| "It was an extremely rewarding experience—well organized, managed, and executed. I would like to take some other courses organized along the same lines. There were no negatives worth mentioning. I will recommend it highly to others. A superb class!" |
-R. Stephen Rasin
Corporate President and Venture Capitalist
|
| "The combination of writing exercises and group feedback gave me the direction I never experienced in any other writing class. This class and instructor inspired me to finally do what I’d dreamed about doing for years." |
-Gabriella Contestabile
Training Director
|
| "This is the best writing class I’ve taken. The quality of instruction was superb, and the small class size allowed a lot of feedback." |
-David Marino
Consultant
|
| "I have honestly found every week's lecture to be interesting, with something new and unexpected. I will return to the lectures long after the course has finished. It is just the most fantastic thing to be able to learn from an instructor in New York." |
-Margarita Crutchley
Assistant, Photo Library
|
| "I shopped around quite a bit on the Web before signing up, and this class has exceeded my expectations and given me the impetus and confidence to keep writing. The site is very well organized and made the whole process enjoyable. I think Gotham has set the standard for what an online fiction writing class should be. I will be back for more!" |
-David Krohne
Editor
|
| "Most business writing courses are dull and uninteresting. This class brought an entirely new perspective to this topic. I learned how to improve the quality, readability, and impact of my pieces." |
-Abigail Harper
Associate Director
PricewaterhouseCoopers
|
| "The readings were excellent examples of each craft element. I saw books I'd read before in new ways, and was introduced to new writers I'd never heard of. The lectures were in-depth and worthy of saving for deeper understanding down the line. Excellent class." |
-Karen Aschenbach
Writer/Editor
|
| "This course taught me how to structure my inspired rambling into a coherent, potent piece of writing. I got a lot of information and great inspiration to continue some past projects and begin new ones." |
-Mark Hayes
Actor/Dancer
|
| "The instructor provided an invaluable insider's point of view…. This Gotham class allowed me to take part in dialogues with people from Croatia to Washington State, on topics from an encounter with Mother Theresa to peddling a pedicab in California. I loved the disparate points of view and the extravagant variety of travel experiences that were shared online!" |
-Teri Albert
Writer
|
| "The class exceeded my expectations. It was extremely helpful and informative in ALL areas, and I learned a great deal from the instructor on Children's Literature in general." |
-Chris Lombardi
Mortgage Broker
|
| "This is the fullest, most challenging introductory course I've ever taken. The instructor seems to know everything there is to know about poets, and he shares this information with the class in the most creative ways." |
-Barbara Janes
Public Relations
|
| "Before the course, I had many ideas on screenwriting that I had acquired from reading books and attending lectures, but they remained more or less abstract notions. This course was invaluable in helping me attain a more concrete and illuminating understanding of the craft. It feels like someone has flipped the light switch on." |
-Raj Mahtani
Translator
|
| "Gotham Writers' Workshop has proved a priceless resource for our members, and writers around the world. Their skilled instruction, convenient class schedules, and student-faculty exchange are without equal." |
-John Johnson
Executive Director
American Screenwriters Association
|
| "I heartily recommend Gotham Writers' Workshop screenwriting workshops. Their reputation for providing expert instruction, small class size, and extensive student-teacher interaction is unbeatable." |
-Frank Colin
Vice President
Final Draft, Inc.
|
| "This class, taught by a literary agent, is a tremendous opportunity to ask questions of a publishing industry insider." |
-Alan Schleimer
Student
|
| "One of the best writing class experiences I've ever had." |
-Nina-Marie Gardner
Writer
|
| "Thank you! This has been a life-changing course." |
-Dianna Garrigan
Writer
|
| "Quite simply, this has been a life-changing, life-enriching experience. No kidding. This is the best gift I've given myself in years." |
-Brenda Nesbitt
Creative Director
|
| "This course was exactly what I needed. Now I feel so inspired and motivated to keep writing, hopefully to the point where I'll eventually complete my first book. The instructor's down-to-earth, informative, and very encouraging style of teaching made all the difference. Was well worth it. Can't wait to do it again!" |
-Franca DiMaso
Sales Coordinator
|
| "More than I expected, and worth every penny. I signed up for the course through Zoetrope.com, an online writing community, and expected to learn a bit about the basics of fiction. But with my instructor's guidance and steady encouragement, I have participated in online conversations with my classmates about the intricacies of plot, dialogue, characterization, conflicts, resolutions, and revising. I have written two short stories, as well as commented and reviewed scores more. I have learned not just the basics of fiction, but what it truly takes to cultivate that passion so that it comes alive for readers. And I have learned that none of this is easy, but attainable with lots of dedication, perseverance and faith. And that's priceless." |
-Jamie Stockwell
Journalist
|
| "Everything in this class was organized and structured to perfection." |
-Lilia Todd
Writer
|
| "This is by far the best writing course that I have ever taken." |
-Linda Gask
Doctor
|
| "I learned more in this course than I could possibly write here. The instructor was amazing online. The best I've ever had and I have taken 7 online courses at various places. My understanding of the issues related to writing a novel is light years ahead of where it was prior to the class." |
-Barbara Seith
Managing Director
|
| "This class has been one of the highlights of my life." |
-Sheryl Jones
Student
|
| "I thoroughly enjoyed learning about romance novels and was surprised to find them to be such a structured piece of art. The instructor illuminated the distinctions and difficulties inherent in romance writing. She also provided us with the resources to work on our craft and tips to avoid pitfalls that many writers fall into, especially the traps that come with this particular style of writing." |
-Ryan Migge
Transcriber
|
| "This is the best course I have ever taken, and since I have a master's degree, I have taken hundreds of courses." |
-Heather Stone
VP of Marketing and Sales
|
| "This course really cleared up the maze of agents, production companies, managers, etc. out there." |
-Mark Lambert
VP, Operations Int'l Logistics
|
| "This course gives information straight from the trenches." |
-Mel Melcer
English Teacher
|
| "Science Fiction Writing I provided a wonderful step-by-step guide to the basics of writing compelling science fiction, covering everything from inventing a story line to plot and character development to the essentials of world-building. The class also propelled me into a community of writers, who bonded together in a supportive environment." |
-Laurie Pine
Communications Specialist
|
| "I gained a very good grasp of the basics of writing fiction as well as a new perspective. Even before the course was half over, I found myself thinking about writing in a different way." |
-Anthony James
Cell Manufacturing Leader
|
| "Enlightening...a truly life-enriching experience. I can't praise the teacher enough. He opened my eyes to aspects of novel writing that would never have occurred to me if I hadn't enrolled in the course. I consider it a privilege to have been a member of his class." |
-Julian Desser
Journalist & Copywriter
|
| "I just elevated my craft in poetry to a new level." |
-Leah Odze Epstein
Homemaker
|
| "I learned the ins and outs of the publisher's/agent's pysche, what they're looking for, and how to present material to them." |
-John Andrulis
Journalist
|
| "The instructor left me with a hopeful feeling at the end that inspires me to persevere." |
-Mary Langham
Playwright
|
| "I had no knowledge of this subject before taking this class...I now know how to format a scipt correctly and what is needed to produce an effective TV script." |
-AnneMarie Jones
Trademark Administrator
|
| "I knew nothing about feature writing, and this class helped me to be published in a magazine." |
-Kristin Willis Halabi
Freelance Writer
|
| "This course has been the X factor that I have been looking for to get me jump-started." |
-Georgia Mansur
Artist (Painter)
|
| "This class was a wonderful mix of lecture, assignments, exchanges, and critiques. I've learned so much. My technique has improved, and I will continue to refer to the lectures as I write my memoir." |
-Deborah Lehman
Freelance Journalist
|
| "Gotham Writers' Workshop takes full advantage of the strengths online learning has to offer. The Web site works beautifully, the structure is well thought out, and the content is outstanding." |
-Joanne Hus
Illustrator & Graphic Designer
|
| "I loved the course. It was one of the best investments of time, money, effort I've made in a very long time." |
-Fernando Veranes
Investor
|
| "I took Fiction I, then Fiction II twice. The Fiction Master Class brought what I learned during those courses together and gave the whys and hows of writing in detail." |
-Eugene Galassini
Accountant
|
| "Quite simply, this course and the instructor have changed my life. I went from wanting to write to actively, obsessively, constantly writing—and certainly better than I ever have before. My gratitude to GWW is infinite." |
-Mary Lynn Reed
Researcher
|
| "I learned myriad of techniques to infuse humor into my writing." |
-Keisha Barrow
Law Student
|
| "This course increased my knowledge of the principles on which humor is based and gave me a host of resources from which to learn more." |
-Alana Peters
Solicitor
|
| "I liked the instructor's ability to speak from the agent's perspective and to teach us what the business of publishing is all about. Invaluable!" |
-Margaret Nitka
Business Owner/Freelance Writer
|
| "This course gave me an excellent introduction into what it takes to get published; it is packed full of instruction, information, and ideas on not only “How to Get Published” but also how to approach writing as a business." |
-Katherine Getto
Technical Consultant
|
| "The course gave me a wonderful overview of a variety of styles. I learned the difference between a memoir and a personal essay, between feature journalism and hard news, how to profile someone, and how to format news articles." |
-Helen Aki
Student
|
| "The instructor's knowledge of the subject seemed to be endless." |
-Will Upjohn
Speech-Language Pathologist
|
| "I didn't know much going in and now I feel ready to tackle the daunting task of writing a screenplay." |
-Michele Weber
Mom
|
| "This instructor is the best I have ever had, including all of my professors in both undergraduate and medical school." |
-Gigi Gabrielle
Psychiatrist and Painter
|
| "My writing skills have improved dramatically; I’ve learned to THINK about and SEE screenwriting in a whole new light." |
-Anne Lower
Fundraiser/Producer
|
| "The instructor's clarity of criticism had to open the minds of everyone in the course." |
-Phillip Dibble
Physician
|
| "So many of the nuances and difficulties of weaving through the publishing world were explained in a straightforward manner. This course is a must." |
-Robert Glider
Attorney
|
| "We learned the ins and outs of publishing that you just can't get from a book. I've just started submitting material and realize how little I knew about the process, especially those all-important query letters. Now I know so much more." |
-Jean Medeiros
Paralegal
|
| "I learned the nuts and bolts of memoir. Specifically, I got connected to the process of writing, and the course took it out of the theoretical and made it real for me." |
-Drew Hastings
Performing Artist/Writer
|
| "Our instructor was accomplished and masterful in the subject." |
-Sylvia Roeloffs
Master Gardener/Retired Office Mgr.
