Fall 2009 / First Two Weeks
Here is a rundown of my first two weeks in year 2.
Fiction Workshop with Steven Schwartz.
- The class size is 18 students this year (usually, there are 12-14).
- The ratio of guys to girls is now equal. Last year, we had 4 guys, 8 girls.
- Reviewed Not that I Care by CSU employee/alum Molly Reid. It won the NPR “3 minute fiction” award.
- THOUGHTS: Steven has proven a very hands-on instructor so far. We aren’t left to our own devices during workshop but rather we are guided on specific craft elements within our own work.
Teaching Creative Writing with Todd Mitchell.
- Happy to be in this class. It was full, but I attended the first class in case someone dropped. Lucky me. Someone dropped.
- Heavy courseload here. We read craft books, short stories, poetry and practice creative writing lesson plans on one another.
- Multiple projects.
- I have to write and studya and teach poetry. (yikes!)
- Stories so far: White Angel, Gryphon, Cathedral, The Apaloosa House.
- THOUGHTS: Very excited about the class. I was lucky to get in. In one of my last three semesters I will teach my own intro to creative writing class. Yes!
Teaching Reading with Cindy O’Donnel-Allen.
- This is a prereq that will allow me to begin my post-bachelor’s work in teaching certification (secondary). Interesting class so far.
Intermediate Creative Writing (TA’ing for Judy Doenges).
- It’s great to be working with Judy again. She was my instructor for last semester’s Graduate Fiction Workshop. It’s been delightful taking notes in class from the “teaching perspective). Read so far: Good Country People, A Sense of Shelter.
- I will be facilitating half the class in workshops. First one is Tuesday, September 3. Very excited!
SpeakOut!
- I’m still working with Tobi Jacobi in the Literacy Center. This year it’s through Americorps. I’m facilitating creative writing workshops at the Larimer County Detention Center. Amazing work. Amazing women. I have lots of big ideas for this program (this semester and next).
Stories in the Works…
- Pine Box – Revising
- Full Moon Mo’Nique – First Draft Finish
- Untitled piece about a guy who wants a girl and she’s in love with the school nerd – Unwritten
