Write Like a Pro [Live & Online]

Writing can be an act of catharsis, a way of processing experiences during difficult times. Now, more than ever, we need to write our stories.

The Write Like a Pro workshop is designed to guide participants through the stylistic and technical elements that make a great piece of writing. It draws heavily from the art and craft of narrative non-fiction, but is relevant for anyone who wants to communicate more effectively through the written word. The nut of it is: How do you make your truth compelling to others?

Over the course of the workshop, we’ll cover: shaping ideas; planning and organising material; elements of storytelling; wordcraft and style; finding your voice; tough-love editing; and, finally, putting your work out there.

Now in its NINTH run, the Write Like a Pro workshop puts special focus on practising techniques we learn in class through the process of developing, writing, and polishing a short (500- to 1000- word) non-fiction piece by the end of the workshop. For most people, this requires setting aside an additional hour or so per week to write at home.

In each workshop, we’ll spend part of the time reviewing techniques and examples, and part of the time writing, sharing work, and providing feedback to others. Think of it like part writing class, part writing circle.

So, if you’ve been feeling the urge to write now more than ever, don’t hesitate to sign up.

Who Should Take This Workshop?

This workshop is open to all experience levels. Small groups ensure that each student has their voice heard and their needs met. Whether you’re looking to connect over shared interests, develop your craft, or looking for feedback on a project, this is the workshop for you.

Colleen Kimmett is a Montreal-based writer and journalist. Colleen’s work has been published in The Walrus, The Guardian, Al Jazeera America, Bright Magazine, In These Times, StatNews, Arctic Deeply, and beyond. Previously, she was a senior editor at The Tyee and a founding editor of The Discourse. Currently, she teaches a science communication course at McGill and is the community outreach coordinator for the Institute for Investigative Journalism.

Please Note

Live and participatory, these video conference workshops are limited to 4-8 participants, to ensure everyone gets the most out of each session. Participants are expected to attend all four weekly sessions.

Flexible Scheduling and Registration

Three possible schedules, to be confirmed:

Schedule A: Thursdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30, 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Schedule B: Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29, May 6, 6:30 pm – 8 pm
Schedule C: Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29, May 6, 10 am – 11:30 am

Use the ticket link to pick your preferred schedule(s). Based on sign-ups we receive we’ll coordinate the workshop schedule and send you an invite (within 7 days). If you agree to join, then it’s booked and we’ll send an invoice for $100.

Software

Since this workshop takes place online, participants will need to download Zoom for video conferencing and have access to a laptop.

Click here to download Zoom: https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting

Testimonials

“A great class! I appreciated the focus on specific techniques + I loved learning about new authors.”

“Very informative & practical which I like very much.”

“Colleen is a solid instructor who provides useful, packaged, and directed feedback.”