|
| "The course offers sound fundamental instruction for any poet, from the beginner to the poet seeking to refine his or her voice and skills." |
-Renee DeHoll
Artist
|
| "This course has completely revitalized me as a writer, giving me tremendous new perspectives. I feel that I'm now equipped to do great things." |
-Roger Bonner
Writer/ English Teacher
|
| "The content and elements of this course certainly gave me the jump I needed, and I'm definitely eager to dive more deeply into the elements presented in this course." |
-Vicki Campbell
Marketing Specialist
|
| "The processes taught in the course serve as an invaluable framework for thinking about the story to be told." |
-Nicholas Hayes
Business Executive
|
| "I wanted to relax my writing, find a more creative style, and expand my focus to the broader story surrounding the spot news. This class definitely helped me to practice that." |
-Tanalee Smith
Journalist
|
| "A fine overview of what speculative fiction is all about." |
-Wana Perry
Retired Executive
|
| "I've learned how to dig deeper into the dynamics and mechanics of film and make more meaningful connections between theme, character, and narrative." |
-Angelo Crespo
Sales
|
| "I learned everything there is to know concerning TV writing." |
-Erica Lake
Accounting
|
| "I cannot believe how much taking this course has improved my writing. When I look back and compare the things I wrote previously with what I am writing now, the difference is striking." |
-Carole Ann Moleti
Nurse/Midwife
|
| "I understand now that to be taken seriously I must perfect all business communications and edit, edit, edit." |
-Colleen Steele
Assistant Corporate Secretary
|
| "I left this course better equipped to pursue my publishing goals." |
-Maureen Dolbeare
Author/Writer
|
| "The amount of information I received about the publishing business is staggering. If I fail in my attempt to publish a book or magazine articles, it won't be for lack of knowledge of how to go about it." |
-Dominique Caillat
Playwright
|
| "The agent/publishing world is like Mars to me. My approach to the people in those fields will be considerably different now than it would have been without this information." |
-John Swain
Teacher/Actor
|
| "Having so many humor principles and techniques laid out in front of me gave me a broad palette I could play around with." |
-Jodi Lustig
Writer
|
| "This was a fantastic class. I always thought that great writers were born that way. This course taught me that practice, practice, and more practice contribute just as much to great writing." |
-Jennifer Lund
Managing Director
|
| "This course was a superb resource for concise how-to knowledge with a practical punch. I especially enjoyed how the class material is spiced with personal tips and insider perspectives." |
-Erin Brown Conroy
Univ. Prof./Writer/Speaker/Mom of 13
|
| "I had a story in mind but didn't even know how to begin. Now my first book is underway and the process has been fun and adventurous." |
-Elizabeth Baker
Senior Programmer Analyst
|
| "For an introductory course on writing, the content was perfect." |
-Lana Potocnjak
Registered Nurse
|
| "An excellent intro to writing, a perfect means of getting my feet wet after years of not writing. No pressure, no painful assignments. Just a laid-back, supportive, and fun atmosphere." |
-Andrea Shiffman
Math Teacher
|
| "This course simply took me further along on the endless journey of writing. It's the little things along the way—the images, the control, the fine-tuning: the artistry of the word—that demand mastery. That's what I am learning." |
-Glenys Loewen-Thomas
Writing & Literature Instructor
|
| "I learned how to think like a mystery writer." |
-Fiona Kirk
Journalist
|
| "Our instructor found immensely interesting and varied poems to stretch our minds and help develop our own poetry muscles." |
-violet samir
Social Work Organization Director
|
| "I am a professional writer by trade, but I learned so such about character development, the elements and structure of writing memoir, and the more nuanced, subtle ingredients of story writing." |
-Janet Davenport
Communications VP
|
| "This course got me completing up to 75 pages of new work for my book, as well as giving me clearer ideas about what to do with chapters that needed work." |
-Rania Zada
Writer
|
| "I was able to look at humor writing from several different angles that I had not thought of previously." |
-Alexandra Hartley-Leonard
Actor
|
| "I was intimidated by starting a mystery novel even though I really wanted to write one. Now I'm not afraid of it." |
-Wanda Craig
Management Consultant
|
| "Through the course, I have become more aware as a reader. I can still enjoy a good story, yet my attention is now more focused on exactly what is making something work." |
-Blair Kraft
MIS Administrator
|
| "Enough pieces of information per week to build a comedy writing arsenal." |
-Christie Scanlan
Graphic Designer
|
| "Before starting the course, I could not come up with a good plot, and had not written in a long time. After writing a few assignments, the ideas started coming fast and furious." |
-Pat Comley
IT Management
|
| "I went from being a reader to being a writer…in six short weeks!" |
-Dorothy Cameron
Retiree
|
| "The instructor truly wants you to succeed. Her course is a great invitation to step into your inner spotlight." |
-Chris Olejniczak
Press Assistant
|
| "This has been a wonderful experience. I learned far more than I could have hoped and have had a great time doing it. The instructor packs an amazing amount of information into each week's lesson." |
-Sue Mendive
Dental Office Manager
|
| "This course took me step-by-step into the writer's world, and I discovered that I was at home there." |
-Patti Ackermann
Teacher
|
| "I regained my confidence as a writer and remembered how much I enjoy writing creatively." |
-Alicia Hempen
Martial Arts School Owner
|
| "I found that simply taking this course has improved my attitude about my job and my life in general because I finally feel like I'm doing something I want to do...something that makes me happy." |
-Jennifer Rome
Research Consultant
|
| "I entered this course having no idea how to write a children's book, or what was involved with the process. This class gave me the knowledge I was looking for, and pointed me in the right direction." |
-Kelley Diekman
Sales
|
| "I think taking an online class is brilliant because you can access the class 24/7. I love the break down of the lecture, the notebook, the class discussion, and the booth. Most of all, this class got me writing for 10 weeks straight! With interactivity, you feel you want to write. You have a purpose and a goal so you prioritize it. And you feel like you're getting somewhere. I've taken Gotham's classes before and I will take them again—they're awesome." |
-Marilyn Miller
Screenwriter
|
| "The entire experience was so worthwhile that I have signed up for another course." |
-Harold Leib
|
| "Whether you want to write professionally or you need to polish your skills for school or your job, this course will help you." |
-William Moss
purchasing manager
|
| "A fantastic way to dip your toes into the world of writing. This was really the best money I've spent in a long time and I plan to take another course next session." |
-Joy Victory
Health Editor
|
| "This was a great way for me to get my toes wet in the writing process." |
-Stacy Phillips
Preschool Resource Teacher
|
| "It's a cross between a mind womb, an online kick-ass creativity party, and a playground for the kid stuck inside your soul." |
-Jack Seemar
self-employed
|
| "A great way to gain confidence as a comedian and as a writer in general. And you get to perform in two NYC comedy clubs!" |
-Jonathan Carver
Attorney
|
| "A wonderful introduction to the art of writing children's books." |
-Virginia Dunphy
elementary teacher
|
| "The course introduced the skill of writing for children in a very comprehensible and exciting way. Almost a must if you're serious about children's writing." |
-John Dahlgren
Psychologist
|
| "I feel like I've made my story so much better in just a few short months. Thank you!" |
-Colleen Craig
Marketing Research Director
|
| "Creative Writing 101 was one of the highlights of my week. The three hours flew by and it was a wonderful way to dip back into the pool of writing in a comfortable and fun atmosphere." |
-Kathleen Admirand-Dimmler
Social Work Assistant Director
|
| "I absolutely loved every minute of this course." |
-Jennifer Jamieson
Market Research
|
| "Creative Writing 101 is a great way to dive into your creative side, even if you don't think you have much of one!" |
-Christina Haviland
Environmental Scientist
|
| "It's a great course to get you up and writing. The exercises are short enough so you can get them done if you're busy, and deep enough for you to learn the principle being taught." |
-Brenda Noonan
Technical Writer
|
| "Take it--you'll love it! Your scope of observation will increase immensely and you'll never read written material in the same manner again." |
-Wendy Fuentes
Self-employed
|
| "A great introduction to writing, since it never felt intimidating. A course that gives you a small collection of writing that you can expand after the course is over." |
-Rebecca Mitsuse
Teacher
|
| "This course has been a terrific way to provide me some discipline (goals, deadlines, focus), encouragement (lessons that give practical tips, positive feedback from a real-live person) and a community of like-minded yet unique individuals with similar needs and goals." |
-Ruth Louden
Career Counsellor
|
| "A great first step to the writing experience, to get the creative juices flowing." |
-Viv Garcia
retired
|
| "The Gotham way is fun!" |
-Malou Hansson
Manager/Businesswoman
|
| "You will walk away with helpful information and a better knowledge of the English language than you previously had." |
-Sheila Fiffie
Liaison Officer
|
| "This course was more than a writing class--it was a writing circle--a place where writers who care deeply about their craft come together to practice and refine it." |
-Bonnie Walker
attorney
|
| "An eye-opener." |
-Lydia Hoffman
Freelance Journalist
|
| "A great way to see your work through your readers' eyes." |
-Crystal Walker
writer
|
| "A semester's worth of grammar in a one-day class. You can't beat it!" |
-Mark Renner
Public Speaker
|
| "The day was a wonderful introduction to writing a memoir with topics covered thoroughly and interspersed with excellent exercises." |
-Pamela Markham
Visual Artist
|
| "The instructor gave a complete and thorough class that hit upon the entire process of memoir writing. With almost every point she had an example that clearly illustrated the topic. The writing exercises were perfect and helped communicate the points even more." |
-Britta Larsen
Advertising
|
| "A fantabulous way to spend an evening --
some of the best live comedy in town -- and a most entertaining way to learn" |
-Martina Clark
Humanitarian Worker
|
| "I hadn't written for ages and was really stuck when I tried to start anything. Add to that the external pressures of parenting and my job, and I was beginning to think I would never get around to writing anything at all. This course really focused me and energized me. I now have a story to work on and I feel like writing is finally part of my life again!" |
-Siobhan Wilde
EFL teacher
|
| "Having never written anything other than required for work or school, I was apprehensive about the process and, frankly, somewhat intimidated. This course appealed equally well to anyone who wants to write-- from the novice to the experienced. I am taking two more!" |
-Linda McDowell
CEO
|
| "No nonsense, no sugar coating, step by step teaching." |
-Julie Baer
Advertising Executive
|
| "I've never had writing presented this way to me before. My instructor's expertise really showed in her lectures and her extremely helpful critiques. She did an exceptional job at demystifying the writing process. I would recommend Gotham to anyone wanting to pursue writing in any capacity." |
-Irish Baldwin
Full-time Mom
|
| "A bucketload of fun. I really enjoyed my experience with this humor writing course." |
-Shan Sandhu
Company Director
|
| "A great way to amp up your writing. The time I spent online in my Gotham class was the greatest "me" time I've had in years--and my writing has improved exponentially!" |
-Katherine Mills-Hernandez
Teacher
|
| "A very effective way to transition from a wannabe to a professional writer." |
-Abbe Andersen
artist, photographer
|
| "Realistic in terms of the world of freelancing with its pitfalls and opportunities." |
-Catherine McArdle
teacher
|
| "The instructor and my classmates made the experience one I will not forget." |
-Debra Evans
Arts Education Consultant
|
| "Great introduction to the nuts and bolts of creative writing, and leaves you wanting more (in a good way)." |
-Michelle Rodak
editorial assistant
|
| "An excellent course to take if you want an overview of the field." |
-Rochelle Leal
Teacher
|
| "I feel like I can now confidently send a query to a major publication, and have a strong chance of getting a positive response." |
-Kathleen Barlow
Internet Marketing Manager
|
| "If you're the least bit interested in writing articles, take this course." |
-Del-Mia Strickland
Manicurist
|
| "There is no pressure, and keeping that in mind allows you to be expressive without worrying about your grade or what others are going to think." |
-Lori Martucci
Sales Coordinator
|
| "One of the best decisions I've ever made. Improved my writing incredibly." |
-Linda Burgess
Waitress/Bartender
|
| "By the end of this course I had the tools to write a well structured and organized article that I sold to my local newspaper. Now, the newspaper wants me to write an additional piece!" |
-Angela Timpone
Figure Skating Coach
|
| "If you're looking to expand or explore your talent for writing, this course will do both. Take the course and enjoy the ride" |
-Bill Elliott
Project Manager
|
| "The instructor brought his years of experience to us, and writers seldom get that without already having an agent." |
-Deirdre Sinnott
Writer & Literary Critic
|
| "Magazines and books about writing are fine, but this course provides vital contact with the real world of fiction writing." |
-Tom Mooney
journalist/teacher
|
| "I came home and told my daughter it was one of the best experiences of my life...truly." |
-Christine Passarella
Teacher
|
| "At the end of class, I left with a head chock-full of ideas that I couldn't wait to use once I got home!" |
-Dawn Turzio-Campbell
Teacher
|
| "A perfect teacher. He was witty, and genuine, and smart, and brought odd things to his lectures to delight and challenge, to expand our sense of the possible in fiction." |
-Rhonda Shary
Adjunct Professor of English
|
| "Very focused, practical and realistic advice on selling screenplays. Excellent instructor." |
-Nancy Young
|
| "Definitely useful for those who want to learn important, effective writing techniques and tips." |
-Inez Brown
College Administrator
|
| "The teacher sparked parts of my imagination that I didn't know were there." |
-Michelle Pimentel
Teacher
|
| "A great way to get your writing juices flowing!" |
-Aleta Lafargue
Actress
|
| "The instructor sparked my creativity and helped me focus on what my work as a writer should be. His advice guides much of what I write." |
-Nicholas Troilo
newspaper columnist
|
| "In several hours I learned all of the preliminary steps from developing a topic to writing a query letter to writing the proposal." |
-Joseph Schippa
Psychologist
|
| "The instructor has gone through the process herself and was able to explain things from "the front lines."" |
-Suzanne Steinbaum
physician
|
| "A great head start in a very competitive race" |
-Anita Diggs
Book Editor
|
| "I have received my writing kick start and I am off to further writing adventures." |
-Ray Richard
contract administrator
|
| "If you want an insider's view on the publishing jungle, take this class!" |
-Jacquline Hopson
Nuclear Chemist
|
| "The instructor created a sense of possibility in a business rife with rejections." |
-Joaquin Terceno
Attorney
|
| "Tons of practical advice." |
-Maria Rosas
Entrepreneur
|
| "Excellent! I highly recommend all professionals take the course." |
-Kimberly Jarrett
Account Executive
|
| "It's a course everyone should take even if it's just to refresh their fundamental writing skills." |
-Gina Tovar
Fashion Marketing
|
| "I learned valuable lessons that will help me achieve my goal of furthering my career." |
-Nada Polanco
Grant Writer
|
| "Script Analysis should be everyone's complementary course to any screenwriting class. The films and screenplays are perfectly selected to match the week's discussion." |
-Irene Quisenberry
Homemaker
|
| "If you need to know anything pertaining to the business, this is the course you need to take." |
-Kathleen Stalford
Production Program Manager
|
| "Finally, I completed a short story!" |
-Paula Nixon
Accountant
|
| "As a must-take if one is at all interested in fiction writing." |
-Barry Gold
Scientist & consultant
|
| "A wonderful forum to share and workshop humor writing." |
-Stefanie Forman
Public Relations/Public Affair
|
| "If you've ever considered doing stand up comedy, then theres no doubt in my mind that you should take this course." |
-Max Thomas
Advertising Agency
|
| "You'll learn, you'll laugh, you'll grow...and best of all, you'll get to put your newly acquired wit to the test when you perform on two of New York's infamous comedy stages!" |
-Jody Young
Consulting
|
| "If you are ready to try your hand at getting a piece published, this could be the perfect intro." |
-Scott Barton
Executive Chef
|
| "A must for a serious screenwriter" |
-Curtis Easley
Teacher
|
| "I left class every day feeling inspired and by the end of the 10 week course I had already started playing open mic nights." |
-Adam Ramsey
Singer/Songwriter/Bartender
|
| "I rode the train home scribbling ideas in a notebook. The next morning I got up and wrote another chapter of an easy-reader book I'm experimenting with. As I wrote, I thought about all I'd learned in class about character development, believable dialogue, confict and resolution, and making the whole thing interesting to a youngster. I can't think of a better investment of my time than to spend a Saturday in this class!" |
-Linda Post
Corporate communications
|
| "It's very useful for writers who know when sentences 'sound right' but want a better understanding of why they are, in fact, grammatically correct." |
-Michelle Robinson
Attorney
|
| "A fantastic way to improve your writing, whether you're new to the craft or brushing up on old skills." |
-Karen McMillen
Filmmaker
|
| "The course and the instructor have awakened in me a passion for writing I didn’t know I had." |
-Sandra Feria
Office Assistant
|
| "The class really makes me want to jump right into the process!" |
-Anne Hinsman
architect
|
| "A must for any screenwriter." |
-Matthew Blankenship
plumbing
|
| "A great course for the writer who has completed one or more scripts and is wondering what to do next." |
-Kathryn Kyker
ER Social Work Manager
|
| "Fascinating for a newcomer to the world of freelance." |
-Sue Scaff
professor of humanities
|
| "One of the hardest things with sending queries out is the lack of feedback, so it was wonderful to have a professional point out what worked and what didn't." |
-Robin Fitch
Cataloger
|
| "The course gave me the push I needed to write again. I feel like I've gained a lot in writing skill and the reading has exposed me to a lot of writers I didn't know existed. I can't think of an easier or quicker way to access feedback from other writers. I can't wait for the next course…. I enjoyed the chat room specifically when our instructor and then a member of Zoetrope publishing joined it. The information I got from those two sessions was priceless." |
-Suzanne Hamby
Student
|
| "A wonderful course that teaches how to watch movies in a new way and is also instructive if you want to begin writing screenplays yourself." |
-Emunah Herzog
Registered Nurse
|
| "Hands down, the most valuable learning experience I could have hoped for as an aspiring writer." |
-Lara Mitchell
Police and Fire Dispatcher
|
| "This has been the most stimulating and worthwhile educational experience of my adult life." |
-L. Sauda Underwood-Smith
College Administrator
|
| "Learn how to write a script in 10 weeks and also how to market yourself and your script for the industry." |
-Dan Noble
Manager
|
| "A great place to begin if you've ever asked yourself the question, "What kind of writer do I want to be?"" |
-Zarak Jan
United Nations Staff member
|
| "An excellent investment in your freelance career!" |
-Carla Curtsinger
Communications Consultant
|
| "It's all about discussing the craft and workshopping a piece that you want to see in stellar form." |
-Kimberly Wisneski
Creative Writing Tutor
|
| "If you want to write romances, start here." |
-Alice Gunther
Retired
|
| "A great introductory course to writing speculative fiction." |
-Coryn Hayman
Emergency Physician
|
| "This was an excellent introduction to speculative fiction writing and a great course for someone who has never read a book on writing craft or attempted to write before." |
-Steven Howell
US Army Officer
|
| "Just what I was looking for to expose myself to new ideas, new people and a whole new way of viewing the craft of writing." |
-Jaclyn Hoesch
Associate Product Manager
|
| "A whirlwind of a course, covering many different aspects of creative writing." |
-Dinsdale Raddatz
Bookkeeper
|
| "I never imagined that I could so thoroughly enjoy a course." |
-Lynn Rogers
Administrative
|
| "It's a very effective way of learning how to write screenplays—by reading, watching, and discussing other people's produced work." |
-Antonio Cardoso
Graduate Student
|
| "Eye-opening and worthwhile if you ever plan to try to get published." |
-John Nevola
Retired
|
| "If someone wanted to start a blog this is a great way to get the basics." |
-Jessica Alberti
Independent Writer/Photographer
|
| "I took this course unsure about the whole writing process, and this course served to awaken my excitement for reading and writing fiction. I have signed up for Fiction I, and I can't wait!" |
-Hope Teyler
Veterinarian
|
| "The Gotham Fiction II class provides a precise distillation of the mechanics of craft, drilling down into concepts taught in Fiction I." |
-Gina Kim
Writer
|
| "I've gone so often to the threshhold and yet never stepped over. This teacher enabled me to take that 'giant leap,' for which I'm very grateful." |
-Joan Pyke
Finance
|
| "A realistic, informative look into the freelance lifestyle." |
-Amie Santoleri
Advertising Executive
|
| "A fantastic overview into the world of freelancing that goes beyond simply writing query letters; it deals with the actual process of making contact as well as business considerations." |
-Shari Romar
Technical Writer
|
| "It delivered practical, in-the- trenches information by a seasoned writer and editor." |
-Lisa Talley
Marketing Consultant
|
| "Invaluable." |
-Catherine Stewart
Freelance Writer
|
| "A very informative course that will get you blogging from zero to fifty in only four weeks." |
-Aimee Swift
Pizza Delivery Driver
|
| "Great way to overcome blog/technophobia!!" |
-Elia Guldan
Admin/Teacher
|
| "How to Blog I offers a hands-on approach to blogging. It takes the mystery out of the blogosphere and gets you on track to create the blog of your dreams!" |
-Cynthia Pike-Fuentes
Public Relations Executive
|
| "Incredibly worth it." |
-Lisette Johnson
Senior Editor, NYT Almanac
|
| "The best playwriting course I have ever taken. If I had another life to live, I would spend it as playwright. Yes, I was that inspired!" |
-Judith Liberman
Student
|
| "Great intro course to article writing. I can honestly say that I now look at an article in a newspaper or magazine in a completely different light!" |
-Rupina Meer
Freelance Corporate Writer
|
| "Effective and helpful like you can't imagine." |
-Cristine Richmond
Theatrical/TV Wardrobe Asst.
