Adam is a graduate from the MLitt Creative Writing programme...

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I have been working as a songwriter, musician and music-therapist for the past 15 years. I have worked as a songwriter across film, tv, advertising and video games and worked for the official UK Eurovision jury and selection committee for 4 years. I also have experience as an actor, primarily in musical theatre, most recently in the stage adaptation of ‘Sing Street,’ in London’s West End. I have always had ambitions to write short stories and novels and to have them published. 

What drew you towards undertaking this degree?

I knew I wanted to write but didn’t know where to start. Going back into education was a little daunting but once I realised that the course at Strathclyde was so creatively-focused, I became interested. Once I researched the tutors and read their work, I was convinced that it would be worthwhile. Personally, I am more interested in honing my skills and meeting like-minded writers as opposed to obtaining a degree, but it’s a nice bonus! 

Tell us about the format of the programme. What was a typical week like?

A typical week contained two module classes that changed each semester. I had a few hours between each class to write and study in the library, which was extremely helpful. For my second-term elective, I chose ‘crime and violence in the media,’ which is a part of the criminology course. I found it incredibly interesting and a great addition to the creative work included in the MLitt. 

What is the academic support at Strathclyde like?

The academic support has been the best part of the degree. I feel like each tutor has showcased a different approach to creative writing. Rather than tell us ‘how to write,’ they have given us different options for us to pursue ourselves and provided clear insight into a topic that can be quite hard to clarify. I feel like the tutors have been genuinely engaged with and invested in my work, and they have treated us as true equals. 

What are you doing now?

I am still working as a songwriter and performer and have found that the tools I’ve learnt on the course have helped that area of my work as well. I currently have five stories in consideration at different zines and publications, all of which I found either through staff and student recommendation, or research conducted on the course. I have a detailed synopsis and first four chapters of my first novel, which I am intending to submit on the PhD program at Strathclyde. 

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this course?

I would recommend this course to any aspiring writer who feels like they could use some support on getting their ideas onto the page. The relationships I have made with fellow students and staff members, as well as the tools I have learned in my craft have brought my dream of being a writer to a place that now feels less like a dream and way more possible!