Oakwood Magazine - Call for Creative Submissions
SDSU's literary and arts journal accepting poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and visual art from all student majors through January 31.
Oakwood Magazine is SDSU's annual literary and arts journal dedicated to creative writing and visual art. The publication has been serving the campus community for over 50 years and is currently accepting submissions through January 31. The magazine is open to students of all majors, not just those studying English or art. Each spring, Oakwood publishes work by SDSU students alongside writers and artists from the broader Great Plains region. The magazine is produced through a publishing practicum course where students serve as editors and designers, reviewing submissions and shaping the final publication. Faculty advisers emphasize that the biggest barrier to submission is often hesitation rather than lack of talent. They encourage students to submit work regardless of perfection, noting that strong submissions are characterized by emotional impact and clear intention rather than technical perfection. The advisers stress that rejection is not personal and is part of the learning process for emerging writers and artists. Oakwood also serves as a creative outlet for students across various disciplines including engineering, nursing, and agriculture. Past issues dating back 50 years are archived online through SDSU's Open PRAIRIE digital repository, creating a time capsule of regional thought and experience. The publication culminates in a free public launch event each spring where contributors read their work and attendees receive complimentary copies of the magazine.