|
| "Truly inspirational!" |
-Alexis Foxx
Lab Tech
|
| "I've taken writing courses in college, adult education classes and a couple of writing workshops. Fiction Writing I at Gotham has been by far the most rewarding." |
-John Daley
Cable Television Advertising
|
| "Enjoyable, inspirational and a great way to "unlock" the poetry within!" |
-Debbie Hall
Psychologist
|
| "Take this course and you'll be amazed at the incredible tools you can use to give your writing experience a great start." |
-Marco Rodríguez
Creative Consultant
|
| "An amazing learning environment." |
-Jeff Vande Zande
Community College Professor
|
| "I am walking away from this course with much more than I would have imagined and a hunger to continue travel writing." |
-M'Daya Meliani
Television Editor
|
| "The class gave a clear and concise instruction on the basics of freelancing. It provided me with many tips and straight information that are of great use. Well worth the price." |
-Ben Davol
Medical Sales
|
| "An informative class that gives you real-life examples of how to go out and sell an article. A good place to learn the framework of article-writing. By the end of this class, I had a professional pitch and the beginnings of an article that was timely, relevant, and sellable!" |
-J. L. Stermer
Literary Agent
|
| "This is an intensive, extremely smart four-week master plan for creating the perfect nonfiction proposal." |
-Tim Hall
Writer
|
| "I wanted to start a blog for over a year but didn't know how to do it. I cannot believe I got one up and running in about two weeks. Better yet, I feel like I understand what I'm doing." |
-Charlene Watler
HR Consultant
|
| "Very informative and useful for all memoir writers." |
-Chak Koonapareddy
Filmmaker
|
| "For those who are timid or unsure of the power of blogging, this class is perfect for them." |
-Octavia Randall
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
|
| "A must if you are seriously considering blogging." |
-Kathleen Miscioscio
Marketing Consultant
|
| "If the memories inside your head are as cluttered and chaotic as all those photos you still haven't put into albums, this course is a good way to start imposing some structure on them." |
-Suzanne La Muniere
IT Purchasing Coordinator
|
| "Very positive introduction to the basics of mystery novel writing." |
-Noreen Connell
retired
|
| "It opened my eyes, guided my concentration, and trained my hand." |
-Georgia Murray
freelance writer & playwright
|
| "If you want to understand publishing and if you want to learn how to write an effective query letter, this course is worth the investment." |
-Namrata Patel
Marketing Consultant
|
| "By the last two classes you actually stand in front with a mic and the lights shining at you just like a club. You can do a routine in a real club with your other classmates (but only if you want to) and in my class everyone did it and enjoyed it." |
-Larry DeCato
student
|
| "You'll be blogging by the end & learning how promote your blog. I highly recommend it. " |
-Holly Warah
Blogger
|
| "This course gives you the information you need to start a blog and feel confident about putting yourself out there." |
-Josette LeBlanc
TESOL Teacher Educator
|
| "The Travel Writing course is an uplifting journey that helps aspiring writers identify the different aspects of travel writing." |
-Jason Emilio Rodriguez
Government Public Service
|
| "The course on blogging provides everything you need to know about either starting a blog or refining an existing one." |
-Kathleen Booker
Director/Analyst, Operations
|
| "A terrific primer on how to outline and write a script for an existing TV show." |
-Amy Martin
freelance writer
|
| "The course was one of the most memorable journeys that I have taken." |
-Rebecca Eder
developmental psychologist
|
| "A must for newbie bloggers." |
-Jacquline Hopson
nuclear chemist
|
| "This is a great course, keeps your mind engaged and your fingers typing." |
-Cindy May
pilot
|
| "If you're serious about getting a blog up and going, this is the class for you!" |
-Robyn Lazara
Executive Assistant
|
| "A must for newbie bloggers." |
-Jacquline Hopson
Nuclear Chemist
|
| "The most practical and useful writing class I've ever taken, and that from someone who never liked school." |
-Andrew Glasser
Tax Accountant
|
| "If you're looking for a thorough explanation and examination of the nonfiction book proposal process, this is the course for you." |
-Kristen Levithan
freelance writer
|
| "A great way to gain insider secrets about the publishing world while at the same time gaining the opportunity to taIlor your own writing to appeal to agents and publishers." |
-Sara Tiffany
animal behavioralist
|
| "It took away the starry-eyed feeling of selling your screenplay and replaced it with practical tips on how to move forward in the topsy-turvy world of the entertainment industry." |
-Heather Donnell
writer/director
|
| "This class is a ten course tasting menu of the genres of food writing.You will leave the course with a better appreciation of food, wine, and food writing. " |
-Rebecca Eder
developmental psychologist
|
| "This course lives up to its description. It covers a wide range of writing topics and practices and really opens your eyes to the options of creative writing. " |
-Marjorie Lim
customer service
|
| "If you have always wanted to write a spec script, this class will give you the knowledge and structure to do it." |
-John Garrison
computer programmer
|
| "A fun and intriguing introductory course to children's writing that forces you to realize the amount of creativity and hard work that was poured into some of your favorite childhood stories." |
-Kera Morgan
public relations executive
|
| "This course is absolutely necessary to the beginning blogger." |
-Fawn Hahnenberg
SAHM
|
| "A delicious overview of food writing and the many forms it takes." |
-Susan Palsa
attorney
|
| "A good inspirational kick in the pants." |
-Melanie Senn
university lecturer
|
| "The teaching is some of the very best I have ever experienced. Far superior to much of what was given to me in graduate school or seminary. The teacher is gifted, gracious, patient, perceptive, and makes the craft accessible and doable." |
-Thomas Farrington
Writer
|
| "The instructor is great! I did not look up at the clock at all. The lectures and exercises were so enjoyable, I did not even think seven hours had passed." |
-Mark Pochaw
Programmer
|
| "The instructor's lectures were well crafted, and he expanded on his ideas throughout the week. The notebook assignments were extremely useful in fleshing out the characters in my book, and establishing a trigger for their conduct in my plot. But above all that, his comments on my work were stellar, he helped me to understand what I was writing, and motivated me to keep going." |
-John Fetto
Attorney
|
| "The instructor was very personable and gave intellectually stimulating lectures. He is one of the most exceptionally talented instructors I have ever encountered and that includes my college experience." |
-Gaye McKenney
Retailer
|
| "The teacher was one of the great teachers of my life (including my Yale professors!). He takes such tremendous care with each submission—it's as if he were preparing the students' novels for publication himself!" |
-Dolly Reynolds
Lawyer
|
| "The instructor had an almost uncanny ability to spot the key elements necessary to make a good story great." |
-Robert Watson
Environmental Advocate
|
| "The instructor was knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and able to give insightful, tactful, and supportive critiques of our writing. I am always impressed by the quality of your teachers." |
-Emily Goodman
ESL Teacher
|
| "The teacher is amazing. My work with her has led to several publishing credits and a much greater understanding and mastery of the craft." |
-Randall Brown
English Teacher
|
| "I've never encountered such a giving instructor who can give 150% all the time. She went the extra mile, and I do mean mile, to give us a clear understanding of the genre. She was GREAT." |
-Nancy Fields
Finance
|
| "I could not have expected more from an instructor. She was not only skilled and knowledgeable in the subject matter, but she paid a level of attention to the needs of each student that is seldom found in an instructor in any venue." |
-Ben Tilley
Retired
|
| "The teacher was absolutely fantastic! His feedback was detailed, constructive, and encouraging. His lessons were informative, easy to follow, and so very entertaining. Finally, his sense of humor is priceless. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for him." |
-Karen Savin
Consultant
|
| "This was one of the most impressive instructors I've ever had (either as an undergrad at Sarah Lawrence, a grad student at Harvard, a med student at Einstein, or a psych resident at NYU). He's very knowledgeable, approachable, encouraging, enthusiastic, and his lectures in and of themselves could constitute a textbook in the vein of Robert McKee's Story or Lajos Egri's Principles of Dramatic Writing." |
-David Salvage
Student
|
| "The instructor was one of the most articulate teachers I've had on any subject. She was also perceptive and highly intuitive. She was able to illuminate strengths and weaknesses in my writing with precision. She obviously cares about writing and about giving others the tools that will enable them to experience the rewards of writing something well." |
-Lisa M. Maranto
Tax Attorney
|
| "This was one of the most enjoyable and expertly directed classes I have ever taken. I look forward to being in one of this instructor's classes again." |
-Sebastian Mondrone
Teacher
|
| "The instructor was amazing. She was always positive, insightful, encouraging, and tremendously knowledgeable. She pushed us to do more than we believed we could and gave us the benefit of both the breadth and the depth of her knowledge, understanding, and experience of the craft." |
-Anne Woods
Attorney
|
| "The teacher is stellar!" |
-Lana Campbell
Self-Employed
|
| "The instructor is that rare person who has proven herself a success in her field, and is also able to convey her understanding of the material in a clear, easy-to-follow fashion that promotes a healthy dialogue and understanding among her students." |
-Louisa Edwards
Editorial Assistant
|
| "Our instructor was one of the most patient, thorough, and articulate teachers I've ever had. The amount of work she tackled—and the way she tackled it—was astounding. True grace under pressure." |
-Robert McGuill
Writer
|
| "I loved taking the online class! Having taken Gotham classes both online and in person, I can honestly say I didn't miss the personal experience at all. In fact, the interaction among the students may have been more extensive because everyone had time to ruminate about their critiques and to say what they might not be willing to say in person." |
-Wendy Ouellette
Stage Manager
|
| "If it weren't for online classes, I would still be picking up those Gotham course bulletins and not finding a time when I could take a live class. It's almost 4am now, and I am getting a lot of work done. PLUS, we had classmates in Tokyo, California, Israel, Ontario, Oregon, etc. Priceless mix of people." |
-Theresa Barry
Editor
|
| "I didn't know I would get so much out of a course, much less an online one. This was not only my first writing class, but my first online class in general, and I'd recommend this to any of my friends and acquaintances who show an interest." |
-Heather Gadol
Actress
|
| "Taking an online class was absolutely perfect for me. Fitting a student's life into family routine isn't always easy, but through the wonders of the Internet, I could log on whenever I had time. Contrary to my first belief, an online course can be a highly personal experience." |
-Grete Kempton
Student
|
| "I love it! I didn't think that an online class could be comparable to a real class; I never would have imagined it to be superior! Your online classes are the paradigm for all future online schools to emulate. Thanks to your class, I have already written the first 10 pages of my screenplay, and it's only the third week! You've made a lifelong Gotham student out of me." |
-Monroe Mann
President
Unstoppable Artists Business School
|
| "I loved the online experience. The convenience of being able to study in my own home, and connect with people thousands of miles away. I think it's better than an actual classroom. It allows a more flexible schedule—if you get interrupted, you can just stop and catch up later.…" |
-Brenda Sorrels
Student
|
| "I love every aspect of the online classes as you present them. This is my second one and I am thoroughly impressed with the quality of content, scope of topics, and with the high quality of instruction. The classes even allow for interaction with other class members via the weekly chats and email networking. This is an excellent educational experience. I plan to continue with other classes in the near future. Bravo!" |
-Rosemarie Ferrara
High School Principal
|
| "I was surprised at how everything worked exactly as it was supposed to. Too often there are frustrating gliches in technology-oriented things—none with Gotham Writers' Workshop!" |
-Renee Domogauer
ESOL Teacher
|
| "I was apprehensive at first about taking an online class since I am not a computer expert, and also because I wondered about a class with no face-to-face interaction. However, taking this class on the computer was so simple, I never felt intimidated. I also felt like I came to know both the instructor and the other students through their comments and class discussion." |
-Julia Gentile
Retired Attorney
|
| "I've taken a few other online writing classes, and this one stands out as the best by far. This course was worth every penny. Bravo!" |
-Laura Curvin
Web Editor
|
| "This is an almost perfect forum for a writing class. The logistics and design exceeded my expectations by a factor of thousands." |
-Adrienne Bresler
Social Worker
|
| "Don't be hung-up on the idea of a 'cold, sterile computer class' - Gotham's web design is as close to being in a friendly classroom as you'll ever experience!" |
