What others say:
I think the course is well-structured and I liked the stories, the assignments and the other members. I highly valued the teacher (written) feedback as she also gave a comment or two on things that could have been developed more in another version. ie., 'if you have taken this idea further... '
The instructor was always engaging, considerate and interesting. Her feedback was exceptional especially the multiple open-ended suggestions for future development. I also appreciated the very helpful insights into storytelling and techniques to improve. This was my second level 1 and once again it all worked really well for me.
I like the variation in readings that we covered. From poetry to fiction and the range that was covered. I thought the exercises really honed into technique and the gave a good opportunity to use the new tools. Critiques were always thoughtful with aspects that were encouraged and aspects that needed work or where questions came up. I also really liked the process of giving and receiving feedback.
The challenging element was an important experience in this workshop. It was a journey that taught me so much about myself and I was looking forward to each session. The instructor's approach was very encouraging and I really liked how she gave feedback and brought ideas through and the group was great as well.
I liked how each class focused on a different topic, whether it was related to craft or the publishing side. Most topics were dealt with in other courses but this Level III was more in-depth concerning techniques. I learned different techniques, like pacing, scene analysis, character through setting details, and managed to write forward, adding more chapters to my longer piece.
I think the instructor did a tremendous job helping us along the path to becoming better writers. I had lots of fun, and it was great connecting with fellow writers. It truly feels like a world has been opened up to me by helping me apply this knowledge of the craft to my writing.
I liked the diversity of exercises that we had to do (prose, poetry, different narrators, various prompts that pushed us in different directions every time), and learning in a detailed way about the basics of writing techniques - very helpful for a beginner like me! The material was also very inspiring, I loved the selection of texts. The amount of reading was rich but short enough that it wasn't overwhelming at all as a weekly assignment. Atmosphere was great as our group was a bunch of lovely, talented, humble people.
Her engaging and participatory approach to leading class discussions kept me focused and motivated. Kate's constructive feedback on my writing helped me improve my skills and feel more confident as a writer.
Kate was amazing. She explained everything clearly and gave great feedback and tips. She created a safe space for critiquing. A great teacher.
Ellen is very thorough and took the time to respond fully to all questions. She also kept up a good pace, keeping the information coming. It never felt like too much.
Always helpful with the feedback. I also appreciate that she shares her experiences as a writer and with publishing her books. This is very inspiring and concrete.
A very open approach with very specific feedback which really got me thinking about my approach my my book. Very helpful all around.