Each week we will be connecting with our contributors showing where they have been, where they are now, and what’s up for the future.
Name: Amber Rogers
Title of Piece published in Sweet: Coiled
Issue: 9.1
Amber teaches composition and creative nonfiction writing at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. “I’m still challenging and engaging students through their writing processes. As for myself, I’m in a place of healing. After a year of personal loss, I’m spending this year writing to grow and heal.” You can find out more about her on her website.
What are some major accomplishments you have had since your Sweet publication?
I have recently been focusing more on the effectiveness of hybrid models in the composition and creative nonfiction classrooms. I have since presented at the Conference on College Composition and Communication this past spring on the topic.
Can you tell us about a current/ongoing project that you’re excited about?
I am currently part of a community of practice through my university, where I am pushed by my colleagues to write and submit more. I have two essays that are currently being polished by this committee.
Who is your favorite author?
I think my childhood heart will always adore Louis May Alcott and her characters in Little Women.
What is your favorite poem/essay/book?
Favorite essay of the moment (that I now have the pleasure to teach) would have to be “White Horse” by Sarah Baird.
What inspires you to write?
I write to understand my own life and the people in it. There’s also a simple “high” I get off of writing, especially further on in the process when the sentences are building themselves, complicating and evolving.
What is your favorite sweet?
My favorite sweet is my mother’s Red Velvet cake. It has a roasted walnut cream cheese frosting, and, even though I’m in my thirties, she still dutifully makes it for me for my birthday. No link to the recipe; it’s a family secret!
I checked with Bon Appétit and they didn’t list your mother as the best in America, but since it’s a family secret, I’m guessing that is why they deferred to Macrina Bakery in Kent, Washington. I’m sure it doesn’t even compare to your mom’s!
Thank you, Amber, for taking the time to reconnect with us. We look forward to seeing more of your work in the future!
