“I’d had a hunch that being on the learning side of the classroom again would be good for my work as a writer and teacher. My hunch was right. Getting feedback from my peers and lecturers reminded me that there’s much to gain from not going it alone, from being read and critiqued by writers of different styles and sensibilities. 

During my time at the Seamus Heaney Centre at Queen’s, my focus was on a nonfiction manuscript centred on the village where I now live. Having mentors who know this part of the world intimately ensured that I checked – and consequently often upended – my assumptions; this was vital to the manuscript, which became my book, 'The Slow Road North: How I Found Peace in an Improbable Country', published in August 2024."

“Studying at the Seamus Heaney Centre has had a profound impact on my development as a poet and writer. It truly opened my eyes, and through conversations with my classmates, faculty, and the broader poetry community, I learned more about how to design my own path that would allow me to both practice my art and earn a living.

The Centre’s atmosphere is incredibly supportive and friendly. From start to finish, and still now afterwards, the environment is inclusive, warm, and welcoming.” 

“The immersion in the writing culture, being surrounded by other aspiring artists as well as extremely accomplished instructors, was very impactful for me. That shared sense of purpose and of wanting to support and promote each other’s progress was especially meaningful.

The atmosphere at the Seamus Heaney Centre is extremely collaborative, supportive and encouraging. Exactly the type of place where one would want to study or write. There is a pronounced sense of belonging and of shared values and goals. I lived on Mount Charles, just behind the new centre, and the updated facilities are incredible.”