2016 Masters Writing Retreat

Another productive UPC writing retreat has come to a close. From 30 August to 2 September, a group of Masters students enjoyed the tranquility of Vaughan Park Retreat Centre as they churned through a phenomenal amount of thesis writing and editing.

Retreat Aug-Sep 2016

Here’s some of the feedback from students who attended the retreat:

“I would like to thank you for organising the Writers’ Retreat at Vaughan Park. During the residency I was able to use the long periods of time afforded to me to write and most importantly, to think long uninterrupted thoughts. This in itself was amazing; usually I have to write (while answering the phone calls that keep the financial side of our life moving) and then at 3pm the kids come home from school. I am grateful that through the retreat, I was able to complete approximately 4,000 publishable words towards my exegesis. The experience has taught me that moving forward, I need to seek further opportunities for the peace and space I found at Vaughan Park, so I can continue to follow my thoughts through to completion and onto the page. Thank you again for this special time. It has been truly wonderful in so many positive ways.” Donna

“This great opportunity at the AUT postgraduate writing retreat combined expert and specific guidance, fellowship, abundant nurturing meals and an efficient and pleasing facility to foster my academic progress. The balance of work achieved and time for reflection and repose is a productive, humane and rare formula. Thank you!” Kate

“Thank you very much for this opportunity.  I got a lot of writing and editing done.  I really enjoyed the opportunity to discuss my research with people from outside of my discipline – this really helped me with clarifying my methodology and how to bring my subjective self into my introduction.” Anonymous

“Aside from getting some writing done, the writers’ retreat organised by the UPC gave me peace, clarity, and tips for moving forward with my research. Now, I continue with my writing with renewed sense of focus.” Segfrey

The next retreat (for doctoral and masters students this time) will take place from 7 – 10 November. Applications close 30 September, so fill out the application form below and get it back to the Postgraduate Centre if you’re keen to attend. Remember, the retreats are free to you – so you’ve nothing to lose by applying!

UPC Postgraduate Writers’ Retreat Application

About Graduate Research School (Auckland University of Technology)

The Auckland University of Technology Graduate Research School offers support and resources to all postgraduate students at AUT. Come and visit us on the 5th floor of the WU building.

2 thoughts on “2016 Masters Writing Retreat

  1. I highly recommend this peaceful retreat to anyone who needs to create a quiet space away from their regular life to write. As I have never had such an experience before, I was amazed at what I was able to achieve over the four days. A big thanks to the organisers and sponsors of this event for providing such a wonderful opportunity.

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