Jeremy Hubbard

MA Creative Writing

1. Tell us about yourself

I’m Jeremy (Jem K) Hubbard and I am retired from paid employment – I can, at last, spend more of my time on creative writing.

2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?

The creative writing workshops – they were nearly always lively, engaged and enjoyable, and they provided me with some very useful support and feedback on creative work from tutors and fellow students alike, and plenty of opportunity for me to provide similar towards others’ efforts (through which I have discovered how much helping others with their creative output can and does help you with your own).

3. What has been your favourite job?

Commissioning Officer for the Rosie Maternity Hospital (Addenbrooke’s). Although this was many years ago, I still feel a small flush of pride whenever I drive past this wonderful facility for the women and babies and families of Cambridge, thrilled to have been able to play a key role in its establishment. I really enjoyed working with such a wide range of Health Professionals (e.g. midwives, obstetricians, nurses, doctors, managers and administrators) striving for the most cost-effective creative solutions to meet their many requirements. The teamworking and liaison needed was demanding but hugely satisfying.

4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?

Inclusive.

5. How did your time at ARU help you?

It has improved my self-confidence with my work, helping me to understand how to unpick the riddles and apply the processes of creative writing.

6. What did you love about your chosen course?

The enjoyable experience of meeting and working with the course tutors and fellow students there has opened me up to new ideas and approaches, providing me with a more secure self-belief. Thanks to them, I now have a greater confidence in what I am trying to achieve.

7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?

Don’t edit yourself out of any opportunity.

8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?

How to find publishing opportunities (the course touched on this, and certain tutors provided some links, guidance and encouragement, but I think a whole lecture dedicated to this – and maybe even a follow-up lecture – would’ve been of greater help).

9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?

David Bowie, and published poet (and friend) Michael Laskey (my career as a writer, that is).

10. What advice would you give your younger self?

Do the MA Creative Writing course as soon as you can – don’t prevaricate, you’re probably not good enough without it!

11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.

My wife Diane and I do ballroom and Latin American dancing, and we jointly captain a bowls team for the Coton Bowls Club. Also, for a period of several months, we once had eight cats living with us – mi-aow!

12. What's next?

I am working to publish a book of poetry, a book of short stories and a novel – the poetry, hopefully, next year.