Teresa
Forrest

After completing an MA in Creative Writing in 2023, Teresa Forrest has gone on to publish the poetry pamphlet The Stories in Between. Teresa talks to us about why she chose to study at NTU, the challenges that she has faced, and shares her plans for the future.

Why did you choose to study at NTU?

I chose to study at NTU primarily because of the recommendation from a good friend who had already completed the MA in Creative Writing, and I was reassured of its suitability for mature students. I was also impressed with the calibre of the lecturers on the course; in fact, I already had some of their poetry books on my bookshelf. I felt that I would, therefore, benefit from their expertise and guidance. I appreciated the fact that I could study part-time.

What did you learn – both inside and outside of lectures?

When I began my MA, I lacked confidence. However, thanks to encouragement from fellow students, support from my lecturers, and invaluable assistance from the library staff, my confidence grew, as did my grades. This is because I learned to ask for help when I needed it. I honed my writing skills on the course, thanks to the guidance and feedback I received from my tutors.

So many things make me smile when I think back. Firstly, the people I met on the course, some of whom I am still friends with. Having a poem published in The North alongside my tutor Rory is another significant moment. Reading some of my poems at Five Leaves bookshop, as part of the Nottingham Creative Writing Hub, alongside poets Togara Muzanenhamo and Becky Cullen was amazing. But most of all, having my first poetry pamphlet, which formed part of my dissertation, published by Five Leaves Publications felt like a huge achievement.

What does your current day involve?

After a long period of bereavement, I am beginning to write again. I have rejoined a writing group, The Writer Highway, and plan to submit my poems to magazines in the new year.

What attracted you to this field of work?

My first degree was in Sociology, and I have worked in different capacities as a residential social worker and a Disability Support Worker. However, my passion for writing, particularly poetry, has always been a significant part of my life. Some of my writing is about people who have been othered by society and these are included in my pamphlet. Realising my dream of becoming a published poet, thanks in part to undertaking the MA, feels remarkable.

What challenges have you faced?

My biggest challenges have undoubtedly been a series of bereavements before, during, and after the MA course. The pastoral support I received from my personal tutor was exceptional and really helped me to persevere. I’ve learned that if you stop writing due to life circumstances, it doesn’t mean you’re not a writer, as the poems and stories will be ready when you are.

What have been the highlights and biggest challenges of your career so far?

Giving up my daytime job to become a writer still feels like a huge challenge. My poetry pamphlet launch alongside another NTU alumna was very memorable, as so many fellow students came to support me.

What are your plans for the future?

When I feel ready, I will engage in further public readings from my pamphlet The Stories in Between. Another goal is to publish short stories and flash fiction. I would also like to teach poetry, possibly to beginners, in collaboration with a friend from the course.

If you had a time machine, what would you go back and tell yourself at uni?

Be more confident and enjoy the journey.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our alumni community?

I’ll share the advice a friend recently gave me – just put one foot in front of the other and you’ll get there.