-Jeanne Rawlings
Documentary Filmmaker
|
| "The way the website works is brilliant and the technical people are the best I have ever worked with. It is something worth looking at for someone like me in a foreign country or someone who doesn't have the time to commit to going to class at a specific time and day." |
-Jeralynn Benoit
English Trainer
|
| "I was wary of signing up blindly to something on the Internet, but this is a real class that was far better than most I took in college and grad school. It was the creative writing class I always wanted to take but was too scared to show up for in person!" |
-Lisa Bloom
broadcast journalist
|
| "Take it, take it, take it. It is lots of fun - you meet people of all ages, all walks of life from all over the world. The course is rich not only because of the excellent instructors but because of the fellow students!" |
-Kay Berryman
Retired
|
| "This was the best online course that I had found, after researching consumer reports, etc. Loved it so much, I immediately signed up for the next online class that fit my needs." |
-Kathy Conrad
Retired V.P. of R.E. Lending
|
| "What I liked most was how "real" the class and the instructor were--no cyberspace feeling. Communication was responsive, there was lots of interaction between instructor and students. I thought the whole thing was great." |
-Susan Jordan
Attorney at law
|
| "While most online courses out there seem to be pretty ineffective, I was very surprised by the quality of the instructor and the amount of positive and realistic criticism I received in the course. Worth every penny." |
-Richard Cheatham
Law Case Assistant
|
| "The class takes place in a virtual classroom. All components of the website are very user friendly. I really felt like I was attending a class each week, even though it was online. " |
-Tracy McGeehan
cook
|
| "GWW is the best online writing class I've found." |
-Richard Brooks
television producer
|
| "Every aspect of each class was a learning experience. The instructor made the minutiae as fascinating as the major subjects. It was extraordinarily well taught. I learned much more than I anticipated." |
-Graham Fuller
Executive Editor
Interview Magazine
|
| "If you want to write and receive interesting new approaches to writing, go! I learned more in the first two weeks than I did in all of college, and that cost $8,000 a semester!" |
-Gwendolyn Armitage
Student
|
| "On a scale of 1 to 5, I would rate this class a 10. The course, the fellow students, the insights, the structure, the ease of use of your Web site, and most particularly your instructor made the class one of the most wonderful, valuable, and interesting learning experiences of my life." |
-Gene DePoris
Publishing
|
| "I had finished my MFA in fiction writing and I wanted a way to continue writing in a serious atmosphere, both honest and generous. The Gotham class was fabulous. I was able to develop a character for a novel I had been working on, which is now due for publication in August." |
-Roxann King-Feuerman
Writer
|
| "I really enjoyed it and learned a lot. In terms of my writing, it was a breakthrough experience for me. I started something that I think is my best work yet, and I hope to finish it within the next six months." |
-Vicki Norris
Retired Lawyer
|
| "I have taken many writing courses over the past few years, but this is the first that has ever inspired me to write every single day. This course helped me to stretch my writing muscles beyond anywhere they'd ever been before." |
-Lisa Benwitz
Owner, Court Reporting Firm
|
| "I’ve taken many writing workshops since the age of 20, and this was the best I ever participated in." |
-Erin Dow
Public interest lawyer
|
| "I tell my friends (and anyone who will listen) that GWW is such a powerful way to improve and deepen writing skills." |
-Laura Cook
Video Editor
|
| "This course organized my imagination! I went into class with abstractions galore and emerged with a concrete script. The instructor's enthusiasm was instrumental in driving me onward, as was the enthusiasm of the class as a whole." |
-Russ Rock
Student
|
| "I finished a first draft of a play which I've wanted to write for a very long time. I couldn't have done it without this class." |
-Roslyn Yee
Actor
|
| "Since taking Stand-Up Comedy with Gotham, I have been performing in and out of New York City. My payoff came when I accepted a position at ABC radio to write comedy for the morning shows for over 200 affiliates. I owe thanks to Gotham." |
-Drew Weisholtz
Writer
ABC Radio
|
| "I learned how to write with clarity and continuity and with a reader in mind. I learned that writing is a continual learning process, constantly evolving as we develop ideas and master techniques." |
-Marcy Roberts
Customer Service Manager
|
| "It's exciting for me to be back in touch with my creative impulse. The course was very inspiring and extremely enjoyable. The instructor is very enthusiastic and seems to care a great deal about his students. It makes me want to continue what I've started. I'm looking forward to the next class." |
-Debra Flieg
Real Estate Leasing Manager
|
| "I learned a great deal. I came into this class with an extremely limited knowledge of the business of selling a screenplay. I now have enough information to approach this aspect of writing with confidence." |
-Dan Emmerson
Graphic Artist
|
| "Excellent course. No regrets. It was the springboard I was looking for. I rediscovered my desire to write." |
-Judith Rubin
Sales
|
| "If or when I get published, it will be the direct result of this class. The pace and the spacing of the material were well-planned. There was time to soak up the information presented and to apply that knowledge. This class was well worth it." |
-Tom Rizzo
Sales Communications Consultant
|
| "Gotham gave me my first glimpse into the world of screenwriting. Armed with that knowledge, I packed up and headed for Hollywood. In less than two years, I went from a student in the Screenwriting I class to staff writer on the highest-rated syndicated action hour of the season." |
-George Strayton
Staff Writer
Xena: Warrior Princess
|
| "It was a great course. I learned a lot about myself as a writer, and I felt my work tighten up noticeably. I was able to focus on writing and not fear it." |
-Stacey E Scott
Investment Banking
|
| "Every time I've come to class, I've felt as though I'm going to learn something new that I can instantly apply to my work. I've never been wrong." |
-Craig Green
Computer Consultant
|
| "Presentation is simple and engaging. I preferred this to other intensive courses I’ve taken. It was shorter, less expensive, and easier to grasp." |
-Ron Herzig
Senior Copywriter
|
| "I've taken writing classes in half a dozen universities and none have been as comprehensive and informative." |
-Mark Alpert
Graphic Designer
|
| "I really learned the basics—plot, character development, voice, tone…. Everything that was promised was delivered." |
-Elese Sullivan
Freelance Business Writer
|
| "The course got me totally back on track as a writer. I feel like a creative artist again." |
-Lori White
Writer/Editor
|
| "The class was truly inspiring. I spent most of the week thinking about our next writing assignment—the class was the high point of my week." |
-Leah Frankel
Computer Programmer/Analyst
|
| "This course was very comprehensive and fun. A whole new world has opened up for me as a result of this class. Not only have I learned about writing fiction, I have also gained considerable insight on reading fiction. What's really been a gift is that I am now a much more conscientious observer of LIFE." |
-Richard Devine
Independent Computer Consultant
|
| "A great way to do it when time is difficult to schedule. Also the anonymity is less embarrassing than parading my first fiction efforts face-to-face." |
-Bryan Marshall
Scientist and Teacher
|
| "While I’ve taken a number of writing courses in the past, this one was the most useful! The instructor conveyed both the core elements and the nuances of business writing." |
-Anya Maria Mayans
Technology Coordinator
|
| "This was a great way to break down the barriers to writing, and get that pen scribbling on paper. Good confidence builder!" |
-Agathe Blanchon-Ehrsam
Management Consultant
|
| "The instructor had an excellent command of the material and conveyed it well. I learned a great deal about "world building" in Science Fiction, and how to stretch my creative imagination in ways that fit a story structure." |
-Ann Saccomano
Student
|
| "Prior to the course, I had no clue how to go about getting my novel published. Now I have a concrete game plan." |
-Valerie Simpson Cash
Registered Nurse
|
| "I learned a great deal about the inner world and the background of the publishing scene. I was taught how to write a powerful query letter just to help open the door. This knowledge will prove to be paramount in my quest to be published, I'm sure." |
-Joe Martin
Corporate Fleet/Internet Director
|
| "The course really helped me look at memoir writing in a different way and gave me good insight into how to construct my own story in a way that is engaging, readable, and effective." |
-Daniel O'Rourke
Psychotherapist
|
| "I learned writing techniques, how to more objectively view my own work, to be persistent in rewriting, to avoid generalizing, the importance of good description...the list goes on and on." |
-Gerald Hale
Student
|
| "I learned exactly what I wanted to know: "How to get started"…what to look for, work on, and how to get organized." |
-Tracey Brant
Executive Secretary
|
| "Excellent information designed to help you cut your time in selling your screenplays. I recommend it for all those who want to sell their scripts" |
-Henry Kana
Actor
|
| "I gained determination to forge forth and see myself before a producer wanting to option my screenplay." |
-Nicole Chamberlain
Family Therapist
|
| "I learned what it takes to be a sitcom writer. I might as well have been writing for a show being produced today. I pitched ideas, made outlines, wrote draft after draft, and finally finished a full spec script." |
-Dan Acuna
Writer
|
| "It was a great intro class to inspire you to write. The teacher's dynamic personality made the seven hours fly by. I got much more than I expected!" |
-Sean Patrick
Advertising
|
| "Unlike many college writing courses, this class gave concrete technique and structure to look at and work toward. It was great to have instincts put into words." |
-Heidi Hansen-Young
Graduate Student
|
| "I like the fact that the class covered every aspect of travel writing. The class for me was quite thought provoking and eye-opening." |
-Christina Pouliopoulos
Student
|
| "Great lectures, with concise and clear tips on how to handle the major elements of the craft. The topics selected for the course were absolutely the right ones for a course of this level." |
-Brad Reddersen
Student
|
| "As a former teacher, I thought I knew how to read critically—but I learned that I had more to learn! The lectures were excellent and the assignments helpful and on the mark." |
-Karen Albrethsen
Student
|
| "I definitely learned the hidden secrets of selling something to Hollywood." |
-Tom D'Angelo
Avid Editor/ ScreenWriter
|
| "The instructor did an extraordinary job illuminating this tangled web of the publishing industry." |
-Lauren Finley
Student
|
| "I am 51 years old, and this is my first fiction writing course. It was great. It covered all the fundamentals, such as plot, setting, characterization, description, and dialogue, in a clear and comprehensive manner. I am already enrolled in the next Fiction Writing II class." |
-Gregg Carter
Physicist/Engineer
|
| "I learned a great deal about the craft of writing, and particularly about the complexities involved in science fiction and fantasy writing." |
-Briana Tillman
US Army Captain
|
| "Everything covered in the course is something I will need sooner or later in my career." |
-Lucy DeJesus
Singer/Songwriter
|
| "I learned everything I wanted to know and was afraid to ask about film and filmmaking. Script Analysis was invaluable to me, especially on the heels of my Screenwriting I class." |
-Kiva Wolfe
Writer/Publicist/Fundraiser
|
| "As dull as the concept of an online class might seem to the uninitiated, I found this advanced fiction class to be an immersive, exciting way to further my writing goals." |
-Robert Tocalino
Freelance Writer
|
| "I have read several books about the writer's craft, but the excellence of the lectures written by the instructor for this course stood out for me: She somehow found fresh angles, used particularly apt examples, and provided trenchant advice for writing and revision." |
-Angela Hahn
Veterinarian
|
| " I started a year or so ago with no experience in writing, and I have come to a point where I have an overall grasp of the craft. Now I just need to write, write, and write. I have a level of confidence that I didn't have before." |
-Paul Andreini
Physician
|
| "I like that the online class setup allows me the freedom to pursue the lessons and homework when I want (and doesn't require me to commit a certain night a week)." |
-Sarah Burgundy
Catalog Manager
|
| "The class was great. I write for a living, but this class really got me excited about my own work again. I found a group of people who speak my language…and we worked on learning more of that language together." |
-Annika Wood
Television Promotions Writer/Producer
|
| "This course covered everything a new writer has to know, and even experienced writers can benefit by a refresher. From character development, plot, and setting all the way to style and voice, it was covered well with nothing left unturned!" |
-Susan McKie
Business Owner
|
| "This is probably the most productive, well-organized class I've ever taken. My intimidations quickly vanished and I really learned." |
-Kimberly Haynes-Peterson
Advertising
|
| "We learned information in one day that it takes years to learn in the writing world." |
-Lori Allen
Freelance Writer
|
| "This course has really helped me to get started writing stories for children. Since taking the course, I have already submitted a story. I could not have gotten to this point without the instructor's help or the class' comments." |
