Michigan Humanities is thrilled to celebrate 20 years of Poetry Out Loud (POL) in our state and across the nation. In recognition of this milestone, we’ve invited Michigan POL alumni to share their stories and insight into their experience with the program.
Our next featured POL alumnus is Jared Peremans, the second runner-up at the 2025 Michigan Poetry Out Loud State Finals.
Where are you now in your educational career? What’s next for you?
I’m a senior in high school, but since I’m in the Early Middle College program, I’ll do a fifth year at Lake Michigan College to get an associate’s degree. I’m going to study at Andrews University for my bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
What made you curious about Poetry Out Loud at your school? What did you value most about your Poetry Out Loud experience at your school and the State Finals?
I did my own poetry reading in my Honors College writing class, and my teacher commented that I should do Poetry Out Loud. I brushed it off, but once the date for tryouts came around, I was pushed to do it. I never really knew about this talent until I actually practiced Emily Brontë’s “Ah! Why The Dazzling Sun.” That’s what I valued most about Poetry Out Loud—I was able to tap into something so emotional and be free. The workshop at the event only reinforced that fact, as everyone was dressed in their own way—saying and expressing themselves for themselves. Like I said: it was freeing.
What advice would you share with a student or teacher considering Poetry Out Loud?
I regret not doing Poetry Out Loud in previous years. I’d want to try out every year if I could. I wouldn’t want anyone to miss this opportunity if they feel like they can speak powerfully or tell a short story in writing. Don’t hold back, either! If you feel like a line should be said broadly, do it broadly! Free your mind of others’ thoughts and spit your truth.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this blog do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities or Michigan Humanities.