Here at Express Media, we are so happy-sad to say goodbye to our wonderful intern for the 2019 Deakin University Nonfiction Prize, Mikaela Williams!

Throughout her time with us, Mikaela has supported us to successfully coordinate and present the prize. 

As a part of her send off, we sat down for a chat with Mikaela and nibbled on a couple of doughnuts (Thanks Mikaela!)

 

What was the most surprising thing about being the Deakin University Nonfiction Prize intern?

I’ve been continually surprised by the huge amount of industry knowledge I’ve gained during my time as the Deakin University Nonfiction Prize Intern. It’s been a really rewarding experience and I’ve developed skills that I never had before.

What’s your favourite thing about working in the Wheeler Centre and Express Media office?

The environment is very welcoming. Everyone is incredibly helpful and supportive at EM and the Wheeler Centre. 

What are some of the things you learnt in your time being the Deakin University Nonfiction Prize intern?

Just how much work goes into developing, managing, and orchestrating a writing prize. From the writers themselves to the caterers, the process is incredibly complex!

What were some of your highlights of the Prize experience?

The whole experience has been rewarding but a definite highlight was being able to sit in with the shortlist during their masterclasses. Watching them discuss and workshop was a big highlight.

What kind of writers and writing are you most drawn to and why?

I think I’m drawn to writers that have something to say but don’t necessarily want to say it. Writers like Jeanette Winterson and Deborah Levy who present their stories through layers. I think when you read work from writers that are a little guarded, a little ambiguous. In an introspective way it creates space to interpret their work however you see fit. Nothing has to be at face value with writers like them.

What do you hope to do after the Deakin University Nonfiction Prize internship?

Honestly, right now I just want to get this Masters out of the way. Writing that last part of a thesis is like pulling teeth. In terms of the BIG things, I’m working on a novel concept I’d love to really pin down, develop and eventually have published. 

What would the title of your own memoir be?

I don’t know what I’m doing

By M. Williams

 

Mikaela is a writer newly based in Melbourne, Victoria. She has spent the last two years living, studying and working in Busan, South Korea. She is a current Deakin student studying her Masters of Writing and Literature, with a particular interest in surrealist literature. She likes dadaist fiction and drinking copious amounts of tea.