Writing Classes and Community

Busy week with school and work picking up the pace... plus I'm trying to actually use my gym membership a bit.  I just have a quick tip for any of you who have resolved to write more or improve your writing this year.

A few years ago, way before I started my master's program, I found myself itching for a little writing instruction and academic thinking.  After a couple online searches, I discovered StoryStudio, a wonderful organization here in Chicago that offers tons of writing classes and other events, such as Write-a-Thons and seminars. 

I tried a one-night workshop to test the waters before signing up for Creative Writing I and Freelance Magazine Writing.  More recently, I attended a great Saturday session with a literary agent who explained the whole book publishing process to our group of about 20 people.  It was fascinating... and I came away from the event informed and inspired.  (If you want to learn more about how StoryStudio began, here's the full background story, straight from the founder and director!)

The studio has grown a bunch over the last couple years, and new classes are beginning next week as well as later this month.  Check out StoryStudio if you want to explore the writing world and establish a commitment, whether it is for a one-night workshop or an 8-week class.  Though the cost can seem steep, it is a good investment and less than the cost of a graduate school course (plus putting down the money will give you another reason to stay committed to class!). The enthusiasm and passion of the instructors and other students will definitely boost your own spirits... and your writing skills.

Here's a rundown of upcoming classes, pulled from the StoryStudio e-newsletter I received today:

One-Nighters Next Week:
Jumpstart your semester with a night of writing! You non-fiction folks should go with Writing Your Life (Tuesday, Jan 18 -- register by Friday!) and fiction people should head for Starting the Story (Wednesday, Jan 19 -- register by next Monday!)

Eight Week Classes Coming Up: 
Beginning Monday, January 24 (sign up by next Wednesday)
Creative Writing Fundamentals
Craft of Personal Narrative
Craft of Short Story

Beginning Tuesday, January 25 (sign up by next Wednesday)
Craft of Writing for Children & Young Adults
Craft of Novel Writing
Creative Writing I

Beginning Wednesday, January 26 (sign up by next Friday) 
Novel Workshop
Short Story Workshop

Beginning Thursday, January 27 (sign up by next Friday) 
Business of Freelancing (6-week)
Personal Essay Workshop

Classes That Only Have a Few Spots Left (So You Should Probably Register Today)  
Craft of Freelance Writing
Fiction I 
Craft of Novel Writing

StoryStudio is also hosting a Write-a-Thon this coming Saturday, January 15, from 9 am to 7 pm (for a small admission fee).  Stop by anytime to take advantage of this great space and work on your writing for as long as you like. Happy writing!

*I am not receiving anything from StoryStudio for this post... I am simply a supportive, satisfied customer and love to encourage others to write!