Kelley Engelbrecht

Creative Nonfiction MFA '23

“As a writer, when I began the program, I thought I’d hone my skills as a nonfiction writer — instead, I’m graduating empowered to merge genres, not only as an essayist but also as a poet and novelist,” says Kelley Engelbrecht, a recent Creative Nonfiction MFA recipient.

What would you say has been the most surprising thing you learned at Columbia? 

As a writer, when I began the program, I thought I’d hone my skills as a nonfiction writer—instead, I’m graduating empowered to merge genres, not only as an essayist but also as a poet and novelist. When I became a parent a year into my time at Columbia, I learned, to my surprise, that motherhood would stretch and strengthen my capabilities as a writer rather than hold me back.

What individuals or programs at Columbia were helpful to you in reaching your goal of graduating? 

Pegeen Reichert Powell taught me the importance of empathy in the classroom. Lisa Fishman opened my writing practice to the precision and power of poetry. Jim DeRogatis empowered me to pursue any idea, big or small, and inspired me with his steadfast focus to find the heartbeat of every story. My thesis advisor, Tony Trigillio, showed me how kindness and collaboration could transform the creative process. And finally, when I didn’t know how I’d balance caring for a newborn and continuing my studies, the English and Creative Writing Department department was committed to finding ways for me to remain an active participant in the program. Without that critical support, I don’t know if I would have been able to complete my MFA.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I’ll be writing and submitting for publication! I also plan on continuing to do work in branding and advertising. I was a copywriter and creative director before enrolling at Columbia.

If you were going to sum up your experience at Columbia in one sentence, what would you say?

An unexpected, but transformative three years that changed everything.