Since I have started working with Maya, I have come to realize that it is one of the most interesting publications I have ever had the opportunity to work for. After coming out of an eleven-year hibernation a few years ago, its small staff—led by Editor-in-Chief Ali Cahill—has spent endless hours dedicated to publishing only good writing. Maya gives Drexel students an outlet for their poetry, fiction, and photography.

For the first time in its history, Maya has decided to start hosting open-mic readings every term along with its usual release open-mic at the end of spring term. The first open-mic of the school year was held in the Creese Lounge on November 19th, 2007, with yours truly as the host. The event also had a bake sale offering goodies such as cookies, pumpkin crisp, and candy for only fifty cents a treat.

This open-mic was the first step for the newly-reinvented Maya to launch itself back into the Drexel community. I think we were successful. The event started small with only a few faculty members in attendance. However, by the end of the hour, the open-mic had attracted a solid audience.

After I read a few of my own pieces that Maya published last year, the stage was turned to Dr. Don Riggs, a professor in the English and Philosophy department. Riggs, caught slightly off-guard by being first to perform, didn't miss a beat as he energetically recited his hysterical poetry.

Matthew Snyder, a Drexel student with an adorable smile, stepped on stage next. He shocked the audience with his deep and sorrowful poetry. Eamon McIvor, another student, read a fiction piece he wrote. His story perfectly described the pre-teen anxieties and misconceptions we all had held once.

Ian Micir brought music to the event. He played his guitar and sang songs he wrote as a present for his father on Father's Day. One song depicted the uneasiness that parents feel when having to explain the birds and the bees to their children. Micir left the audience holding their sides.

Katrina Mitchell, a Drexel student working at the information desk during the open-mic, closed out the open-mic. Unable to leave the desk, I brought the microphone to her. Mitchell pulled out a binder full of her poetry and prose and finished the event with sweet love (and lust) poems.

The open-mic was just a taste of the work that makes Maya. It gave students the opportunity to not only read a good piece but to see it performed before them.

Keep an eye out for upcoming news and events about Maya including the next open-mic during the winter term. Students interested in joining Maya's staff or submitting work can send an e-mail to dsoMaya@drexel.edu. Maya's Round 2 submission deadline is April 1, 2008.