Pacific MFA in Writing Program January 2024 Residency

The Pacific University MFA in Writing program is hosting its winter 2024 residency and Writers Conference from Jan. 4-14. Each winter, the MFA in Writing program hosts its residency in Seaside, a charming resort town on the Oregon Coast. Each day of the January residency is filled with an expansive selection of presentations and events designed to provide tools and inspiration for the art of writing. In the mornings, students typically attend a craft talk and workshops. After lunch they may choose among a number of talks, panels, classes, and readings. This January, the residency welcomes fiction writer Kimberly King Parsons to present a craft talk and to meet with graduating students to discuss the journey to publication. Each evening closes with readings by the faculty and students. In addition to the scheduled events, the residency includes time for contemplation, writing and informal gatherings. Though students in the program specialize in a particular genre for their degrees, the residency offers opportunities to experience and appreciate the relationship among all the literary genres.

During free time, students enjoy beach-front access to Seaside's famous boardwalk and easy access to a public library, restaurants and shops. Neighboring towns of Cannon Beach and Gearhart provide scenic getaways for exploring the outdoors, shopping and more. A two and a half hour drive from the Portland Airport, Seaside offers an off-season solitude that writers enjoy. Winter weather on the coast changes by the hour, and many visitors come to see the dramatic storms that roll in off the ocean. But the mild Oregon climate also means January can bring sunny and even balmy days, followed by cool nights perfect for a beach bonfire.

Writers seeking to deepen their craft and expand their professional community are invited to attend the Residency Writers Conference with MFA students, faculty and guest speakers. The Residency Writers Conference is open to non-degree-seeking writers who are not ready to commit to a graduate degree program or who have already earned a master’s degree but want to grow in their writing. Conference attendees are completely integrated into the community throughout the residency, and are encouraged to participate fully in the programming. Apply now!