
Here's the good news: By the time you attend three residencies, write your thesis, and return in triumph to present your colloquium, you'll know everything you should have been doing all along.
Here's the bad news: There aren't any do-overs.
In the spirit of "forewarned is forewarned, or something," here are some bits of advice from graduating and current students. There is more good stuff in the Forum.


The most important thing to finish before arriving is the critiques of workshop papers. I've had a hard time finding time to concentrate and write critiques one the residency begins.

We also have bike racks on the front of the buses. With your UAA ID, you can ride the bus for free. So, it's possible to hop on the bus with your bike and get to the best trails quickly while avoiding most of the traffic.
Biking on the roads is OK, but not fun. Our motorists are not friendly to bicyclsts. Along the roads, there are few bike lanes and the sidewalks are not always ramped for bicycling.
In general, bicycles are safe when locked on campus. I commuted to and from work at UAA for many years and never had a bike stolen on campus. There are some areas of town where I have lost a seat or a wheel that had quick release levers. But I've never lost a bike to theft.

Stock your room with snacks.

The professors are all friendly and approachable. Even in the other genres. It was interesting to hear their stories of book tours, travels, personalities of famous authors, and more. They were always welcoming.


Do not forget your ID if you go to the liquor store near the Blue Fox.
Do not forget your ID if you go to the Blue Fox.




Don't forget clean underwear. We don't know what that has to do with writing, but
it IS timeless advice.

- First, watch RuPaul and remember that you are fabulous.
- Second, put on the record and move those hips. (if you find that this second step is difficult, I recommend a good round of hula hooping to warm up).
- Third, remember to bring your favorite tunes to the residency so we can all get down with our bad selves.