Hey everyone! It’s Solenn again, with a list of things to do as an English major in Iowa City. We are a UNESCO City of Literature, but the University of Iowa also offers a ton of opportunities for students in its top-notch program. Here are some things I’ve enjoyed during my time here so far.

1. Working on a lit mag/attending launch parties: This is a great way to gain publishing experience and make friends! Or, you can submit your work for a chance at publication! Even if you do not want to do either, going to the launch parties are a cool way to support your peers and see what amazing work they have done!
2. Author Readings: There are multiple readings every week, so there is something for everyone! Faculty do readings/craft talks, visiting authors come read at Prairie Lights, and graduate students in the Writers’ Workshop read their work as well. These are fun to go to since you can discover a new favorite book or chat with a writer!
3. Prairie Lights: Our local bookstore that hosts readings and has a wide variety of books to purchase. There is a cafe on the top floor with reading nooks or a great place to write and study.
4. Sidekick: On the west of campus is another book store that does midnight book launches and also has coffee! A great place to hang out as well.
5. Literary Walk: This takes you everywhere in Iowa City and explores some top locations and famous writers who have spent time in Iowa City!
6. Book Festival: Every fall, this is a place to buy books, attend readings, and meet people from all over who have a shared love of writing and reading.
7. Poetry Slam: Once a month, you can attend a poetry slam as an audience member or a poet! This is a great way to meet members of the community outside the University, and to share some of your own work!
8. Writing Groups: Start your own, or there is Writers Room, a community that meets a few times a month based on a genre of writing.
9. Book Clubs: There are many on campus if you are interested!!
10. English Society: Every Wednesday, this club meets to do literary trivia, talk about lit mags, or simply socialize!
11. Alpha Tau Iota: The English Honors Society on campus. You can travel to their annual conference and present your work, or they do game nights and industry talks/readings!

These are just a few ways I’ve gotten involved, and I hope this helps!

-Solenn