Classes, workshops and events

  • CREATING THE TV SERIES

    Alice O’Neill

    SEPTEMBER 27th and 28th

    This fast-paced two day intensive is designed for students ready to dive into the world of TV storytelling. From day one, you'll bring your ideas to the table—literally. We’ll kick things off with a dynamic lecture on what makes a great TV series, followed by a workshop-style session where students pitch their concepts to the group.

    You’ll leave class with feedback and direction, and return on Day 2 with a more developed version of your series idea. We’ll explore what makes a successful pilot, discuss essential elements of structure and character, and take a practical look at how the industry works. We’ll wrap up with an open Q&A about everything from writing to representation. Everyone will get to make/get feedback on their “elevator pitch.!

    Whether you’re dreaming up your first show or refining an existing idea, this course will give you the tools and perspective to take it to the next level.

    $300.00

    Space is very limited, act fast! This was my favorite workshop at Columbia!

  • fiction: writing a short story

    Taylor Larsen

    Sarurday August 9th and 16th

    In this two-week class we’ll explore the craft of short story writing with a focus on point of view, character, and scene—key elements that shape powerful, memorable fiction.

    Each student will have the opportunity to workshop a story or an excerpt in a supportive, engaged environment. Writers of all levels are welcome. This class encourages creative risk-taking and experimentation, while also offering clear, honest feedback and strategies for revision.

    We’ll read and discuss work by authors including Elizabeth Strout, Jamel Brinkley, Stuart Dybek, Andre Dubus, and Haruki Murakami—looking closely at what makes their stories work (and where they fall short) to help sharpen our own storytelling.

    Whether you're polishing a draft or starting from scratch, this course is designed to deepen your skills, expand your toolkit, and help you move your fiction forward.

    $250

    Space is limited; register early.

  • Writing True Crime: Felons and Fiction

    Cynthia Weiner

    Sundays August 10th and 17th

    1-4pm

    Join a powerful two-night workshop led by Cynthia Weiner, Assistant Director of The Writers Studio in NYC and author of the upcoming novel A Gorgeous Excitement (Crown, 2025).

    On Day One you'll step behind the scenes of Cynthia’s writing process as she reveals how she transformed the notorious 1986 “Preppy Murder” into a gripping novel. You’ll learn how to fictionalize true crime in a way that’s bold, original, and emotionally resonant. Then, dive into a hands-on writing session where you’ll choose from a curated selection of real-life cases—or bring your own—and begin shaping your own crime-inspired story.

    By Day Two, you’ll return with the next part of your story draft, ready to share, get feedback, and refine your voice in a supportive, creative space.

    Whether you’re fascinated by true crime, exploring fiction, or looking to push your storytelling further, this is your chance to create something unforgettable..

    $200

    Space is limited, act fast!

  • Fiction Workshop 1

    Mesha Rain Fogel

    Fridays in August, 10 am-1 pm

    For new-ish writers

    Writers will share their work in a supportive group setting, give and receive feedback, and have the chance to submit a second draft for instructor notes. You’ll gain experience reading aloud, sharpen your revision skills, and learn how to participate effectively in an MFA-style writers’ workshop.

    The course concludes with an optional open mic where all writers are invited to read their work.

    $200

    (dates: 8/15. 8/22, 8/29, 9/5)

  • fiction workshop 2

    Mesha Rain Fogel

    This workshop is designed for experienced writers developing a novel or a story collection in any genre. You'll share excerpts from your work-in-progress, engage in thoughtful, rigorous feedback, and have the opportunity to revise and submit a second draft for instructor critique. The focus is on deepening your craft, refining narrative structure, and honing your voice within a supportive, MFA-style workshop environment.

    Space is restricted to MFA grads and published authors. This is an instructor-guided, peer-based feedback workshop. LIMITED TO 8 WRITERS

    $200Saturdays in September 11-3