Writer and storyteller Brené Brown once said, “Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do.” And to walk inside and own our story—to explore our joys, hopes, uncertainties, and pain through writing—is a courageous act of self-love that can heal us and strengthen our voice.
In this workshop, students will practice walking inside their story by writing poetry, narrative, and other creative writing pieces that center their experience and passions. Far from being “non-academic,” the genres of writing explored in this workshop will challenge students to reflect deeply on themselves, take risks, and lean into vulnerability to help them “own their story.” When we treat students' lives as primary text, we support them in deepening their understanding of self and one another, cultivating empathy, and developing a strong, powerful voice that they can express in any type of writing—whether for college or for fun.
*A note for returning students: given that this year’s workshop will run only one session, I’m combining some of what would otherwise occur during weeks 1 and 2. There will be opportunities for you to write new pieces and revise/rewrite old ones.
TWI Online uses a mix of live class zoom meetings and daily lessons and writing activities posted daily to our virtual classrooms. The Pen that Heals will meet Fridays at 10am for live meetings. These meetings will be recorded and made available to any student who was unable to attend within 24 hours of each class. On days that the class does not meet via zoom content will be posted to the virtual classroom for students to work through at their own pace. Students also have the option of attending daily all-camp write-ins via zoom at 12pm Monday-Friday.
Pen that Heals Course Details
Each week, mentor texts will be posted on Moodle along with reflection/discussion questions for students to respond to. These texts are intended to serve as models for students’ own writing. I will provide instructions and resources to guide students through the writing for each week. I kindly ask that whenever a writing piece is assigned, it please be submitted by 10am the following day, unless otherwise specified. That way I can provide feedback in a timely manner. On Fridays, we’ll have virtual sessions on Zoom at 10am where students can *share a favorite written piece from the week.
*We will talk more about sharing and respecting people’s privacy
A minimum of 15 students must be enrolled in this course for it to be held online (25 is the maximum number of students for this course).
Schedules:
Tuition discounts available for financial need. Please check online for details.