Find a creative space at one of these publications

By Madison Maley

As the Spring 2022 semester picks up, so does the creative work coming from students in the Department of English. Students who are looking for a home for their words or for experience in the realm of editing and publishing, can find one here in the center of Tallahassee, FSU’s campus.

FSU boasts many student-run publications across campus. Whether you fancy yourself a poet or a journalist, a blogger or an artist, a storyteller or a photographer, consider getting involved with any of the following publications.

THE KUDZU REVIEW

Undergraduates who like their writing on the creative side can submit to The Kudzu Review. As the only literary magazine on campus run by undergraduate students for undergraduate students, Kudzu is a novice-friendly publication to join if the world of writing and publishing is intimidating to you. They are currently accepting fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and visual art until submissions close on Feb. 25.

For the first time in several years, Kudzu is raising money for a print issue so contributors will have their names published in a physical copy. To support that venture, show up to The Bark from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 15. The Valentine’s-themed fundraiser will offer tarot readings, poems on demand, blind-date-with-a-book packages, goodie bags, and live readings from past contributors. Follow @kudzu.fsu for more information and updates.

THE SOUTHEAST REVIEW

The Department of English has no shortage of writers—gifted ones at that. After all, there is a reason FSU’s Creative Writing Program is one of the best in the country.

Southeast Review is a biannual literary magazine run by FSU graduate students that showcases talented fiction, nonfiction, poetry, art, interviews, and book reviews. The publication accepts submissions for both print and online year-round for a small reading fee of $3.

SER offers more than a prestigious place to publish your work, though: undergraduates looking for experience behind-the-scenes in the publishing industry can also get involved. If you are not a graduate student, but still want to get involved, SER accepts undergraduate interns each semester for hands-on learning experience with a literary magazine. Follow @southeastreview for information and updates.

“We're writers ourselves, and it's incredibly valuable to see what it's like on the other side of the process: what magazine readers look for in submissions, what makes them turn something down, what becomes a deciding factor—plus what kinds of writing others are submitting…It also gives us a foothold in working with magazines in the future, and how to be part of a team and/or a leader in other organizations,” says Laura Biagi, editor in chief for SER and a doctoral candidate in FSU’s Creative Writing Program.

STRIKE MAGAZINE

Strike Magazine might be the publication for you if you are obsessed with the latest cultural trends. Whether you’re a reader looking to keep up with lifestyle tips and pop culture updates or a creative looking for an outlet, Strike certainly has something to offer.

“Students should get involved with Strike because we are more than just a club to sign up for,” says Tabitha Labrato, editor in chief of Strike and an English major. “Every member of our staff serves a unique purpose, anywhere from styling for a shoot to writing articles to managing our finances. Strike is a place for the students of FSU to show off their creativity and nurture their love for whatever their passions are.”

There is currently an open call for models to work on Strike-led projects throughout the semester, as well as upcoming fundraising events all are welcome to attend. To stay updated this semester, follow @strikemagazine.

DIVERSE WORLD FASHION

If you have a vested interest in all things fashion and beauty, maybe you should offer your expertise to the dedicated workers at DWF.

“DWF Magazine is a special place where diversity and inclusivity is our main goal in whatever we do… We aim to create a space of creativity and kindness where students can gain exposure to the many facets of putting a fashion magazine together. This is a place to meet new people and establish great friendships and connections,” says Mariana Valencia, the co-editor in chief of DWF and an FSU marketing major.

The publication has closed staff applications for this semester, but you can still reach out to pitch your amazing ideas for the magazine. Even if you have no interest in working directly with fashion and beauty, still support this magazine at Madison Social in Collegetown on Wednesday, Feb. 16. From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., when you mention DWF at the bar, tips will go toward funding the magazine.

HER CAMPUS

Are you or any writers you know looking for a community of strong women to support each other in your professional writing journeys? Her Campus at FSU serves as one of the top sources of news, entertainment, and style for students. The online publication is always looking for tips and insider information on the latest trends. You will have to wait for next semester to join the staff, however, so follow @hercampusfsu to stay updated on openings, deadlines, and upcoming events.

 

Madison Maley is an English major, on the editing, writing, and media track, with a minor in Communications.

Follow the English department on Instagram @fsuenglish; on Facebook facebook.com/fsuenglishdepartment/; and Twitter, @fsu_englishdept