Thursday, Feb. 29 from 12-2 p.m. at the Grant Center, the Union University English department held its 31st annual creative writing workshop which featured a creative writing contest and book signing by young adult author and Union faculty member Christine Bailey.
High School and collegiate writers alike gathered at the Grant Center to celebrate friendly competition. Students had the opportunity to enter an original submission into three categories: creative fiction, creative nonfiction and poetry. Each category was judged by an unbiased professional within the respective field.
There were many students present hoping to receive recognition for their talent and dedication to their craft. Among the quality works shared, one particular author stood out. Katherine Anne Thierfelder, a senior communication and creative writing double major, acquired 6 total awards and a placement in each category.
“I like…really really enjoy writing,” Thierfelder said. “I did not expect to win. I wanted to win creative fiction, that’s the category that I really loved the stories that I put in ─ but I don’t consider myself a poet or creative non-fiction writer. It makes me feel good that my writing, which I feel is bad, is still considered quality in some way. It makes me feel like ‘Yes this is something that I can do.’”
After the awards ceremony, Christine Bailey, professor of English and director of composition support, spoke about her newly released book “Burning Little Lies.” The release of “Burning Little Lies” was not only significant for Bailey but also for the students who had the opportunity to help work on the book firsthand.
“In class, we functioned as an editorial team,” Eunice Tan, a senior creative writing major and journalism minor, said. “It started with being a part of Dr. Bailey’s professional editing, publishing and proofreading class. We read all of her chapters and wrote comments back on them. This gave us a deep dive into the world of publishing.”
Despite the glory of the competition and Dr. Bailey’s forthcoming book, Tan could not help but focus more on the humility and character of Bailey rather than her accomplishments.
“The stars are really the professors. They take initiative outside of the classroom to help us English students, especially Dr. Bailey,” Tan said. “Bailey organized most of the event herself. She has a really special love for her students.”
Although the English department creates craft-developing opportunities for its students, the faculty is one of the biggest draws for current and future students alike.
Students within the English department got to lead, teach and mentor High School students interested in writing for the creative writing workshop. This was mutually beneficial for both prospective students and current students such as Tan and Thierfelder.
“I hope the students can see that writing is life,” Tan said. “It gives you a new perspective.”
If you are interested in writing, there are many opportunities to get involved. Just visit https://www.uu.edu/dept/english/ to learn more.
