Class of 2005, BA in Creative Writing

What was your favorite part of studying Creative Writing at UE?

The smaller classes allowed for more one-on-one attention from professors, as well as more in-depth discussions about our work and the work of other writers. And the professors at UE still remain some of the best I have ever had the pleasure of working with.

What did you experience in UE's CRW department that feels special/unique to our program?

It wasn't as rigid as most universities. We were encouraged to explore, experiment, and fail. Coming into UE at the age of 18, I was struggling to find my voice as a writer, and the professors helped me through those growing pains (which never go away). But they never coddled me; they were tough and honest with my work, which is everything a young writer can ask for.

What was your favorite Creative Writing class and why?

Independent Study in Scientific Literature with Rob Griffith.

We studied the writings of seminal scientists like Einstein, Hawking, and Greene, examining not only the revolutionary ideas proposed, but also the craft of the writing itself, especially in regards to how they each conveyed complicated and advanced scientific ideas to a popular audience. Aside from the wonderful and engaging conversations Rob and I had, the class itself (an independent study that the two of us created) was a prime example of the Creative Writing Department's dedication to its students' passion to learn.

What are you up to now?

After I graduated from UE, I went on to get my Creative Writing MA at Ball State, and then my MFA in Film & Television Production at USC.

I am currently a film writer/director. My first film, Bullitt County, is currently on the festival circuit and is looking to hit theaters and VOD in 2018. I am currently in pre-production on my next film, which I have also written and will direct.

I write every day, mostly screenplays that I am developing with my producing partner, Josh Riedford, who is also a UE alum. He and I co-own an independent film production company in Los Angeles called Mr. Pictures. Bullitt County was our first feature, and our second one will start shooting in 2018. I am currently revising that script while writing a few others.

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