynamics—on a deeper and more advanced level. The MA has expanded my creative practice through a rich combination of lectures, writing workshops, and peer feedback, all within a vibrant and supportive writing community that continues to challenge and inspire me as I diversify my writing portfolio.
Commencement Speech
In 2019, I competed for and won the role of commencement speaker at my graduation ceremony. This was a major milestone considering I battled with a fear of public speaking for many years. This moment challenged and shaped me in unexpected ways. Writing my speech pushed me to reflect on how to connect with others through honesty, while framing it through the analogy of story and literature. Standing on that stage taught me the power of vulnerability, the importance of clarity, and the impact words can have when they come from a place of truth. It was a turning point in how I see writing—not just as a skill, but as a way to show up more fully.