Farane Zaidi

During my four years at Carleton university, I’ve experienced an incredible journey that has allowed me to grow from an amateur storyteller into a confident, professional writer. From a young age, I have always been fascinated by the eclectic ability of words, spending countless hours reading and writing my own stories. This interest grew from a small spark into a growing fire that fuelled my decision to pursue a degree in English.

The English department at Carleton provided an exceptional environment that nurtured both my scholarly pursuits and creative endeavors. From professors who were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely invested in their students’ success, to fellow classmates who were supportive and inspiring, every aspect of my experience was nothing short of amazing. Unique in its nature, the creative writing workshops were a highlight for me, eagerly anticipated as I progressed through my undergraduate years. These workshops provided a safe space where I could explore diverse genres and writing styles, while receiving invaluable feedback from my peers and mentors. Through these experiences, I not only honed my craft and enriched my portfolio, but also developed lasting connections within Ottawa’s vibrant literary community.

My journey in creative writing led to exciting opportunities, including having my work published in esteemed journals such as the Black Poppy Review and Carleton’s Sumac Literary Magazine. In fact, in my final year I had the honour of working as a Managing Editor for Sumac. This experience allowed me to further immerse myself in the world of publishing and editing as a profession. Furthermore, one of my most memorable experiences during my time at Carleton was working closely with Professor Bozak on an Independent Creative Writing project. I used the opportunity to write a novella inspired by the very story idea that ignited my passion for writing in childhood, which I am very proud of. Through this project, I not only realized my potential as a writer but came full circle and affirmed my commitment to pursuing a career in the literary arts.

As this chapter of my life draws to a close, armed with the tools my English degree has equipped me with, I am eager and prepared to embark on the next chapter of my story.