Taking Online Classes
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Sherry Welch
TIPS FOR TAKING AN ONLINE STORYSTUDIO CLASS
CONGRATULATIONS ON TAKING THE NEXT STEP TO BECOMING A BETTER WRITER!
You might be feeling nervous about taking an online class. Have no fear! StoryStudio is here to help you make the most of your class experience with the following tips.
CHECK YOUR EMAIL.
We like to send all kinds of useful information and updates via email. We also encourage you to build your writer network by getting to know the students in your class. Trade emails to share work and ideas.
CONQUER YOUR CALENDAR.
Time, or the lack of it, has doomed many a great writer. One trick to developing a strong writing routine is to block off time on your calendar to write, read, and prepare for class. Keep up with the work on your own schedule so you have the time and space to complete exercises and drafts each week. (You can read more about Jill, our founder, and her attempts to do just that.)
WRITE. GET IN THE HABIT.
Write every chance you get, in your notebook, on your iPad, on your smartphone, on your palm. The more words, the better. The more ideas, the better. And the more you stick to a writing schedule, the easier it will be to form a strong routine to carry you forward.
HIT THE DISCUSS BUTTON.
Throughout the class, you'll see many places where you are asked to respond to a question, discussion, quiz, or each other's work. Jump in to (or start!) a conversation. Take the time to respond thoughtfully to your classmates' work. In online classes, it's easy to sit back and read, but the class will be more enjoyable and you'll learn the most if you actively participate.
ENJOY YOURSELF. BE MESSY.
Writing is hard. No one can deny that. But the image of the tortured writer doesn't really hold true. At StoryStudio we believe that even though it can be awfully difficult to get the right words on the page, the process should be one of discovery and yes, even enjoyment.
The best way to enjoy your writing process is to remember that the messier the draft, the more opportunities you've created for yourself to find the right words.
ASK US.
We love getting to know our students and we we're happy to answer any and all questions– everything from "How do I log-in?" to "What should I be reading?" to "What class should I take next?"
TRUST YOURSELF.
We saved the hardest advice for last. Believing in our own abilities to tell a good story is often the most difficult skill a writer must develop. Here at StoryStudio we've worked with a lot of students and have read a lot of stories. Without fail, those stories are interesting and full of possibility. So use this precious time to find your voice, develop your skills, and trust in your unique view of the world.
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