Rachel McKinley
Rachel McKinley, a graduate of UAF’s MFA Creative Writing program, discovered new creative freedom and editorial insight during her time in the UAF Department of English. From intense, supportive workshops to her work with Permafrost, Rachel’s journey highlights how UAF fosters growth, experimentation, and resilience. Read on for Rachel’s reflections.
Which UAF English/Writing class did you enjoy the most? Why?
My favorite class from my MFA studies was a "Pile and Style" themed workshop with Joe Holt. The class pushed me to my limits in terms of creative production on a weekly basis, but that push allowed me to see what I could accomplish if I made time to write and stopped worrying about "getting it right." Joe was a huge part of that class being such a positive experience as well. He cares about teaching and is dedicated to improving his own writing and practice, and his love of exploration, experimentation, and learning was contagious.
What was your most valuable experience as an English MA/MFA student at UAF?
My work as both a reader and nonfiction co-editor for our graduate literary magazine, Permafrost, has been invaluable. Reading submissions has allowed me to get an idea of what is out there, what people are doing, and what is successful. Working with Permafrost has helped me see take rejections less personally and be more comfortable with submitting and the entire process. Plus, I get to help choose what pieces end up in the final issue and share writing I love with others.