He’s Studying Creative Writing for Free in the U.S., Here’s How

[Ayodeji adebayo]

Everyone knows someone who has left Nigeria in search of better opportunities. 1,000 Ways to Japa shares real stories of Nigerians pursuing their dreams abroad — and this time, we meet Madu, 25, who swapped a Chemistry degree for a fully funded MFA in Creative Writing in the United States.

From Chemistry to Creative Writing
Madu’s path wasn’t straightforward. After spending years in Chemistry during his undergraduate studies, he realised the career opportunities and financial rewards in Nigeria were limited. Meanwhile, he had been writing for over a decade, freelancing and exploring his passion.

“During a nine-month academic strike, I spent a lot of time on LinkedIn and discovered marketing. I realised my skills in copywriting, content writing, and research could translate into a remote career,” Madu explains.

This period of exploration helped him build a strong foundation in writing and content creation — skills that would later play a key role in his MFA applications.

Discovering the MFA Route
Madu’s interest in structured writing programs began around 2021, after conversations with other Nigerian writers. He realised it was possible to pursue a master’s in Creative Writing, even without a Literature background.

The process involved extensive research on programs, funding options, and African writers’ experiences navigating MFA courses. By the time he started applying, he had a clear picture of what it would take.

Navigating Applications, Funding, and Visa
Applying for an MFA isn’t just about passion — it’s strategic. Many U.S. schools offer fully funded programs, which cover tuition in exchange for teaching or research assistantships over two to three years.

For Madu, the challenge was standing out as a STEM-background applicant. He joined an advanced writers’ fellowship through SprinNG, which helped him refine his writing samples, cover letters, personal statements, and academic CVs.

“Application fees were around $50–$70 per school. I focused on programs offering fee waivers but still paid a few out-of-pocket. Recommendation letters were tricky too, since most young Nigerian writers are self-taught. I reached out to people familiar with my growth in writing and marketing.”

Every statement of purpose was carefully tailored, with attention to school-specific word limits and requirements. By November, he had submitted most applications, and by March, responses began arriving — rejections at first, then acceptances that lifted his spirits.

Once accepted, Madu navigated the visa process using the I-20 document provided by his school — a stage he found both exciting and frustrating, as it was out of his control.

Advice for Aspiring MFA Applicants
Madu’s guidance for anyone applying to MFA programs is clear:

Focus on your writing samples and essays. Quality matters more than quantity.

Find a community. Join workshops or writing groups to stay accountable.

Research programs thoroughly. Consider faculty, location, and how welcoming the area is to international students.

Don’t overlook smaller programs. Sometimes, less “elite” schools offer environments where you can thrive academically and personally.

“If you’re applying to five schools, make sure you’d genuinely be happy at any of them. Comfort and fit matter more than prestige.”

Life in the U.S. So Far
Madu arrived in Tennessee in August 2025, two weeks before classes began, giving him time to settle in. He notes the small but striking differences: constant electricity, quiet neighborhoods, and the absence of generator noise.

Life is rigorous but rewarding. Weekly reading and response assignments keep him busy, while campus life, sports, and events offer social balance.

“Sometimes I step out and realise almost no one looks like me — it can feel strange. I miss Nigerian food like ewedu and amala, even garri now feels special. But the resources here, like campus libraries, make studying much easier,” he shares.

On a happiness scale, Madu ranks his life at an eight out of ten. Structure, support, and opportunities have made his transition smoother, though he admits homesickness is real.

A Leap Worth Taking
Madu’s story is a testament to following passion, even when it means leaving behind a conventional path.

“Leaving Chemistry for writing was scary, but the MFA gave me structure, mentorship, and resources I wouldn’t have had otherwise. For any Nigerian writer considering this path: plan, research, and persevere. It’s worth it.”

[Author]

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