Jessica swapped Acting for Creative Writing in her first week at Uni, and never looked back. Now a published poet, she inspires others through creativity.
Jessica Sneddon was originally accepted onto the BA (Hons) Acting degree, but transferred onto the BA (Hons) English Literature & Creative Writing during her Induction Week. Since then, she has never looked back.
“I have always been creatively minded, enjoying acting, writing and performing,” Jessica said. “The course appealed to my love of generating work, as well as performing it. I was welcomed onto the course and instantly felt a part of the Creative Writing team.” Jessica said.
Since graduation, Jessica has focused on sending her work to poetry magazines and publishers, whilst further developing her writing techniques. Having received positive feedback early on, she has now had her poem ‘Bluebirds’ accepted into 'Tears in the Fence', Issue 67, published at the start of April 2018.
"As a Creative Writing student, it was invaluable to work with tutors with a range of specialist areas who could all offer practical, real life advice to myself as an aspiring poet. The support of these tutors has continued after my graduation; I am proud to have been, and continue to be, part of the wider UCLan community."
— BA (Hons) English Literature & Creative Writing & MA by Research in Creative Writing graduate
Encouraged by her early success, Jessica chose to return to the University to study a Masters Research degree in Creative Writing.
She said: “Prior to studying at the University I was not aware that postgraduate study would be an opportunity for me financially; my tutors were able to bring these possibilities to my attention. I was also actively encouraged to begin submitting my work for publication during my period of study which has set me in good stead for beginning my writing career beyond university." Jessica said.
Jessica completed her Masters by Research degree and graduated in December 2019. Afterwards, she was accepted onto the traineeship scheme at Wordsworth Grasmere and has worked as a permanent member of the team since 2022. Her duties involve creating engagement activities for visitors to the museum and Dove Cottage, encouraging visitors to respond creatively to the themes of the Wordsworths’ writing. "The activities I have introduced include a meditative nature walk, Noticing Nature, and a poetry-writing activity, Loose Leaf Poetry. I also deliver creative writing workshops and lectures to private groups." Jessica said.
Jessica continues to write poetry and has had poems published in 'Magma, Stand, Caught by the River, Ink Sweat and Tears and Tears in the Fence'. Additionally, she was selected to perform in a new poets showcase at Lancaster Litfest in 2024 and was longlisted for Nine Arches Press Primers series that same year. "It is really rewarding to be able to continue to develop new writing and have the opportunity to share it with audiences, I am excited to see what the future holds." she said.
