2026 Workshop On Campus
True Lies: The Fiction of Nonfiction
We understand fiction to be made-up and nonfiction to be true. But any linear narrative is a human construction, as life explodes constantly in all directions. Any first-person narrative is a distorted, imperfect retelling from one limited perspective. To make it more confusing, Grace Paley's fiction and Lucia Berlin's autofiction overflow with truth while Mary Karr's and Harry Crews' memoirs seem too wild or too evocative to be true. Where's the line? How much can we get away with? How can anyone tell “true” stories? This workshop will locate the emotional heart of your narrative, then identify and amplify the truth that spills from it. We’ll be aided in our quest by readings across genre, songs, jokes, and other real-life texts. Taught by Mishka Shubaly
Flash Prose that Packs a Punch
The rules of good writing apply no matter the length of a manuscript. Moby Dick and your short story or essay rely on the same craft elements. In this workshop, writers will learn to concentrate the craft of a longer work into a paragraph or a few pages—fact or fiction. Through lively exercises, feedback, and drafting new work, you’ll weigh every word to create prose that resonates. This nimble, high-energy workshop celebrates the thrill of the flash form. Curiosity required. Taught by Jotham Burrello
Writing Stories that Resonate
Craft stories that stick (and get published!). You know how to write. But what magic takes your story to the next level? Whether it be finding the telling details, developing scene and dialogue, or shaping the ARC, this workshop will start where you are in the development of your story and go from there. Discover how authors have created beautiful—sometimes heartbreaking—ineffable moments and focus on making your own work truly sing. Taught by Christina Chiu
Fiction
Coming soon! Taught by Molly Gaudry
Fiction
Coming soon! Taught by Rebecca Kuang
The Art of the Opening: Mastering the First Ten Pages
The first five to ten pages of a novel or memoir often determine whether an agent, editor, or reader wants to see more of your work. Whether you are just beginning a project or revising the manuscript for the fifth time, chances are your first ten pages could still use revision at the sentence and content level. We will look at openings of published novels and memoirs and discuss and apply revision strategies for the beginning of your work. Taught by LaTanya McQueen
Poetry
Coming soon! Taught by Jennifer McCauley
Prompts and Sprints: A Generative Writing Class
For when you just want to write, but need permission, prompts, and a little push. Open to writers of all levels and genres, this generative class includes exercises designed to get you out of your head and into your creative work. You’ll produce lots of pages -- promise. Whether you’re looking to find inspiration, get unblocked, or further develop a work-in-progress, this will be a fun and welcoming way to connect with your creativity. Taught by Amy Shearn