From dealing with homesickness, to learning how to manage workshops, to building community in strange places, Charlie Muhumuza and Chido Muchemwa, PhD, share their experiences in MFA programs.

In this honest conversation, they answer the ultimate question: Is getting an MFA necessary for writers?

Show highlights

0:00 - 2:17 — Introductions and welcome

2:18 — The motive for getting an MFA

3:54 — Managing workshops and the MFA’s impact on the writing voice

11:19 — Giving feedback tactfully and growing in confidence

15:57 — Juggling the workload and managing time

20:34 — Choosing and building community

26:52 — Alleviating homesickness

33:45 — Finding research opportunities that can sponsor trips home

35:32 — Making ends meet

42:12 — Chido’s new book and Charlie’s future plans

45:02 – Charlie’s advice on bringing work to the MFA

46:27 — Is getting an MFA necessary?

51:28 — Appreciation and closing remarks

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Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/v0_QHjJPMHs

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Guests' links

Buy Chido's book: https://houseofanansi.com/products/who-will-bury-you?srsltid=AfmBOorb_zqixd0kITaqj_y_9CWb6qEFnjg7-c1-3-6eaUPSfHf7zoPY

Follow Chido on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chidomuchemwa?igsh=d3h3cjNkcnBvZDAz

Follow Charlie on X: https://x.com/cdmuhumuza?s=21&t=GLRRSdbhoZNPfjfGWHvv4g

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Host’s links

Find out more about the show: https://www.journeyoftheart.com/

Follow Lola on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/journeyoftheartpod/

Follow Lola on X: https://x.com/lolaopatayo?s=21&t=GLRRSdbhoZNPfjfGWHvv4g

Sign up for Lola's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hRzE5z

Book a one-on-one with Lola: https://wordcaps.com/coaching/