In this flagship series, we’re highlighting graduating University of Iowa students who have woven writing into their academic journeys across disciplines.
Today we are featuring Lillian Giddings. Lillian is from Independence, Iowa and studied English and creative writing on the publishing track with a minor in public policy. She is proud to have served on the executive board for Catharsis Literary Magazine and earthwords, tutored as an Honors Writing Fellow, and worked as an editorial assistant at the University of Iowa Press. She enjoys writing about the natural world and reading historical romance.
In a few short sentences, tell us how writing impacted your time here at the University of Iowa?
Stories have power. During my time at the University of Iowa, I feel I’ve gained the tools needed to craft powerful stories. As a liberal arts and humanities student, I wrote across many disciplines including creative writing, philosophy, public policy, and literary studies. I realized quickly in the foundational courses for each of these fields that I could have amazing ideas, but without strong writing skills I would not be able to clearly communicate those ideas to others.
What was one of your favorite classes or activities related to writing?
I was fortunate to be able to participate in the Irish Writing Program and spend a summer studying abroad with NWP faculty, Inara Verzemnieks. She is an amazing writer and professor, and she told our class something I will never forget: “the living is the writing.” This class challenged me to look inward and outward for sources of inspiration and take careful notice of the world around me. I learned to incorporate research into my creative writing, weaving other’s stories with my own.
What advice would you give to incoming students about writing at Iowa?
If you want to write well, you must read widely. This maxim is one I truly believe. Your writing does not exist in a vacuum. Being curious about other writers and scholars will only every benefit your writing as you learn the variety of writing styles and techniques that engage different audiences. Also, get involved with student orgs related to writing! There are so many publications and writing groups where you can interact with peers to exchange ideas and get feedback in a low-pressure atmosphere.
What are your plans for post-graduation? Any projects, continued studies, or exciting work news we can share?
Next year, I will finish a Master of Public Affairs at the University of Iowa. I plan to pursue a career in public service through a communications or engagement role. This summer I will be interning with the USDA Food and Safety Inspection Service Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Education where I will further hone my technical editorial and writing skills. However, I hope to continually engage with a creative writing community and seek out others who share my love for the human story.