Profile - Kathryn Kysar

Instructor Profile

Meet Kathryn Kysar
Instructor of English

Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing in Poetry, Wichita State University; Bachelors of Arts (BA) in English and Anthropology (minor in Sociology), Hamline University; Post-degree coursework at University of Pennsylvania, University of Minnesota, and Bemidji State University

Question and Answer

  • Question

    What is your approach to teaching?

    Answer

    I love empowering my students to express their thoughts and feelings in writing and discover new worlds and ideas through literature.

  • Question

    Would you list some recent accomplishments?

    Answer

    Prof. Kysar is the recipient of a 2024 Minnesota State Arts Board Individual Artist Grant for creative nonfiction. Her writing has recently been published in Hayden's Ferry Review, The Healing Muse, Literary Mama, Pinyon, Sequestrum, Tributaries, and literary magazines and the anthology In the Tempered Darkness: Poets Transcending Elegy. She has served on panels at the Association of Writers and Writing Programs and NonfictioNow conferences, and her poetry has been featured in art exhibits with colleague Laura Migliorino.

  • Question

    What inspires you as a teacher?

    Answer

    I am inspired by good books, the joy of the writing process, and the "aha!" moment when a concept becomes clear for students. I enjoy helping students shape their futures by exploring artistic and vocational career options.

  • Question

    What makes your curriculum interesting or valuable to students?

    Answer

    Students enjoy experiential learning, so my classes explore ideas with films, guest speakers, and field trips as well as books and discussion. My classes often take a global perspective of contemporary topics and literatures.

  • Question

    What are some ways that you help students succeed when they need extra help?

    Answer

    I work one-on-one with students in my office brainstorming ideas, reviewing their writing, and editing for clarify and correctness. I am available via phone, email, and Skype to ensure that my online students receive the same support. We make use of our wonderful writing centers too.

Fun Facts

  • Fun Fact #1

    I love hiking in the woods of northern Minnesota.

  • Fun Fact #2

    I once took the Trans-Siberian railway from Beijing to Moscow.

  • Fun Fact #3

    I have worked at schools in China, Denmark, and Tanzania.

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