Molly Giles

Molly Giles is, hands down, the best creative writing instructor I've ever taken in my life (I've had a total of eight thus far). In this course, we were expected to produce three short stories (or novelists could submit chapters) for critique. That is just the right amount for a semester's worth of work...not too much, but not enough to be considered "slacking," either. Moreover, Molly's comments on returned manuscripts were detailed, and it was clear she would take the time to read a manuscript more than once in order to respond to it intelligently. In class, Molly has a way of critiquing without making the student feel belittled. Some creative writing instructors I have known can't resist the opportunity to make fun of writing they see as "bad," but Molly resists that temptation and ALWAYS finds several good things to say about whatever piece the class happens to be looking at. This is not to say she's all "warm fuzzies" and doesn't give honest critiques. She does point out what needs work and goes right to whatever is troubling a piece; she simply has a way of doing it without making you feel like a dork. I cannot recommend her enough.

Molly Giles is one of the best teachers at SFSU. As a first semester graduate student in creative writing, I found this class to be an excellent beginning to my graduate career. The first two weeks are spent bringing in creative work that needs a brief polishing up. From that point on, students are asked to turn in three stories a semester and to provide thorough and insightful critiques of their fellow students. Molly demands that all stories be turned in on time to become accustomed to the rigors of meeting deadlines as in the publishing field. Her insight into the short stories not only amazes the students, but also makes you want to become a better writer. There is no text in this class, and the grade revolves around your critique of the other students and the quality of your work. All subjects of writing are acceptable, but sloppy work will not be tolerated. I met with Molly during her office hours and found her to be very comfortable and warm. She offered advice about my chosen field, classes to take next semester, and briefly chatted with me about the class. Molly Giles has published many works of fiction and provides brilliant insight into the world of creative writing. She is a teacher that I will continue to take at SFSU.