Writing Personal Essays
six-week Online Class
The word essay derives from the French infinitive essayer—"to try" or "to attempt.” In this generative class, we’ll celebrate the messy beauty of our “attempts” rather than expecting perfection.
Over six weeks, you’ll explore what makes for vivid and moving personal essays, read and discuss the work of other writers, and write at least one essay of your own. You’ll receive detailed feedback on your essay draft and will leave the class with fresh ideas for revision.
Required Reading:
Students will be asked to purchase Tell It Slant, third edition, by Brenda Miller and Suzanne Paola.
Outcomes:
Understand the personal essay and its many variations
Learn craft tools to make your essays stronger
Gain insight into what makes a strong essay through reading and discussing essays from other writers
Receive detailed feedback on one of your drafts
Harness your creativity through guided writing prompts
Deepen your writing skills through homework
Connect with a compassionate community of other writers
Registration & Tuition
Limited to 10 students. Early applications are encouraged!
📅 IMPORTANT DATES
Early registration deadline: August 20— receive $50 off
Final registration deadline: September 18.
💸 TUITION (SLIDING SCALE)
I offer “pay from the heart” pricing so that the class can be accessible to more people. Please choose the option that best reflects your current circumstances:
$450 - Full price
$350 - Sustainable price (what supports my teaching long-term)
$250 - Reduced price
Schedule
Week 1:
What are personal essays?
Reading and discussion
Writing prompts
Week 2
Writing memory
Reading and discussion
Writing prompts
Week 3
Writing family
Reading and discussion
Writing prompts
Week 4
Writing the physical world
Reading and discussion
Workshop
Week 5
Writing identity
Reading and discussion
Workshop
Week 6
Incorporating research
Reading and discussion
Workshop
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel 10 or more days before the class starts, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel after that time, you will receive a recording and handouts from the class (online classes only) or credit toward a future class, depending on your preference.
If you cancel on the day of the class, don't show up, or leave early, you will not receive either a refund or credit.
On rare occasions, I may need to cancel a class due to unforeseen circumstances. If that happens, I will do my best to reschedule for a time when all students can attend.