-Karen Jones
Writer
|
| "In just one day I learned the basics of writing a children's story." |
-Alyson Shatsky
Marketing
|
| "This course expanded my knowledge of all the different types of nonfiction writing, also giving me many useful insider tips." |
-Lisa Caputo
Student
|
| "The course is perfect for someone with little or no knowledge of the different types of nonfiction. It gives you a concise, basic understanding of each genre and the basics of how to write in that genre." |
-Shelley Belgard
Textbook Editor
|
| "The course really taught me and opened my eyes to the world of writing. So much more goes into it that I imagined." |
-Missy Posner
Designer
|
| "The structure of the course is very well defined and effective. I hated to miss class." |
-Fred Rose
Actor
|
| "The instructor's skills as a writer and experience as a theater professional greatly contributed to the success of the course; in addition to advice on craftsmanship, he illuminated the position of theater when considering the production of a new work. This insight is invaluable to a greener playwright aspiring to have a first piece produced." |
-Kalle Macrides
Teaching Artist/Educator
|
| "The instructor was able to see where you want to go musically and lyrically...he helps you get there." |
-Neil Fishman
Attorney
|
| "The instructor brings a clarity and personal approach to a subject the seemed mysterious and foreboding." |
-Alain Espourteille
Student
|
| "This course changed reading for me and made it more relevant." |
-Nora Gold
Student
|
| "I learned what is needed in a memoir to make it interesting to the reader." |
-Agnes Montgomery
Student
|
| "This course was one of the best things I've done for myself to jumpstart my own work." |
-Adam Ward
Student
|
| "The one-day intensive workshop was excellent. It allowed me to test the waters, and then I registered for the 10-week session." |
-Tsahi Alexander
Travel Coordinator
|
| "We all read our query letters and that was the highlight of a thoroughly fascinating four hours!" |
-Caroline Grist
Freelance Producer
|
| "The course cleared up quite a few problems for me, and helped with a lot of my grammatical errors." |
-Sandra Nixon
Law Enforcement
|
| "I learned the essential components of writing children's literature." |
-Shirley Disu
Child Care Director
|
| "Through this course, I was able to better structure, outline, and simplify my memos and documents." |
-Karen Russell
Advertising
|
| "I learned how to harness my sense of humor and translate it into the art of stand-up comedy." |
-Adam Mutterperl
Writer/Producer
|
| "I did not have a lot of background in poetry—and I got some great exposure to different styles/forms and fine examples of each." |
-Kalyani Robbins
Prosecutor
|
| "I never wrote poetry before, and after this class I feel it's something I will continue to do. It has increased my love of the genre and given me a sense of accomplishment. Thanks for empowering me." |
-Sandy Gannon
Teacher
|
| "I learned all of the basics of children's book writing, from plot to description to characterization to targeting. I feel that I understand the whole enterprise better." |
-Kathy Esson
Social Researcher
|
| "A great course to get one's hands dirty and learn the craft of screenwriting." |
-Mandy Sayle
Student
|
| "The instructor was able to provide constructive and well-meant criticism no matter what the author's style and approach." |
-Noah Walley
Venture Capitalist
|
| "The instructor cut to the heart of screenwriting. For the novice, he established clear parameters that will enable me to take my idea and write a better screenplay." |
-Jeffrey Fox
Sales Management
|
| "This course taught me the intricacies and hidden details of making a film." |
-Jeremy Rice
Sales Representative
|
| "I learned how to see screenplays and movies with X-ray vision." |
-Jon Mangion
Teacher
|
| "I've taken this class multiple times and continue to get new learning from it." |
-Pamela Skillings
Marketing Executive
|
| "Thanks for this course. I no longer fear an empty page, I attack it." |
-Daniel Kahn
Janitor
|
| "I was introduced to many wonderful books and short stories that I would probably never had read on my own. The reading list was wonderful." |
-Francine Caldora
Legal Secretary
|
| "The instructor not only explained what to do, she also explained what not to do." |
-Stephen Healey
Retired Psychotherapist
|
| "The instructor is dedicated to his work, has mastery of his subject, and gives great attention toward helping his students realize their stories." |
-Ela Rudolph
Branch Manager
Metbank
|
| "The instructor has given me the much-needed kick start, the motivation, and the desire to follow through and finish my writing goals, one line at a time." |
-Aaron Mindel
Student
|
| "The course has helped me flesh out where I want to go as a fledgling writer." |
-Angela Billings
Health and Fitness
|
| "I really felt the instructor knew the industry and provided us with the information we needed to develop our scripts." |
-Stephanie Sila
Entertainment & Marketing
|
| "The course is both pragmatic and imaginative. The instructor's analysis of memoir as a separate genre with its own conventions is a real help." |
-William Spiegler
Retired Journalist
|
| "The best writing class I've ever taken." |
-Laura Appelman
Realtor
|
| "I learned more in this class than in any of my writing courses in college. It was extremely thorough and applicable." |
-Amanda Scott
Actor
|
| "I enjoyed all seven hours and the class has really got me excited about enrolling in the ten week course. It was a great experience." |
-Michael Sabatino
Student
|
| "The online class was a great way to fit writing into my busy schedule. The class discussions and teacher feedback were invaluable" |
-Joe Mefford
President
ScreenStyle.com
|
| "Getting published will be a difficult endeavor; however, the process is no longer a mystery. I have a valuable resource and, most importantly, I have two query letters that are almost ready for public consumption." |
-Trina Bailey
Attorney
|
| "The most valuable lesson for me was how to screen potential agents. I have been signed by an agency in the past, only to find out that nothing was being done. Had I taken the course first, this wouldn't have happened, because I would have known what to look for. I also learned that my earlier attempts to contact publishers were likely rejected out of hand due to improper set up and formatting." |
-Liane Shaw
Teacher
|
| "I basically learned the rules of the game. It's not enough to want to write a book...one must know what to do with it afterward, and this course definitely illuminated that for me." |
-Alexia Maria Di Fabio
Student
|
| "I was introduced into a world that I knew almost nothing about." |
-Raemi Eagle
Real Esate Sales
|
| "The information was invaluable. It was a great experience." |
-Marion Langley
Retired Educator
|
| "I further honed my memoir writing abilities and deepened my understanding of the issues unique to memoir." |
-Sarah Johnson
Consultant
|
| "This course has been the greatest resource I've found for furthering my writing education. There are so many elements to study that I intend to take the class again." |
-Allyson Finkel
Student
|
| "This was a great introduction to writing poetry. It was very comprehensive, and included useful and informed selections of poetry, poetic forms, and meter." |
-Jack Dodd
Psychiatrist
|
| "I learned a great deal about the art of poetry." |
-Tom Connor
Student
|
| " I now have a much greater sense of how and why my poems need revision and considerable motivation to get down to it." |
-Sheilah Solomon
Retired Senior Director
UNESCO
|
| "I have a much deeper appreciation for the work of writing romance novels than I did before starting the course." |
-Kristine Nichols
Student
|
| "I think the course is a very good primer for a novice writer, but being a writer with a lot of experience, I was impressed with how the course sharpened my abilities." |
-Bob Bowersox
Actor/Writer
|
| "The course gave me the means to make my writing sharper, better paced, and more persuasive." |
-David Goldman
Psychiatrist
|
| "I learned how to read mysteries with the eye of a writer and how to apply those principles to my own work." |
-Fran Levy
Magazine Writer
|
| "I learned the mechanical aspects of writing a mystery. And I never realized how many categories of mysteries there were. Depending on your writing style, there is a niche out there for you. Without this course I would have remained Don Quixote tilting at windmills." |
-Sam Reardon
Businessman
|
| "This course has given me the boost of self-confidence that I desperately needed." |
-Joni Shavlik
Personal Trainer/Aerobic Instructor
|
| "I equate this class to learning to read music after I've learned to play a few chords. It brought some meaning and clear understanding of some things I was already doing in my writing, and helped me understand how to evolve those fundamentals further." |
-John Doherty
Copywriter
|
| "You cannot put a price on the knowledge and constructive feedback I have gained through this class…. This is the best online format I have experienced." |
-Amy Jenkins
Writer
|
| "I loved the online courses. I could not attend class in New York. This way I live in paradise (Vancouver) and learn from people all over the world." |
-Sharron Gunn
Student
Teacher
|
| "I learned the real dirt on travel writing, such as the myths and inside information you don't see in general travel writing books. Travel writing books I've gotten at the library tend to blue-sky the occupation, and it was gratifying to know the reality behind this profession." |
-Gail Overstreet
Instructional Designer
|
| "From this course, I learned everything that is essential to being a travel writer, whether one wants to pursue travel writing as a career, sideline, or hobby." |
-Heidi Theis
Entrepreneur
|
| "I learned about the ins and outs of travel writing. I also picked up helpful ideas, refined my editing skills, and learned a great deal about other people's interests as readers of travel literature." |
-Heather Sulzen
Graphic Designer
|
| "This course provided much-needed inside information from a person who obviously has been in the business long enough to know." |
-Catherine Ennis
Editorial Assistant
|
| "Insight into the how, when, and why's of getting published. A wonderful doorway to the publishing world." |
-Mary Badalamenti
Retired Educator
|
| "1. Fabulous nuts-and-bolts tips on how to rewrite a script. 2. Bull's-eye suggestions from the instructor and the class on how to improve my script." |
-Ed Stubbing
Retired
|
| "Screenwriting II allows each student to discuss and apply screenwriting concepts and techniques to our actual work-in-progress. It is a great way to learn the art of screenwriting!" |
-Linda Matthews
Proposal Consultant
|
| "The instructor made students aware of the difficulty of breaking into the business of being published without being the least bit negative…I feel a lot more optimistic." |
-Trevor Peat
Teacher/Writer
|
| "This course reinforced all the skills from Fiction I and II in a very concrete way." |
-Sean Lapides
Student
|
| "I learned that I did have something to say—that the simplest bit of information could be turned into a story." |
-Judy Freni
Business Manager
|
| "The class was structured very well for someone who was intimidated by sharing their work. The environment was warm and safe, which made the workshop process relatively painless." |
-Jenny Spaulding
Graphic Designer
|
| "This course is wonderful. As a first-time author I was finding a lot of conflicting information about how to get published. This course cleared things up for me." |
-Melinda Finn
Student
|
| "I learned the basics of songwriting, including composition of the song, the importance of rhythm and melody, and the different opportunities available for artistic exposure." |
-Daiana Bispo
Receptionist/Club Worker
|
| "I thought everything about the course was great! The instructor, classmates, the tech support team, and I love how we are sent e-mail about anything that happens within our class." |
-Holly Jablonowski
Habitation Specialist
|
| "I have been thinking about writing for several years but could never seem to get off the mark and do anything about it. This course got me in gear and made me write." |
-Hayden Dent
Attorney
|
| "It would be hard to list in a few words all I have learned from this course. I learned from every lecture and found them interesting, absorbing, and challenging." |
-Peggy Housholder
Student
|
| "I knew nothing about writing children's stories when I began the course. Now I have a wealth of information for the future." |
-PATRICIA JOHNSON
Self-Employed
|
| "Fiction Writing II took my writing skill set to the next level. Whereas Fiction Writing I covered generalities, Fiction Writing II probed deeper, giving more detail and insight into the art of writing. I have benefited tremendously since October, when I enrolled in your writing program." |
-Gene Venditti
Graphic Designer
|
| "I learned a lot about how to approach writing. It was analogous to a drawing course I had taken once—everyone can fiddle around, but if someone shows you a different way of looking at things or approaching things, your quality and depth improves." |
-Kyla Terhune
Medical Student
|
| "I am just getting back into writing after being away from it for 25 years. The course helped to refresh my memory and to pinpoint the weak and strong areas in my writing." |
-Mary Jones
CFO
|
| "This course reignited my passion for fiction and writing. I was looking for a match, and this course lit my fuse." |
-William Willard
Police Dispatcher
|
| "I learned to identify the nuts and bolts of a feature piece, and the practical rules for putting putting a feature together." |
-Virginia Clark
Policy Analyst/Civil Servant
|
| "I learned exactly what you promised—craft. I am a much more intelligent reader now, noticing craft in books that I had simply "read" before." |
-Heather Ripmeester
Student
|
| "Every single lesson gave great insight into the craft of screenwriting." |
-Ben Smiley, Jr.
