Kirsten writes: 'What better than to be able to sit and talk about writing with ten other literature-obsessed people in a room with a view? (An excellent view at that – the city of Wellington and its harbour, the long ridged back of the Orongorongo ranges, and the changing cherry blossom tapping on the window. I mention the view because it remains a strong part of my memory of that year).

The Masters programme gave my classmates and myself a year to talk, argue and pick fine points about books we liked and those we didn't. We paid the same fine attention to each other’s writing. We encouraged each other. If you are serious about your writing then this is one of the best courses you can do to help develop your understanding and practice of writing.'

Bio: Kirsten McDougall is the author of three books, most recently the novel, She's a Killer. She's been awarded a Louis Johnson writers bursary, Michael King residency, and was the winner of the Sunday Star Times short story competition in 2021 for her story 'Walking Day'.

Read more:

• Te Herenga Waka University Press
• Kirsten's wiki page