The Writing University conducts a series of interviews with writers while they are in Iowa City participating in the various University of Iowa writing programs. We sit down with authors to ask about their work, their process and their descriptions of home.
Today we are speaking with Kendin Scheitlin, a UI undergraduate majoring in Cinema.
Kendin Scheitlin is a fourth-year cinema student graduating from Iowa in the fall of 2025 with a degree in cinema. From Mount Pleasant, Iowa, Kendin is a member of the student organization, Women in Film. Her works include a short film titled ‘Sacrifice’ that explored the story of a man haunted by memories of his past. In her free time, Kendin enjoys film photography and biking.
1. Can you tell us a little bit about what brought you to the University of Iowa?
Growing up it seemed like every time I went to a family gathering, the Hawkeyes were always on the TV. Football, basketball, you name it, everyone in my family was rooting for the hawks. I watched my older cousins graduate high school and the first university on their list was the University of Iowa (though some went to Iowa State, we try not to hold it against them). So, it only seemed fitting that I ended up at The University of Iowa. Iowa City was also a factor of what brought me to the University, having spent time in Iowa City during the summer visiting cousins, who showed me around campus and downtown Iowa City. I only applied to one university because I was 100% sure I wanted to attend the University of Iowa!
2. What is the inspiration for your work right now?
I would say, the world around me. Obviously as you may know there is so much political turmoil, as well as so many different things going on culturally, not just in the U.S but all around the world. I take heavy inspiration from what is happening right now. Being able to create art or write about something that directly relates to the world around me currently makes me feel like I have a special place in history.
3. Do you have a daily writing routine?
I wish I did! I’m so busy with my course load that I barley have time to relax sometimes. Though, I do try and journal whenever I can before bed.
4. What are you reading right now? Are you reading for research or pleasure?
Right now, I’m reading two different books, the first is The Secret History by Donna Tartt, which I’m reading for pleasure, when I get the chance. The second is The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones which I’m listening to the audiobook of. I try and listen to audiobooks that cover topics of history, or important figures, just so I can widen my knowledge of the history that made our world.
5. Tell us about where you are from - what are some favorite details you would like to share about your home?
I am from Mount Pleasant, Iowa, a smallish town forty-five minutes south-east of Iowa City. When I have the time to go back home, and when the weather is nice my mom, dad, our family dog, Charlie, and I like to go on short hikes in a small park called Oakland Mills. There are short trails that we walk that also lead down to a river called the Skunk River. We skip rocks, look for fossils and try and find muscles that wash ashore. Some other small gems that are my favorite are the old Victoriana houses that line old brick roads!
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Thank you!