Database Coordinator
|
| "I learned about several problems peculiar to science fiction writing, along with multiple possible solutions to each." |
-Joseph Carotenuto
Telecommunications Engineer
|
| "This course was the missing link between starting my play and finishing it." |
-Gregory Phillips
Playwright
|
| "I learned skills that have given me a firm foundation to start realizing my dream of becoming a writer." |
-Erelin Emmert
Housewife
|
| "I learned what real screenwriting is about—more than I could ever learn from just reading books." |
-Darshan Thakkar
Attorney
|
| "I learned several specifics about writing a novel, such as story drivers and presenting character attitude when writing description. I also feel far more confident on how to approach the writing of a novel—what essential elements I need to map out before getting to work on writing it." |
-James Hornbeck
Retired
|
| "Very inspiring; I always started my homework on the bus, immediately after leaving class." |
-Victoria Porter
Medical Editor
|
| "I found myself excited by the class—I would rush home from work so I could read everyone's comments and submissions." |
-Elsa Kessler
Student
|
| "This course was a great adventure!" |
-Asta Hairston
Educational Administrator
|
| "I finally wrote the story for children that I have wanted to write for years. I had characters that I had illustrated a couple of years back and I had wanted to write a story to put them in. This course inspired me to do that. I have a little more editing to do, and then I plan to try and get it published. This was an excellent experience." |
-Joanna Friedman
Acupuncturist
|
| "I've read books before on script writing, but nothing compares to what I learned in this instructor's class. I've gained invaluable knowledge in such a short period of time. I am now able to use her easy to follow steps to develop the screenplay I know I'm capable of writing." |
-Scott Griffel
System Engineer
|
| "Bravo! This class reminded me that I can be, want to be, and kinda am a writer!" |
-Colleen Kenny
Managing Editor
|
| "I had not even a clue on how to start writing a play. Now I think I could start and finish one." |
-Corinne Dorso
Asst. to the Treasurer
|
| "I learned the basics of screenwriting and all the components to a great screenplay. I can't wait to sign up for Screenwriting II and take my learning to the next level. This is a great place for writers!" |
-Brenda Berry
Writer
|
| "This class was wonderful. I learned techniques for writing fiction that I never knew existed." |
-Donna Carpenter
Publishing
|
| "I loved the experience of taking this class. For someone who wants to write but lacks confidence, this is a wonderful vehicle. The fact that I have already signed up for Fiction II and this is only Week 9 speaks for itself." |
-Carllie B. Fox
Retail Sales
|
| "There were so many "Oh, I finally get it!" moments for me." |
-Sara Snyder
Public Relations
|
| "I can't believe the difference in my writing from the first assignment to the last!" |
-Kimberly Maki
Accountant
|
| "It's one thing to be writing a script, but quite another to sell it. This course is an excellent lesson in marketability." |
-Deborah Porter Taylor
Writer/Teacher
|
| "The teacher's open demeanor and availability for question-answering made it easy to ask anything." |
-Tomijean Fernandez
Organizational Development Consultant
|
| "The teacher had a working knowledge of getting writers published, and his insight was invaluable." |
-Jessica Thor
Advertising Executive
|
| "This was a hands-on course, which helped prepare students to get published." |
-James Thompson
Public Relations
|
| "I became better acquainted with the different types of nonfiction writing, and I learned a great deal about my strengths and weaknesses. It has given me an excellent foundation on which to continue to improve my craft as a writer." |
-Patricia Garrison
Public Relations Executive
|
| "Since I am a feature writer in my current job, I feel that this course has helped me perform my work better." |
-Terri Mello
Journalist
|
| "I learned how to write an engaging memoir, where before I had just scribbles of thoughts in a notebook." |
-Margret DellaMaggiora
Corporate VP
|
| "This course really helped move my understanding one step further." |
-Meera Feldberg
Real Estate Assistant
|
| "I would recommend this course to anyone who is trying to learn the basics of screenwriting." |
-Michelle Mchatton
Insurance Assistant
|
| "The course was very thorough and taught me so many things I had forgotten over the years." |
-Chelena Blount
Executive Assistant
|
| "I learned a lot about the process of scriptwriting and the business of television writing. I couldn't be more pleased." |
-Carolyn Mohr
Stay-at-Home Mom/Lawyer
|
| "This course and the instructor gave me the push and the skills that I needed to work toward completing my first book." |
-Dorothy Sims
Public Relations Director
|
| "This is my third GWW course, and I love them! The instructors are dynamic and experienced, the assignments and booth are useful and motivating, and the other students provide a great, full-bodied experience." |
-Laurie Stuart
ESL Instructor
|
| "This course was undoubtedly the best creative writing workshop I have ever taken." |
-Leisel Angwin
Communications Project Manager
|
| "It was refreshing to hear an insider's perspective." |
-Roberta Wood
Children's Author
|
| "My only writing experience has been police reports and search warrants, so this was a little scary for me. But I really embraced the assignments and the critiques." |
-Cynthia Caterson
Police Officer
|
| "I've learned that there's a lot more to romance writing than meets the eye." |
-Francisco Silva
Writer and College Instructor
|
| "I learned the mechanics of writing SF, and what makes it SF." |
-Geoff Crooks
Truck Driver
|
| "I started learning from the very first lecture, and my writing improved right from the get-go." |
-Mark Gambol
Self-Employed
|
| "I started out as a complete playwright novice. After these ten weeks, I have gained an excellent foundation and understanding of this writing genre." |
-Sue Lucrezi
Teacher
|
| "I just loved the class." |
-Megumi Sasaki
TV Producer
|
| "This course got in-depth with the elements of craft in a way that I hadn't experienced before. It will really inform my writing." |
-Abby Caran
Copywriter
|
| "This course really opened my eyes to new insights about literature." |
-Brett Juggassar
Teacher
|
| "The instructor was invaluable in explaining and illustrating how to structure a dramatic piece." |
-Dezur Kenna
Actress
|
| "The course is fantastic!" |
-Dionisios Efkarpidis
Television Graphic Artist
|
| "This course really clarified so many areas in Memoir Writing for me—especially how to structure and organize a book-length manuscript." |
-Jeanne McNulty
Writer/Weaver
|
| "I learned a ton about memoir." |
-Nancy Jacobs
Movie Marketing Executive
|
| "I've been studying the elements of the craft for years, yet the instructor was immensely helpful as I work toward completing my novel." |
-Sara Humphries
Writer
|
| "For the first time, the different genres of nonfiction defined themselves in my mind." |
-Jamieson Haverkampf
Freelance Writer
|
| "This course filled in a lot of blanks for me." |
-Valerie Coyle
Magazine Editor
|
| "Beginning to understand different forms and structures of poetry really opened up my horizons and made me think in different directions" |
-Jessica Jones
Photographer
|
| "The course gave me focus and gave me a clear definition of proper structure and how the TV writing process works." |
-Kelly Jo Brick
Creative Director
|
| "The instructor had real-world experience in the actual buying and developing of a screenplay." |
-Joseph Dixon
Architect
|
| "I learned many new tips that will be helpful in my writing career." |
-Sarah Figura
Student
|
| "I learned a lot of details from someone who knows the inside scoop. Some of these topics I already had a broad understanding of, but the teacher gave me so much more information." |
-Elizabeth Collins
Director of Photography
|
| "I was introduced to TV script writing and finished a spec script." |
-Anne-Louise DePalo
Lawyer
|
| "This course expanded my thinking on how to get published. I always knew it would not be easy—years of failed attempts proved that—-but I hadn't realized what I was doing wrong that was making it even harder." |
-Deanne Tanksley
Certified Public Accountant
|
| "My overall writing abilities have improved by leaps and bounds, and I have a new understanding of the Speculative Fiction genre." |
-Amelia Lewis
Marketing Manager
|
| "Overall very eye-opening, filled in lots of info about who the players are and how to get to them." |
-Kathy Hribar
Medical Software Consultant
|
| "I had a fairly good grounding in the mechanics of poetry before this course, but I've read and written more poetry during this class than I had in 62 years before!" |
-Dianne Meagher
Retired Teacher
|
| "It helped tap the mine of creativity in me." |
-Jane Clark
Retired
|
| "I learned how to move to a higher level of writing." |
-Charissa Haines
Associate Pastor
|
| "This course covers all the basics, which are important to focus on no matter what your level of experience." |
-John E Hooker
Medical Writer
|
| "For the first time, I felt like I was getting in touch with a process for my writing that wasn't random or subject to moods." |
-Christine Scott
|
| "All aspects of food writing were covered. I left with no questions, just motivation." |
-Michele Messina
Student
|
| "The entire experience was pleasurable." |
-Katherine Kolendo
Dramatic Writer
|
| "My main goal in taking this course was to hone the query letter for my novel. The letter I have now is far superior to the one I started out with, and I have a clearer idea of how to compose a query for future projects." |
-Phyllis Smith
College Instructor
|
| "I learned why my query letter was weak, and received ideas on how to make it stronger." |
-Cynthia K Garrett
Attorney
|
| "A great overview of freelancing in just a few hours." |
-Nancy Scola
Policy Advisor
|
| "This course is the ideal place for aspiring writers who are looking for the basic tools of writing." |
-Sarah Clapham
Assistant Producer
|
| "It was creativity boot camp! All the homework and in-class writing assignments were extremely helpful. I have a portfolio now and material to use for different projects." |
-Sarah Maxwell
Financial Services
|
| "I would recommend this course for everyone who writes regardless of experience. Conventions have changed since many people graduated from school." |
-Janice Mehringer
Sales
|
| "I learned how to get started and how to be patient with my writing. I also learned that I can learn this new craft, even if I feel I am a little bit behind in the experience department." |
-Janie Walker
Retired
|
| "The course really has made a difference and helped me to recognize more clearly my strengths as well as my weaknesses." |
-Lynne Jamiolkoski
Judicial Assistant
|
| "I owe the instructor a serious dept of gratitude, because for the first time since I was very young I am writing every day, and it feels like the top of my head has opened up to get some air." |
-Mia Sara
Student
|
| "An ideal way to fix a script that has problems that you are struggling with." |
-Nancy Bilyeau
editor
|
| "I can honestly say that I learned more in these six weeks than in other ten weeks courses combined. It's just a pity that it had to end." |
-Michaela Grunig
Investment Banker
|
| "The instructor did a good job being specific and concrete about a very difficult topic. He addressed issues I have been struggling with for years. I definitely grew as a writer in terms of my knowledge of craft." |
-Jacqueline Hardy
Lawyer
|
| "Very few courses that I've taken gave me everything I expected. This one did. The instructor made a difficult and scary experiment turn into a lifelong hobby." |
-Ken Shea
Systems Analyst
|
| "This course is incredible. The instructor loves his material and his students. He is extraordinarily dedicated, always getting work back on time and encouraging us to write more. He is so eager to impart and gain knowledge. Take a class at Gotham. Take it, take it, take it!" |
-Erin Bekowies
Book Publishing Production Associate
Random House
|
| "I thoroughly enjoyed the course, instructor, and students. This is really the best experience with a course I've had. I thought the instructor's comments were very helpful, not sugarcoated, and were always very insightful and incisive." |
-Veronica Hackethal
Financial Analyst
|
| "The instructor was a constant source of inspiration, a supportive and perceptive critic. Thanks again for a course that has been very important to me...as a person, as a student, and as a teacher." |
-Harvey-Ann Ross
Teacher
|
| "The instructor made me really want to write every day, an amazing feat considering I spend up to 12 hours a day working as a television news producer. Thanks to this course, I actually lost sleep because I was busy writing. And I was happy about it!" |
-Jill Tate
Network News Producer
|
| "The teacher was the best online instructor I've ever had. His lectures were presented in a clear, distinctive way. With student assignments, he did not ask too little and did not ask the impossible. He gave timely and much needed advice without diminishing one's ego." |
-Mary Louise Santacaterina
Student
|
| "The instructor illuminated some common writing components in a new and more useful way. Point of view, characterization, and style were suddenly much easier to understand than they had ever been for me." |
-Sarah Grant-Keelin
Psychotherapist
|
| "The instructor was extremely insightful and offered meaningful, individualized commentary designed to allow for the tremendous growth of each and every potential writer." |
-Susan Avery
Journalist
|
| "I love that the teacher is in the business herself, so you saw how a song originated from idea to HIT! And when she needed to, she'd pick up her guitar and explain musically." |
-Eric Sanchez
Bartender
|
| "If this instructor had been my professor in college, I probably would have chosen writing as a career. He really got me past my shyness and helped me discover abilities I didn’t know I had." |
-Muriel Haber
President & CEO, Management Real Estate Co.
|
| "The instructor was one of the most professional and prepared teachers I’ve ever had." |
-Mario Gonzalez
Web Developer
|
| "I especially liked the fact that the instructor had not only a writing and teaching background but also actually worked as a private investigator. This gave him a certain authority when discussing investigative techniques that increased students' comfort with a field most of us have only experienced vicariously." |
-Patricia Foulk
Public Affairs Director
|
| "The instructor is wonderful, with loads of experience in writing romance novels. She is very helpful and open in her advice and gives wonderful, constructive feedback. This is the second time I took the course—to continue in an ongoing project—and the feedback from the instruction was well worth the price of the course." |
-Erin Richards
Business Development Manager
|
| "I enjoyed interacting with the diverse student body. The instructor was knowledgeable, and made it easy for anyone to follow her lectures. The dialogue between classmates and the instructor was great." |
-Michelle Brown
Consultant
|
| "The lectures were very thorough and the professor dedicated her time to help me individually with my query letter." |
-Anna Erickson
Teacher
|
| "I think it's great—convenient and you receive lots of concrete information you can print out. The agent/instructor brought the real world of publishing to us—even though it isn't always a pretty place." |
-Cynthia Mines
Journalist
|
| "I learned some fundamental elements of writing for children. This course was extremely well organized. I was impressed with this from the first interaction. The instructor was wonderful. She was quite honest, and didn't just give us fluff about our writing. She really spent time looking at our work and analyzing the writing." |
-Sally Sizemore
Student
|
| "The teacher is clearly passionate and dedicated to the subject matter. Her years of experience provided insights I could not have gained elsewhere." |
-Jackie Gibbs
Social Worker
|
| "The course brought me to a higher consciousness in my ability to read as a 'reader' but more importantly as a writer. The enthusiasm the instructor showed for his writing as well as his enjoyment of teaching were extremely encouraging." |
-CJ Carpenter
Music Production
|
| "FUN! We had lots of laughs, and the instructor made a very comfortable learning environment." |
-Kristen Barton
Account Executive
|
| "The instructor took me in new directions with her unexpected candor, high expectations, and thorough preparations." |
-Kathleen Watt
Graphic Arts
|
| "The instructor was extraordinary. Funny, quick, positive, and very clear. She made the material live, in the sense that her exercises and lectures helped me experience firsthand the joys and challenges of screenwriting." |
-Barbara Morris
Tour Manager
|
| "The instructor took the mystery out of mystery writing. Inch by inch, from the title, to the opening, on to the MacGuffin, and finally to how to deal with agents and publishers, he taught us the ins and outs of this mystery writing business." |
-Pamela Weaver
Interior Designer
|
| "The instructor is very knowledgeable, approachable, and committed to the students. The lectures were thorough and instructive. I'll probably go back to them many times over the coming years." |
