writerteacher
Nov 10, 2007, 11:49 PM
Post #310 of 454
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If you knew how offensive this post is, would you take it back?
I agree with Bighark. It's insensitive (to say the least) to paint entire regions of the US with such a broad brush; it's exactly what you're hoping people *won't* do to you, no?
I've lived all over the South my entire life (Alabama, Louisiana, Texas, Tennessee, and Virginia) and I can tell you, there are "libaral" cities everywhere. In fact, one of the programs that fits your stated criteria is U.Va., in the heart of Virginia, in an idyllic town many refer to as the People's Republic of Charlottesville (cracks me up). I lived there for six years, and indeed, the politics skew liberal -- though, like anywhere else, there are idiots regardless of political affiliation.
Anyway, I now live in Richmond, a place which has the reputation of being exceptionally conservative and old school. True in some respects, but it's home to one of the top-rated arts schools in the nation (Virginia Commonwealth University) and, I suppose, that may account for a distinctly "liberal" (tolerant/supportive) environment in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. My own family happens to be transracial, and I have not ever experienced any ugliness, overt or otherwise. Yes, in Richmond we do have our share of asses, and I imagine I could find them if I looked hard enough, but I'd rather concentrate on my beautiful family, my friends, and my writing.
All that to say: it's hard enough to get into an MFA program that offers what you need and want. My best advice is to refrain from limiting yourself by your own preconceptions, and consider each opportunity on its own merits. You'll land in the right place.
VCU, by the way, has a super three-year MFA program with lots of TA-ships, teaching and literary editlng opportunities, and attentive faculty.
We sometimes get snow.
Good luck!
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