By Sarah R. Schwartz ’10

Felicia Maisey, a graduate student in the M.A. in English program, had two works published in Euphemism Magazine’s 2010 Special Edition, a collection of poetry, fiction, art, and music that celebrate acceptance in the GLBTA community. The publication included her short stories “The Last Season” and “The Opportunity.”

Maisey’s literary success began in summer 2009 when she attended the Scottish Universities’ International Summer School (SUISS) at Edinburgh University through Arcadia’s College of Global Studies (CGS).

As part of the program, students are asked if they would like to submit a piece from their final portfolios to the SUISS publication Northern Light, a collection of work from the SUISS Creative Writing course that offers students the opportunity to publish work produced during their stay in Edinburgh. Maisey’s work was selected for publication.

“The program was very cathartic on many levels and helped me to repair some very deep-seeded and painful memories through the writing process,” she says. “Having my work published helped me to feel like I have more to give from a writing standpoint, and I have been seeking new endeavors ever since.”

Maisey had just received news that her submissions were to be published in Northern Light when she opened an e-mail from Dr. Richard A. Wertime, Professor of English and Director of Graduate Studies in English and the Humanities. The e-mail encouraged Maisey to send her work to Illinois State University’s Euphemism Magazine. She submitted two short stories, and both were published.

“Arcadia’s faculty is extremely diligent in helping us to promote ourselves as writers, and students consistently receive e-mails about opportunities to get our work out there,” she says.

This type of support has been crucial in Maisey’s personal and professional development. Having attended several schools since 2001, her work at Arcadia has proved to be the most fruitful. Now Maisey is validated and ready to take on her pursuit of becoming a professor and professional writer.

“Through my experiences here, I have found what moves me, what inspires me, and what I can really do as a writer. At last, I feel like the path I am on truly holds great meaning,” she says. “To that end, Arcadia University has been like a best friend, pushing me forward and letting me know that I can do anything I set my mind to doing.”

Maisey’s pieces “The Opportunity” and “The Last Season” are available to read online. Access Euphemism’s 2010 Special Edition.