In this course, students will gain a deeper understanding of contemporary fiction through analyzing short stories and participating in workshop. This course will place equal emphasis on generative writing and close reading. In the first weeks of the semester, we will work on “scaffolding” exercises, taking time to review and bolster our knowledge of the basic components of fiction. The bulk of the course will be workshop, in which students will read and constructively critique each other’s stories, and discussions of student presentations based on assigned stories. The semester will culminate in a final portfolio with a revision statement.

In this course, students will gain a deeper understanding of contemporary fiction through analyzing short stories and participating in workshop. This course will place equal emphasis on generative writing and close reading. In the first weeks of the semester, we will work on “scaffolding” exercises, taking time to review and bolster our knowledge of the basic components of fiction. The bulk of the course will be workshop, in which students will read and constructively critique each other’s stories, and discussions of student presentations based on assigned stories. The semester will culminate in a final portfolio with a revision statement.

Prerequisite: By application only.

Participating within The Cypress Dome requires at least two in-person semesters (fall 2026 and spring 2027) at UCF. Please visit our website to apply. Applications are due March 15th and require a resume and a reference from a UCF instructor. If you have any questions or encounter any issues, contact the director, Professor Kianna Greene (kianna.greene@ucf.edu).

The Cypress Dome is UCF’s undergraduate literary journal run for students and by students, published annually by The Cypress Dome Society.  Established in 1989, The Cypress Dome’s primary objective has been elevating student voices through the publication of poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and visual art. Every part of the process from reading submissions, copyediting, designing, producing, and promoting the journal is done by a group of twenty students in a two-semester long commitment. Students of any major or skillset are encouraged to apply, as The Cypress Dome gives experience in editing, graphic design, advertising, promotions, and more!