I now have over 40 short story publications

Rebecca Klassen graduated with a Master’s in Creative and Critical Writing, and is now an editor and writer.

“I began my Master’s in September 2019 when my youngest child started school. Having been out of education and work for many years to take care of my children, I was extremely nervous about returning to university, but the staff and students at UoG couldn’t have been more welcoming.

“Writing had only been a hobby, but my lecturers helped me to think about and approach writing in a variety of new ways. I was given insights into different careers within the writing industry, including publishing, teaching, and even bookbinding. The creative industries modules were invaluable, allowing me to direct and produce the University Anthology. Industry guests and lecturers encouraged me to submit my writing to literary magazines.

“The teaching module was especially helpful, giving me a chance to run an undergraduate workshop, which I absolutely loved.

“On the course, I met Amy Scott, who now runs Scott Editorial, a freelance editing service. She invited me to work with her, and now I spend my working day reading books, editing, and helping writers develop their work. It really is a dream job!

“I also met Claire Harrison on the course, who now runs literary magazine, The Phare. She invited me to the team as a submissions reader, and now I am co-editor. Together, we run monthly writing workshops to inspire and encourage writers.

“Regarding my own writing, I now have over 40 short story publications. I won the London Independent Story Prize, was shortlisted for the Oxford Flash Fiction Prize, and this year, I was shortlisted for the Laurie Lee Prize. The University continues to publish my work in the annual anthology, and kindly give me the opportunity to read my work at the Cheltenham Literature Festival. “The course and the lecturers helped me find my place in the world, and gave me confidence and abilities nothing else could have. I’m eternally grateful.”

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