Karen Lu, Yale University

Just because they’re not real doesn’t mean that they can’t be a source of consolation or contentment.

Karen Lu, Yale University

The website, affectionately known as AO3, has redefined the way fan fiction is cataloged and created and has reinvigorated the discourse surrounding the nature of fandom.

Audrey Martin, Boston University

Whether you want to be a prestigious journalist or write the next bestselling fantasy novel, these tips will help you build a following.

Kayla Johnson, Bradley University

Using the small publishing platform, the ‘After’ author was able to make a name for herself — and at the same time, raise the possibility that others could do the same.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

Twitter extends beyond news about celebrities; it’s the perfect platform for microfiction, micropoetry and other creative writing.

Janani Mangai Srinivasan, Wake Forest University

It’s time people start taking the genre seriously.

Karunya Bhramasandra, Stanford University

The final scene of the BBC series broke hearts, but the fanbase has coped by creating its own fan fiction and videos — much of it incredibly popular.

Angel Lin, University of California, Santa Barbara

Fan fiction is adding a few more dimensions to a character many felt was left underdeveloped.

Meredith Day, Davidson College

Fans deserve more credit for their art, especially as fan works move into the mainstream.

Courtney Taylor, Northeast Lakeview College

You may encounter a few pre-pubescent “One Direction” fantasies, but the world of fanfic has a lot to offer the budding novelist.