Wole Olayinka
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
I published a couple of children’s books as a teenager, and writing has been a constant presence in my life ever since. But for the most part, it's been woven into a career in communications and marketing. I’ve also never had formal writing training — my undergraduate degree was in law. After moving to Canada from Nigeria in 2022, I decided it was time to take my writing more seriously, especially creative writing. Pursuing an MFA felt like the right step to deepen that commitment and give my craft the attention and structure it deserves.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I knew that if I was going to pursue an MFA, it had to be at a top university with a well-regarded program. I wasn’t just after a degree; I wanted to join a community that would push my limits and expand my storytelling. So finding a program with a strong reputation was a priority in my search. The quality of the faculty and the calibre of writers who have graduated from UBC sealed the deal for me.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
It's the unique combination of flexibility and community that drew me in. The program offers online courses, allowing me to participate remotely while living in a different city, along with a yearly in-person summer residency. The residencies are rich with opportunities to connect with other professionals and provide that physical workshop experience I was looking for. The balance is exactly what I needed. Also, the multidisciplinary approach to creative writing and the prestigious faculty were key factors, letting me explore more than just fiction and learn from accomplished professionals.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The big surprise for me was discovering the beaches on campus in Vancouver — one of the main reasons I’m already excited for my next summer residency. Another unexpected highlight has been how engaging the online component is. I thought it might feel impersonal, but it’s been much more productive and tailored to my needs than I expected. The classes cater to writers with different levels of experience, which has been a huge plus for me, especially since I don’t have a related undergraduate degree or much formal creative writing training before this program.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
I really enjoyed my first summer residency, even though it was intensive and demanding due to how packed the schedule was. I’m already looking forward to the next one, which could potentially include my final class before I graduate. The workshops have been another highlight. I’ve appreciated the privilege of receiving feedback from writers with such diverse backgrounds. It’s something that’s incredibly hard to find outside of the program and has been invaluable in refining my work.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Over the years, writing has been at the core of everything I’ve done career-wise, whether crafting campaigns, ghostwriting for executives or creating content for various platforms. So, I came to the program with some pre-learnings on communicating ideas, working under deadlines and tailoring my writing to different audiences, all of which have been valuable skills in the MFA program.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
Sometimes, the unexpected turns out to be the most rewarding. Whether it's discovering a new favourite spot on campus, finding that your courses offer something different than you anticipated, or connecting with others despite any natural reticence, staying open to the surprises UBC has to offer will enrich your experience. I’ve found that connecting with people here has made my time at UBC rich and more fulfilling, and it’s something I encourage every new student to embrace.