Hometown: Wappingers Falls, N.Y., though I live in Providence, R.I.

Grad Program/Degree: I’m in the Creative Writing MFA with a focus on Poetry

Undergraduate Details: I have a BFA with a concentration in Graphic Design and a minor in Curatorial Studies from Arcadia. Class of 2017!

Why Arcadia? I chose Arcadia because of their study abroad opportunities and small classes. In my undergrad and graduate time here, I’ve studied in four countries!

Hobbies: I work in an escape room, so I’m really into puzzles and problem solving. I’m always thinking about design and love exploring museums and then chatting with people about the behind the scenes! I also enjoy hiking, rock climbing, photography, and printmaking! When I have time I enjoy performing my poetry and have performed at the Rhode Island State House as well as competing in local slams and I’ve featured at a few different poetry events!

Post-grad Plans: Part of this degree is developing a ready-to-publish manuscript, so the first goal is to start sending that out to publishers and trying to get a collection into the world! I’m already working with the professors of my program to maybe come back next year and teach some short lessons to incoming MFA students! I’m hoping to then get into teaching at the college level and working in my local community to help build programs for young poets to hone their writing skills. I’d like to work on building a performance space for young poets that lets them learn about that aspect of poetry while designing workshops and other opportunities that build confidence in writing, performing, and just in general!

Sykes Bidwell published three poems, titled “May Burials of December Bodies,” “We’re Going to the Store,” and “Again, Let Me Tell You What I Know About Breathing,” with the Hudson Valley Writer’s Guild. You can read them here.