Vermont College of Fine Arts has long semesters, about 20 weeks long. We have breaks, about three or four weeks long, during December/January and June/July.
So what do I do during the semester break?
Family things.
This break I moved from China to Germany. We are exploring our new city.
Last December I went to Beijing and Xi'an.
I read. We get a list of books that the faculty will use in their lectures so I am reading those as well as three other assigned books for a discussion at residency. I also read all the manuscripts for my workshop group--there are ten of us, so that is about 25 stories because I am in a picture book workshop this time.
Also for this coming residency--I will give a presentation as part of the picture book panel. I am fine tuning it, putting finishing touches on my power point, giving my presentation to a few friends (over the computer) so I can see what I need to adjust.
I revise. I already revised several picture books using Uma Krishnaswami's response to my last packet, which included editorial notes and line edits.
I am also revising a novel, the one I drafted first semester.
I read for friends. I get to read a novel for a writing friend. The first draft even. I always enjoy reading books at the various stages and giving feedback. This will be fun.
During break I don't have packet deadlines and the pace is different. It is a time to recharge and read and write--
and look forward to Vermont.
My next semester starts soon: residency begins July 11th.
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2 comments:
You sure do A LOT In your breaks!
We didn't make it to X'ian when we lived in China but I want to go sometime (and to Harbin in the winter!)
Good luck with your presentation! Have a great semester!
I guess I did do a lot, didn't I.
Thanks. I'll let you know how my presentation went.
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