Wendy Bone
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
To take my creative writing skills to the next level, and to further my career.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I could get an MFA online, so I could stay in my adopted country of Indonesia and continue to work at the same time. UBC is also in my hometown of Vancouver.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
The faculty of the Department of Creative Writing have a great reputation in Canada and abroad. I had read the works of many of the writers on staff and was excited to learn from them.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
I really enjoyed kicking off my degree by joining the summer residency in 2015. It was greatly enriching to meet the faculty and other students and connect on both a personal and professional level. Hoping to finish by doing the same!
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I've particularly enjoyed learning from my peers – both from their individual writing styles and their lives, since writing can be so personal and takes a lot of courage.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
Having an elephant-like skin and continuing to send my work out even when it is rejected or ignored.
How do you feel your program is preparing you for those challenges?
I love having a community of intelligent and experienced writers for support – their feedback has been incredibly valuable for me to grow and improve as a writer. The program has also put me in touch with a much larger writing community through work experience and market contacts. I also enjoy having the deadlines, which gives me the kick in the pants I need to keep going and get my stuff out there.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Being a more "mature" student has given me lots of fodder for writing and experience in knowing what works and what doesn't. My journalism background has also helped me to hone my skills and take my writing in new directions.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I do yoga, dance, and walk in the woods. I love to travel.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Read read read and write write write! Be humble and willing to learn from faculty and peers. Be willing to see the world in new ways.