ICE Creative Writing Mst students win Cambridge literary prizes

Each year, the University of Cambridge’s Lucy Cavendish College hosts an annual prize ceremony, in celebration of their student’s literary talent. The prizes see an impressive collection of short stories from all disciplines, showcasing the talented outputs of the students.

This year, four out of the five short listers for the Florence Staniforth Student Fiction Prize are learners on the Institute of Continuing Education’s Master of Studies (MSt) in Creative Writing. Of those shortlisted, Sarah Ibbetson went on to win the award.

Sarah, who spent her career as a nighttime taxi driver, and is now pursuing the MSt, won the Florence Staniforth Student Fiction prize for her short story titled ‘A True Romance’.  She says: “I am absolutely honoured to be included among such splendid writers, and so glad I’m part of Lucy Cavendish. What a happy thing it has been.”

Fellow short lister Emma Perfect also won an award that evening; the Stott Alternative Futures Prize. Emma has a journalism career and now runs a copywriting agency. Her winning story ‘AI Gore’ is narrated by an algorithm that has been created to reduce humanities impact on the planet by any means. She is currently in her second year on the Master’s and told us: "I'm so honoured to have won this prize, and also to have been included with the wonderful writers on the Florence Staniforth shortlist. It really shows how much the Creative Writing MSt has helped to build my skills and confidence. It was lovely that Dr Yvonne Battle-Felton came along to support us on the night as well."

Short lister, Dave R. Christiansen, from Utah, is currently studying on the programme. His short story ‘Plain Jane’ is told in "flashes" about young love in a fast food restaurant, chronicled by the journey of a chicken sandwich from raw meat to crumbs on a plate. He shared his thoughts on being shortlisted for this award with ICE: “"Wow! What a stunning honour to be included in a group of such amazing authors. I've lost three buttons already!"

Shortlisted alongside Dave was Sade Fawehinmi Olapade-Olaopa, a chemical engineer, scientist, and writer.

Academic Director, Dr Yvonne- Battle Felton shares her congratulations to all of the shortlisted writers: “It's quite an achievement! The Creative Writing MSt team could not be prouder of all four students who made the shortlist!

 I'm so proud of you for entering and for making the shortlist and I can't wait to read what you write next.

I couldn't be happier for Sarah Ibbetson winner of the Florence Staniforth Student Fiction Prize and Emma Perfect, winner of the Stott Alternative Futures Prize.”