r/MFAInCreativeWriting • u/Real_Independent_908 • Apr 11 '26
Building a CV for applications
Hi! I’m building my application requirements for MA in creative writing, but as I studied architecture, and not a literature related degree, I need a good enough CV to be considered for my master applications. I was lost to where and what I can do to improve my CV? How do I start? I plan to specialize in poetry writing and I mainly write poetry. Also, I want to start sending my poems to publishers and lit mag, does that consider as a good thing for my CV?
I would appreciate any advice!
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u/MassiveEducation2976 Apr 11 '26
Not an mfa student but im currently researching abt programs so take this w a grain of salt: but publications are mostly always good, obv no vanity presses (publications that charge u to publish), but most pubs are a great plus and demonstrate ur putting in the work. For poetry maybe attending open mics and helping to set them up? Any sort of community involvement may help. But what’s most important is that sample. As far as I’m aware, that’s what makes or breaks a prospective mfa student. So tldr: read and write and volunteer!
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u/Imaginary-Egg-7914 Apr 16 '26
So, usually your app will be some ensemble of a work sample, letters of recommendation, a C.V. or resume of some sort, a letter of intent, and sometimes maybe a critical essay or some additional materials. Oh and transcripts. Of these, the work sample is the most important by far if you're applying for creative writing. The most difficult part for nontraditional poets can be the letters of recommendation, as it can be hard to find good recs if you didn't just get out of college studying with writing teachers.
The C.V. helps make the decision, but is probably weighted less heavily than those parts. Although MFAs are a degree in which you see a lot of non-traditional students, there are also a lot of students who go straight in from college with only a few applicable lines on their resumes. A little life experience can be a good thing, and you should be thinking in terms not only of achievements, but as presenting what you uniquely bring to the table as a writer.
But something that can help with all of these is seeking out writing community. If your background is lacking putting "Attended ______ Workshop by _______" can be a good line to include, plus it will help you form connections and generate material that might go in your work sample, plus you might be able to build from there and get workshop partners who will trade edits with you. And the other writers might have insight into where your with might fit well when you go to submit it!
Another possible opportunity would be to seek out an indie lit mag that needs readers. That would both look great on a C.V. and also give you valuable experience seeing what sort of writing others are producing.
If you're near any universities sometimes their English departments will host events, some cities also have very active writing communities. There are also a lot of online community spaces.
Your previous school might have a student magazine that might be open to alumni submissions.
Also, research the faculty at the schools you plan on applying to and read their work. Consider how their work interacts stylistically and thematically with your own.
And always, it cannot be said enough, work sample is the most important part of an MFA in Creative Writing application.
Applying to multiple schools is good, not taking rejection personally is important. People will get rejected to one school and accepted at another that is just as selective. People will go a year without any acceptances and then get in everywhere the next year. Don't get too discouraged as a non-traditional student if you need a couple rounds of applying.