12.5 Set up portfolio + presentations on publication venues

Portfolios.  You worked on setting up your portfolios during our time in the computer lab.  At this point, everyone who was present seemed clear on the expectations for the portfolio, and you all had the correct basic structure.  We also talked through the purpose + requirements for the reflective essay that you will post on your landing page.  If you have questions - send me an email so we can set up a conference.

Presentations.  We spent the rest of class learning about some of the many journals that publish creative nonfiction.  We noted that some of the MFA program journals were more "literary" and some of the others were more "story based."  We saw some regional journals, and some that while they said they did not want "political" writing - had clear political assumptions within the kinds of essays they were looking for.  Those of you who did not present last night - will talk through your material (briefly) at the beginning of next class.

For next week:

Choose the piece you will read at our final class.  If we read from 5:00 to 7:15, and there are 16 of you who will read, that means you each have about 8 minutes.  In class we will create a sign-up sheet to organize the time. In class you will also rehearse the piece you will present for the reading.

Blog 13: Post your draft reflective essay.

During class we will also answer any remaining questions about grades and the portfolio, and finish planning the details for the last day.  Have a great week, and see you in class.