On Feb. 5, many students and faculty members attended the Poets and Writers Open Mic Night held at it’s new location, Burrito Me, located on the corner of Main Street. Many spectators and participants came to watch and listen to people share a variety of poetry and literary talent.
Poets and Writers Society held their first open mic of the semester with a slight change of scenery. Liz Ahl, a member of the English Education faculty, and PSU Professor for creative writing courses, has been attending and reading poetry at nearly every open mic night. When asked about the vibe and friendliness of others during these events she replied, “It’s a great place for people that haven’t read in front of others before, to read for the first time.”
“There is always new people and material, which keeps it fresh and exciting. Everyone is friendly and having a good time,” said business manager for poets and writers Patrick O’Sullivan.
The support and overall acceptance of everyone was truly inspirational. Haley A. Sciola, President of poets and writers and the Centripetal literary magazine, has been encouraging people to share their writing for years, “why have words if you don’t feel comfortable using them?”
Open mic nights are a great way to express and teach yourself to be more comfortable with speaking in front of others. It gives you a chance to get feedback on your own writing and literary skills.
Not only is Poets and Writers Society in charge of the open mics at Burrito Me, they also are responsible for PSU’s own literary magazine called The Centripetal. Deadlines for the Centripetal submissions are on March 15, 2013.
You can submit up to four pieces of writing (up to 3000 words), and you can also submit four pieces of artwork. All in all, if a fun, relaxing getaway is what you are searching for, or just desire a chance to share something you have written, Open Mic Night would be a great place for you to start!