-Ranjan Das
Vice President, Software Company
|
| "The instructor created a nurturing and caring environment where it felt safe to open up." |
-Deidre Johnson-Cane
Physical Therapist
|
| "I felt like I was back in the third grade with my favorite teacher, who never judged...only nurtured, supported, and gave me the wings to fly." |
-Allyson Slater
Journalist
|
| "The instructor's presentations were inspiring and her critiques of my writing were dead-on." |
-Mary Tahan
Literary Agent
|
| "The instructor created an atmosphere so dynamic... each student opened the door to his or her writing potential." |
-Sheldon Rifkin
Retired
|
| "The instructor had an incredible ability to see where we wanted to take our pieces and to move us in that direction—seemingly of our own volition." |
-Jim Fuchs
Teacher
|
| "The instructor is one of the best I've ever had." |
-David Andrews
Photographer/Web Developer
|
| "I've taught music composition for 20 years or more, so I feel I'm well qualified to evaluate the teacher, and he is superb." |
-Conrad Cummings
Composer
|
| "The instructor was well prepared, concise, informative, and—of course—funny!" |
-Anne Diamond
Teacher/Musician
|
| "The instructor was organized, spirited, humble, involved, and knowledgeable." |
-Manav Sachdeva
Student/Poet
|
| "The instructor was knowledgeable and realistic about all aspects of screenwriting." |
-Sheilagh Casey
Editor
|
| "The instructor is one of those teachers that immediately makes you feel you are in the right place. Not only does she have strong command of the material, she delivers it with enthusiasm and the desire to make sure the students really understand." |
-Joshua Kornreich
Investment Analyst
|
| "I can't say enough about what this course has given me. The instructor was incredibly informative and articulate. I’m disappointed it's over." |
-Sabrina Cohen
Interior Designer
|
| "The instructor covered the material in a way that was a complete road map for how to write well and get published." |
-Priscilla Dunne
Real Estate Broker
|
| "The teacher's real-world experience made her advice very credible." |
-Carrie Black
Student
|
| "Even though the class is online, the teacher is able to transcend the medium, creating an active, committed, effective learning environment." |
-sandi behrens
Instructional Designer
|
| "The instructor knows her stuff, and it shows. Very illuminating course. Now I feel I have a much better understanding of how a screenplay gets sold." |
-Kerry Dachos
Homemaker
|
| "I loved the flexibility, and the quality of the instruction was unsurpassable." |
-Lynn Hoffmann
Retail Manager
|
| "I found the instructor extremely straightforward and informative. A true pro!" |
-Susan Feitelberg
Student
|
| "The instructor gave a no-nonsense insider's look in the wild kingdom of the publishing industry, from a careful portrayal of the characters that inhabit it to the perils, pleasures, and pitfalls we are likely to encounter along the way. Finally, she armed us with a clear understanding of the kinds of tools and skills we need to make our way successfully through this jungle." |
-Sharron Mendel
Consultant
|
| "The instructor had a great ability to explain things. If I found myself not understanding, she elaborated, provided examples and guided me." |
-Anne Leary
Unix Database Administrator
|
| "The instructor had a gift for defining and giving clarity to complex subjects. And she has a wonderfully positive way of critiquing work that encourages you to take risks." |
-Marty Stephens
Computer Programmer
|
| "The instructor was terrific. His examples and explanations were easy to understand and his lectures were outstanding." |
-Patricia Mikulec
Computer Consultant
|
| "I loved the instructor—very informed, very interactive, very thoughtful." |
-Julia Hollinger
Teacher
|
| "The instructor had the expertise, due to her experience." |
-Thomas Fournier
Retired Social Worker
|
| "Instructor had an incredible understanding of dialogue." |
-Adam Lawson
Movie Director/Writer
|
| "The instructor was very clear, very direct, and had excellent interaction with the students." |
-Mark Shulman
Children's Book Writer
|
| "The instructor was down-to-earth, knowledgeable, and accessible for questions." |
-Jen Hilt
Nurse
|
| "The instructor earns 5 stars in my eyes!" |
-Tara Rose Coyote
Importer
|
| "The instructor is a master of her craft. Her understanding and insightfulness, combined with her vast knowledge, made this the most enjoyable writing class I have ever taken." |
-Thomas Rogers
Sales Trainer
|
| "Very informative. The instructor conveys her knowledge and passion for the travel-writing industry very clearly." |
-Anne Fitzpatrick
Editor
|
| "I couldn't imagine a more complete course. The instructor brought his years of experience to us in very clear and concise lectures. His ability to constructively critique our writing offered inspiration and guidance." |
-Nona Lloyd
Director/Producer
|
| "The instructor was an excellent teacher who really knew how to put difficult, abstract concepts into crystalline focus." |
-John Diller
Student
|
| "The instructor was the first writing instructor I ever had that actually gave constructive criticism. After every one of her comments I felt that I had been given a little gift." |
-Erin Foster
Student
|
| "The instructor was very professional, very helpful, and very dedicated." |
-David Seaborn-Jones
Writer
|
| "The course is well-structured and moves swiftly through several topics to give a complete look at writing. The instructor showed expertise, professionalism, and interest in helping each classmate. Her lectures were well written and she challenged each of us. I am going to miss her." |
-James Starrette
Woodworker
|
| "The lectures and the feedback from the instructor were excellent—and I say that as a teacher myself. (We teachers tend to be hypercritical.)" |
-Cindy Bendshadler
College English Instructor
|
| "The instructor breaks down the art of writing screenplays into an understandable and tangible process. What feels like an albatross at the beginning becomes a manageable goal throughout the course." |
-Amy Kitts
Administrative Coordinator
|
| "The instructor had an incredibly lucid way of teaching and a mastery of her subject. Both her lectures and her critiques were concise, to the point, funny, and full of valuable insight. I learned tons from her." |
-Will Crosby
Illustrator/Artist
|
| "The instructor was excellent! She has real knowledge of the music industry and is truly a songwriter. She does this for a living and supports herself from this. She is very talented and offered us help and encouraged us all along the way. She is fantastic at what she does." |
-Devon Sangiovanni
Songwriter
|
| "The teacher was a marvel, really committed and making the most of this forum. Her generosity and consistent interest in the students inspired me." |
-Sara Fasy
Artist
|
| "I'm 63, and with teachers of this caliber I could look forward to a lifetime of learning wherever I reside." |
-Marc Kouffman
Student
|
| "The instructor was very enthusiastic about teaching and bringing out the talent, any talent. I think he even squeezed talent out of us." |
-Jenn Mancini
Business Development
|
| "I felt that there was a concise, thorough overview of all key elements. The instructor was warm, receptive, spontaneous, and kept a very natural, comfortable pace throughout all phases of the material. The time flew by and was invigorating, not at all stressful, boring, or numbing." |
-Shelia Spencer
Writer
|
| "I loved the spirit, energy, and enthusiasm of the instructor—she's infectious!" |
-Vicki Eskenazi
Special Education Administrator
|
| "The instructor is articulate and masterful as a writer and an instructor. He made the class environment vibrant. His willingness to help his students and the insights he gave are par excellence. I would pay good money any day to take this instructor's class." |
-Joel Zabaldo
Marketing
|
| "This instructor is undoubtedly the most exciting and knowledgeable teacher I've ever had." |
-Beverly A. Jackson
Publisher/Editor
|
| "The instructor is a great facilitator, guide, and mentor. What a gem!" |
-Nitza Agam
Teacher
|
| "The instructor enjoys poetry so much that his enthusiasm for it automatically infuses you with the same enthusiasm." |
-Marne Chadderton
Retired Legal Secretary
|
| "The instructor was generous with her attention to each of us, and I felt she was personally responsible for some "ah-ha!" breakthroughs in improving a piece of writing (mine and others')." |
-Elizabeth Drewry
Retired
|
| "The energy and enthusiasm of the instructor were an inspiration, as was as her seemingly boundless knowledge of the genre and writing in general. She was a real mentor and role model." |
-Jennifer Wilkinson
Administrator
|
| "I have taken three or four classes at Gotham and have found each instructor extremely well-qualified and a great person." |
-Jo LoCicero
Educator
|
| "This was my first online class, and it will be the only way I'll ever take a class again. It was never boring. There were no classroom distractions and no 45 minute late-night drives. I could get up to make a cup of tea, listen to my favorite CDs, print out the lectures, and read them at my leisure. What could be better?" |
-Carol Davidsen
Office Manager
|
| "I think it was a blast. I got an avalanche of material I could utilize for a long period of time, and loved the convenience of not having to go anywhere to do it. I lead a busy life and found it to be a fabulous asset to sit down at any time and read or critique or go over a lesson." |
-Marcus Colelli
House Painter/Stand-Up Comic
|
| "Thanks for an amazing online class. It was by far the best writing class that I’ve ever taken and right up there among the best classes of any kind I’ve ever taken as well." |
-Liz Duffy
Foundation Executive
|
| "This has definitely been a positive way to work. The deferred-time aspect provides the flexibility necessary for an international group. How else could people stretched across some twenty time zones from Ohio to New Zealand via Europe and Israel work together?" |
-Tim Bowler
Journalist and Translator
|
| "This is a real advantage for someone like me who lives far from New York. I was happy to have found it." |
-Ilona Koop
Student
|
| "I found the online format to be quite valuable as it allowed me to participate when I really didn't have the time. By freeing me from scheduled participation, I could stay current with the lectures and work at odd hours." |
-Howard Greenhalgh
Chief, Records Management
US Army
|
| "I am very impressed with the professionalism of the course and that of the instructor.... Gotham provides all the expertise to make online writing classes work efficiently even for me, a relatively new student of the computer world." |
-Elizabeth Walton
Interior Designer
|
| "The way the Web site is set up is excellent. The instructor is extremely personable and knowledgeable. He is able to give strong critical feedback and still be encouraging, a real feat!" |
-Elaine Avila
Playwright, Actor
|
| "The organization of the site is great. Easy to move around. Clear. Super!" |
-Remko Jansonius
Museum Curator
|
| "The great advantage to taking an online course is flexibility. I work full time and have a child. The fact that I could fit the course around my life rather than adapting my life to the course made all the difference—so much so that I've already enrolled for next term." |
-Malin Jennings
Vice President, Public Affairs
|
| "I was more than pleased with how the course worked online. There was a real connection between all of us who participated. Gotham did a seamless job of keeping us informed and connected." |
-Laurie Parker
Dental Ceramist
|
| "I really loved the experience of the online class. I will definitely take more classes in the future." |
-Aimee Dale
Mother
|
| "I love the online experience, and each class has been better than the last. I like the freedom of an online class, and as I have taken progressively more advanced classes, I have discovered the class interaction has also increased and been very good indeed." |
-Victoria Butler
Writer/Editor
|
| "It was great taking this course online. I am now writing short stories. This is something that I have always wanted to do. Without the course, I am not sure when I would have done it. Taking the course online made it possible." |
-Eugene Lowe
Lobbyist
Ft. Washington, MD
|
| "The online class experience has literally changed my life. I now see myself as a writer. Thanks to the support and guidance I received from my Gotham instructor and my classmates, I now have the courage and confidence to begin the long process of submitting my work." |
-Jill Saigusa
Homemaker/Teacher
|
| "I am very glad I made the decision to take this course. The structure really helped me get writing, stay writing, and improve the writing I did get done! Everything on your Web site worked as promised. It was easy to use and free of glitches. Wonderful." |
-Melanie Mcleod
Teacher
|
| "I've found a writing community that I can take with me anywhere I can take my computer. I don't have to go out late at night on scary college campuses, decide what to wear, drive home on freeways at night—the list is endless, so I'll end it there. But there's more." |
-Julie West Staheli
Student
|
| "Online courses are great. I could access my course materials anytime and anywhere; whenever it was convenient for me. It brought the classroom right into my own living room." |
-Colleen O'Keefe
Associate Marketing Manager
|
| "I found myself able to let go. I did terrible in school when I was younger...a traditional classroom is the last place on Earth I belong. But I'm a totally different person in an online classroom. It was great for me. If high school had been online I would have graduated at the top of my class." |
-Rachel Crain
Health Spa Manager
|
| "Having taken and liked a few live Gotham classes, I wanted something truly convenient. The online medium means no time spent waiting for trains, more time to focus on the class material and, ultimately, on writing." |
-Nancy Festinger
Interpreter/Translator
|
| "I found it very stimulating having such a small class and will continue to stay in contact with my fellow students. A real bond was formed between us and the instructor that I will not soon forget." |
-Linda Lane
Pharmacist
|
| "I am an avid fan of the online classes. I like the convenience of attending the lectures as my schedule permits. I am enabled to attend classes with first-rate teachers without traveling great distances. My classmates are from various parts of this country as well as from other countries." |
-Elizabeth Pye
Retired University Administrator
|
| "This course permits those of us stuck in the hinterland to get a glimpse of the real world of writing. Short of moving to New York City, the course could not be much better. Forbes was right!" |
-Marvin Wilson
Student
|
| "Despite the fact that we were online, the instructor immediately created an atmosphere of warmth, humor, and acceptance in the class. She made herself enormously available and set a tone for enjoyable and rigorous group learning." |
-Anne Morgan
Psychologist
|
| "I love the online possibility! Sitting here in Santa Fe and having outstanding teachers from New York or other areas is one of the great benefits of this method. I love being able to create my own time structure—I would not do it otherwise. Your Web site functions very well; I am amazed how everything is connected and one thing reacts to the other. Well done!" |
-Shanti Bannwart
Psychotherapist
|
| "I live in a small town. We don't have the benefits of a metropolitan talent pool. The online class gave me the chance to take a class from a school in New York right from my kitchen table." |
-Leslie Colvin
Writer
|
| "The Web site is a marvel. It works seamlessly." |
-Earl Pye
Chemistry Professor
|
| "The online class was fantastic for time management. I had a newborn baby when I started the class, and my friends thought I was crazy studying when my daughter was so young, but the online class allowed me to study while she was sleeping. It gave me the perfect balance without the pressure of having to attend class each week." |
-Stephanie Salisbury
Business Analyst
|
| "I love taking an online class! It is Sunday morning, my husband and children are still sleeping, the house is quiet, and I'm sitting here in my pajamas with a cup of coffee learning how to write! It's fantastic! There are too many places I have to be every week, and I can complete my course without leaving the house, whenever I want to." |
-Carol Krakower
Speech-Language Pathologist
|
| "This worked really well for me. What an incredibly cool thing for those of us who are isolated by either time or place to be able to take an online class." |
-Candace Chase
Stay-at-Home Mother
|
| "I live in Hong Kong, and I found it fabulously easy to participate in my own time zone and not feel any different." |
-Jennifer Chen
Domestic Engineer
|
| "Gotham really changed my mind about online classes. I'm now about to start my third Gotham class!" |
-Jason Shaffner
Consultant
|
| "I really prefer the online format. It requires you to to be more thoughtful and articulate about what you are trying to say—especially when reviewing other classmates' work." |
-Virginia Glenn
Marketing Consultant
|
