Attending SNHU helped me climb out of two major holes in my life. When I enrolled in the online creative writing program, it gave me a sense of direction and purpose. I decided to transfer to campus for similar reasons. After moving from Massachusetts to Colorado, I lacked direction. As my graduation came closer, I still wasn’t sure what I wanted out of life. Transferring to campus was a welcomed change of pace; it gave me a chance to be around people my age and figure out what I wanted.
Before I arrived, I was most excited to join the Penmen Press. Years ago, during a visit to the campus, I’d met members of the Press at the time and got a good impression. I was especially eager to learn how to edit in a more professional way. It was far from a disappointment. I’ve learned more than I could’ve imagined from Press. More than editing, I’ve learned about making the newspaper and working on a group project like this where everyone wanted to be involved. I’m extremely grateful for the friendships I’ve found in Press and the time I got to spend with everyone there.
It surprised my family when I joined the drama club. When I tried out for “Rocky Horror Picture Show” by Richard O’Brien and Jim Sharman, I hadn’t been in a play, nor had I seen Rocky Horror. In some ways, it was a perfect combination. The people were what made the club such a wonderful space to explore acting and learn about theater. My fellow club members were some of the most patient and accepting people, especially when it came to my shortcomings as a new actor. Performing with them has given me a new appreciation for theater, and I hope to continue to join plays after I’ve left SNHU.
I also have to give a shout-out to everyone in Professor Moloney’s Advanced Creative Writing (ENG-431) class. It helped me set my head straight about my writing and my expectations as an author. Being trapped in my head about my work did me no favors. Hearing other authors talk about their struggles and hear their perspectives on my work helped me more than I can say. Despite wanting to work with words, I don’t think any exist that can convey my gratitude. I hope to someday call these people my coworkers, my fellow authors, or publishers.
Something I wasn’t expecting to happen while I was on campus, but I suppose was only natural, was gaining confidence. I haven’t written as much as expected, but I’ve been able to think about what writing means to me. I know how I want to spend my time in my life. I’ve learned that it’s ok to not know or to be out of place. My time at SNHU has taught me to go out of my way to experience life.
