Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University’s student literary journal, “Something Else,” has earned a prestigious superior ranking in the Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines contest organized by The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).
This nationwide competition, initiated by NCTE to inspire educational institutions to cultivate literary magazines and honor the art of writing, featured 375 student magazines from 46 states and five countries this year.
Published annually by the JSU Writers’ Club, “Something Else” is a testament to students’ creative writing, editorial skills, and visual art and design work. Advised by Dr. Kimberly Southwick-Thompson, an accomplished poet and assistant professor of English, the journal has secured a notable place in the literary landscape. Dr. Southwick-Thompson, who also serves as the founder and editor of the literary arts journal “Gigantic Sequins,” expressed her joy, saying, “To see the students earn national recognition is such an honor.”
For those interested in obtaining a copy of “Something Else,” contact Dr. Southwick-Thompson at [email protected]. Additionally, the literary magazine is currently open for submissions for the 2024 edition. Writers can submit their work in the categories of poetry (no more than 50 lines), prose (no more than 2,500 words), drama (no more than 12 pages), and visual art (paintings, drawings, and other visual pieces – submit photos of the artwork) at [email protected] until February 1.
Moreover, the Writers’ Club is hosting a Valentine’s and Anti-Valentine’s Writing Contest until February 14. Writers can submit up to three entries, following the aforementioned categories, with a focus on the themes of love or heartbreak. The top three submissions in each category will be featured in the upcoming edition of “Something Else.”
Students interested in joining the Writers’ Club are encouraged to attend club meetings on Fridays from 2:30-4:30 p.m. in Merrill Hall, Room 368. This provides an excellent opportunity for aspiring writers to engage with like-minded peers and contribute to the vibrant literary community at Jacksonville State University.