| "The instructor was very unintimidating; she seemed real and down to earth in her interactions with the class." |
-Virginia Tubeck-Drozd
Freelance Writer
|
| "We were given clear, concrete tools. The course did a great job demystifying the art of fiction writing and fostering confidence. The instructor brought complex concepts down to earth. I will miss coming here every week." |
-Miguel Ferrer
Actor
|
| "Writing was something I always thought was an unreachable talent. Now I've learned to do it, not dream about it." |
-elizabeth connaughton
Art Director
|
| "I stopped thinking about writing and simply wrote. I've gained a sense of fearlessness." |
-Scott Barrow
Assistant Production Manager
|
| "You can only learn to write by writing. Gotham Writers' Workshop allows you to do that in a supportive environment. It's everything a writer could ask for." |
-Sandy Hausler
Attorney
|
| "I've been a Gotham student for a year now, and I'm amazed at how much my story writing has improved. My instructor has been a very important part of that improvement. I've matured as a writer, and that inspires me to write more." |
-Pete Grella
Engineer
|
| "Gotham Writers’ Workshop gave me a reason to write, the jump start I needed. It helped me overcome the insecurities about my writing that had kept me silent for years." |
-Andrew Oliver
Manager, Client Accounting
|
| "There was a depth of sharing and trust that seldom occurs in life. I think the online format helped in this—we were forced to relate purely through the written word. What could be better for writers?" |
-Alice Wertheimer
Web Consultant
|
| "Before enrolling in this course, I had been blocked up for years, and what little I was able to write I had great difficulty bringing to completion. I came to Gotham Writers’ Workshop and wrote more in the first five weeks of the term than I had throughout the previous five years combined! If I had realized how inspiring the course was going to be, I’d have enrolled in it years earlier." |
-Ed Askinazi
Film Editor
|
| "The instructor took the mystery out of writing, but not the magic." |
-Karin Hogan
Marketing Consultant
|
| "I loved this class. I learned to enjoy the script I’m working on, and I actually look forward to working on it, instead of dreading it—a considerable accomplishment for me! This is the third writing class I’ve taken in two years and by far my favorite of all three." |
-Robin Hoffman
President
Pipeline Communications
|
| "This is my third Gotham Writers’ Workshop class. I never wrote a short story before the first. Now I’m hooked and can feel myself improving." |
-Colleen Murphy
Marketing Communications
|
| "I'm writing! That's what I wanted most, and that’s what I got." |
-Toi Mooty
Writer
|
| "I’ve taken quite a few writing workshops in college and beyond. This is by far the best." |
-David Maj
Firefighter
|
| "I learned the power of starting. The schedule of submissions made me start, and wow—I finished two short stories in ten weeks." |
-Suzanne O'Donnell
Actor
|
| "You offer the best writing classes in New York City. Gotham guided me through my apprenticeship and made me a journeyman writer." |
-Gilbert Sprague
Children's Book Author
|
| "Thanks to Gotham Writers' Workshop I stopped talking and started writing." |
-Marjorie Borell
President
Results Only Communications
|
| "Once I started the class at Gotham, I realized that writing, like any other craft, is a skill that can be learned. Now those once elusive elements of form as well as the proper tools were spread out before me. And although I know I have more editing and writing ahead of me, I also now know what it takes to get the job done." |
-Beth Ellwanger
Owner
The Better Body Firm
|
| "I loved this class. For a very reasonable price, I got structure from an experienced professional, as well as support from my peers. I went from wanting to write, unable to even IMAGINE submitting my work, to seeing myself as a writer, and a pretty good one, ready to market myself with confidence." |
-Tulasi Payne
Writer
|
| "I enjoyed the course even more than I thought I would. Gotham packs a lot of information into ten short weeks." |
-Kenia Maldonado
Registered Nurse
|
| "Gotham Writer's Workshop was a godsend for me. When I started taking classes, I worked in the travel industry, which made keeping regular hours impossible. The instructor was giving with her time, encouraging with her praise, and thorough when it came to sharing her knowledge. I'd highly recommend Gotham Writer's Workshop to anyone interested in exploring their dreams of writing." |
-Toni Allardice
Student
|
| "I cannot speak highly enough about the resource that Gotham is for writers. We are no longer on that journey alone. We can work at our craft all of the time with qualified, experienced, knowledgeable instructors. Thank you Gotham." |
-Pene Patrick
Filmmaker
|
| "The best teaching technique I have encountered since I came to America." |
-Ekaterina Svetova
Graphic Designer
|
| "The instructor was incredibly supportive and encouraging. The group was wonderful. What an experience!" |
-Susan Oliver
Director
|
| "It was the best writing experience I've ever had...and I'm 62 years old." |
-Margaret Levine
Editor
|
| "Many say that New York City is the center of the publishing world. The Gotham Writers' Workshop enabled me to tap into the nutrients concentrated there, despite being thousands of miles away on the west coast. It connected me with like-minded people around the country and beyond. And I was stunned by the caliber of instruction." |
-Stephen Kane
Writer & Software Consultant
|
| "I received the course as a present, and it is the best present anyone has ever given to me." |
-Lauren Hershkowitz
High School Teacher, CPA, Mother
|
| "I'm glad you exist." |
-Ralph A. Leonart
Attorney & Writer
|
| "Gotham has huge respect for its students." |
-Elaine White
English Language Teacher
|
| "I haven't attempted creative writing to be shared in over 30 years so I was very appreciative of the opportunity to jump in and not drown immediately. I learned a great deal about form as well as some interesting things about my style and voice, which I continue to work with daily." |
-Pam Bonter
Business Owner
|
| "Each time I take a writing course with Gotham I gain new insights" |
-Karen Osborne
Consultant & Trainer
|
| "I feel I am firmly on the road to my first book, and I wouldn't be on this road without you guys." |
-Helen Newman
Writer
|
| "I gained an in-depth knowledge of film. This class is essential to screenwriting." |
-Carrie Kauzlarich
Writer
|
| "This course took what had been a mystery and turned it into something I could not only understand but apply." |
-Jim McElroy
Retail Sales
|
| "I began the course with a particularly difficult project in mind. This course helped me finish a first draft of a play that I have wanted to write for a long time." |
-Tara Goldstein
University Professor
|
| "This course gave me a solid overview of the elements of mystery writing, and an idea about how to put them together." |
-Carla Norcott-Mahany
Lobbyist
|
| "It was a wonderful experience. I learned a lot, and I believe I grew a great deal as a writer." |
-Ariella Benshmuel
College Student
|
| "I started writing with the first exercise assigned, and I really enjoyed it. I've been writing every day." |
-Andrea Morcone
Library Assistant
|
| "The course offered very useful behind-the-scenes information." |
-Marilyn Valenciano
Social Worker
|
| "Great course. The feedback was positive, and the suggestions for improvement were very helpful." |
-Jennifer Moore
Product Manager
|
| "The class was a good grounding in the basics. It clarified and made writing stories much more approachable—a good springboard." |
-Debbie Jenkinson
Animator
|
| "I have gained a better understanding of my abilities and where I need to concentrate my efforts. The instructor kept things light and understandable." |
-Mark Ferrara
Publishing
|
| "I learned a great deal…I have already recommended Gotham to others." |
-Larry Nelson
Retired Law Enforcement Officer
|
| "This course is a great way to be introduced or reacquainted with the nuts and bolts of creating a fictional story." |
-Julie Meintel
Student
|
| "This course gave me an appreciation for great fiction and also will help with my writing since I now know there is a method to the madness. Additionally, it got me reading again, which may be the most important of all." |
-Tom Watson
Student
|
| "I learned about myself and what I hope to accomplish as a writer and traveler." |
-Christian Lewis
Reporter
|
| "I was introduced to a whole new aspect of poetry. I am a much more versatile and open-minded writer for it." |
-Stephanie Salerno
Student
|
| "I have greatly expanded my knowledge of poetic techniques and... the richness and possibilities of the poetic form." |
-Phil Roberts
Public Servant
|
| "I have been given excellent tools to help organize and create my memoir." |
-Jody Gardner
Educator
|
| "For me, the most useful thing was to keep writing something every week." |
-Elizabeth Baskin
Creative Director
|
| "It was a good overview of the subject of memoir writing. I learned the basic components and where to start." |
-Julie Hanssen
Social Worker
|
| "A very broad spectrum of information for a one-day course." |
-Lara Delle Donne
Ad Sales Coordinator
|
| "We learned a little of every category related to grammar." |
-Roger Morrison
Student
|
| "I learned a great deal about the many forms of poetry and developed a greater understanding and appreciation for reading and writing it. A great class." |
-Brian Connaughton
Advertising
|
| "The course has helped me to see more options to choose from in writing poetry, which also helps me to understand different poetic voices." |
-Richard Bornstein
Student
|
| "It's a fun class, and the instructor always has ways to improve your material." |
-David Potashnik
Programmer
|
| "The instructor really illuminated the ins and outs of children's book writing and also opened my eyes to a whole plethora of kids' books." |
-Heather Chaet
Student
|
| "I established a firm foundation. It is a great beginner's course. The instructor was wonderful—very personable, knowledgeable, and she made everyone feel comfortable." |
-Anthony Riche
Clinical Hypnotherapist/Motivational Speaker
|
| "The course covered every aspect of screenwriting, and the instructor gave me tools that improved my grasp of how to write cinematically." |
-Jennifer Sotham
Writer
|
| "This course offered a great outline of the aspects of screenwriting." |
-John Diaz
Student
|
| "The group feedback really helped me to hone my script." |
-Melanie Bates
Writer
|
| "I learned how to take apart a completed work and see its numerous parts." |
-Radu Stancut
Data Analyst
|
| "This course went beyond what I expected. It was amazing!" |
-Doug Goodrich
Actor
|
| "A great introduction to the craft of writing fiction." |
-Kelly Donahue
Student
|
| "This course was helpful in explaining the different types of children's books one can write and clarifying what age-group each targets." |
-Jennifer Alexander
Fundraiser
|
| "I was able to refine my pitch-writing skills and obtained a general understanding of how to get doors to open." |
-Cheryl Farr
Chemical Engineer
|
| "Good one-day overview. Great examples that I look forward to studying more. I liked the combination of information, topics, examples, and having us writing as well." |
-Eliza Bates
Nurse
|
| "I would not hesitate to recommend this course to anyone who is serious about a writing career." |
-George Strout
Writer
|
| "It was an interesting behind the scenes look at the publishing world." |
-Carrie Voorhis
Copywriter
|
| "This course gave me an in-depth analysis of the industry and enlightening information about the people within it." |
-Tom Lance
Accountant
|
| "It was a good overview of the business and craft of travel writing. The instructor covered the realities of the business and the essential elements that go into good travel journalism. The instructor also explored the different types of travel writing and how to adapt one idea to different mediums." |
-Rise Mattler
Student
|
| "This course provided a source of insight to some of the secrets behind good writing." |
-Kymberli Roberts
Student
|
| "I gained perspective on how a work of fiction is created." |
-Lisa Neil
Lawyer
|
| "I love the way the course was taught in an organized form with clear topics each week. It made writing seem achievable!" |
-Kathryn Veatch
Student
|
| "I learned how to break down the elements of fiction writing and put them back together in a coherent story." |
-Elizabeth Seabrook
Non-Profit Staff
|
| "I found myself surrounded by others who value good writing as much as I do." |
-Louis Anzovino
Student
|
| "This was an all around great experience for me—hearing other writers' stories and having my own critiqued." |
-Ginger Kuenzel
Corp. Communications Manager
|
| "The course has been a very positive experience for me. It helped me overcome a long-standing [case of] writer's block and greatly increased my confidence." |
-Campbell Kaiser
Self-Employed
|
| "I have taken many online training courses, and this is the best one I have ever had. The format was really quite effective in that it divided the components of the course into different sections: the lecture with discussion, the notebook/assignments, and the chat section. This kind of modular design facilitated effective learning and easy navigation." |
-Maria Pere-Perez
Senior Manager, Alliances
|
| "The course was structured extremely well, with each lesson a definite building block on the last. The instructor was able to explain each very well, and used great examples to help illustrate her points." |
-Kristan Reid
Advertising
|
| "I learned what it takes to develop a believable romance novel." |
-Kathy Neff
Store Clerk
|
| "I learned how to avoid certain pitfalls when writing science fiction." |
-Todd Miller
Graphic Artist
|
| "I learned a great deal of the basics of selling a screenplay, a pitch, a log line, etc., as well as some useful directories for info." |
-Richard Aab
Actor
|
| "I learned the ABC's of children's book writing." |
-Rachel Cohen
Magazine Writer
|
| "This class was an excellent primer in mystery writing." |
-Cassandra Ritas
Policy Analyst
|
| "The course was very full of great information and exercises. I doubt you could fit more in." |
-Mary Power
Graphic Designer
|
| "Everything was built toward the student feeling like a real writer." |
-Colin Morton
Software Support Consultant
|
| "There is no possible way to list all that I have learned from the course, instructor, and my fellow classmates." |
-Rhys Patterson
Student
|
| "I had always dreamed about writing short stories. The instuctor helped inspire me and made me realize I could write a good story after all." |
-Marilyn Bassano
Homemaker
|
| "The instructor was wonderful. His weekly comments and lectures were fresh, astute, and delivered in an amusing, funny, charming manner. He is insightful and knowledgeable and rates a "10" in my book. I'm off to Level II!" |
-Joseph Wilford
Fish Buyer
|
| "The instructor was very motivational, positive, and easy to follow." |
-Lisa Farley
Student
|
| "The instructor's extensive knowledge of travel writing and her professional experience were very valuable…" |
-Lucia Kegan
Student
|
| "The instructor was entertaining and conveyed ideas well." |
-Michael Hall
Student
|
| "The instructor created a warm climate that made me feel comfortable and, I think, really drew out all the students in the class. The class had a really nice vibe." |
-Melinda Axel
Business Analyst
|
| "I was very impressed by the instructor's depth of knowledge and his intelligence." |
-Karen Bingham
Attorney
|
| "The instructor gives you the tools necessary for success." |
-Kye Giscombe
Entrepreneur
|
| "The instructor has very good suggestions for all the students on how they can improve their writing and performance." |
-Alison Moran
Project Manager
|
| "The instructor was a wealth of information on every topic." |
-Kate Hustead
Financial Analyst
|
| "I was initially fearful about exposing my writing to others, but the instructor made me feel safe and comfortable." |
-Linda Horton
Camera Technician
|
| "The instructor was informed, funny, down-to-earth, encouraging, and interesting." |
-Kathy Halvorson
Musician
|
| "The instructor was very effective and efficient in getting to the heart of the piece." |
-Mike Coughlan
Information Technologies
|
| "It definitely helps having an instructor who earns a living as a full-time writer." |
-Kelvin Sparks
Director of Information Technology
|
| "The instructor was exceptional in his lectures, musings, and personal critiques of the students' work. I gained a lot of insight on the craft of writing through his knowledge. He was somehow able to make what had previously been unclear to me crystal clear." |
-Kim E. Revay
Technician
USDA
|
| "The instructor very quickly answered any student questions. No one was left waiting for an answer. She was very straightforward and knew her business." |
-Nancy Wile
Student
|
| "This teacher was one of the best teachers I've had (and I've had a lot)." |
-Jan Pankey
Student
|
| "The instructor does a great job communicating with her students and makes a real effort to make herself available. I found her to be both interesting and informative as well as friendly in her approach to students." |
-Lyndon Taylor
Business Owner
|
| "The instructor provided information scattered over various books I have read over the last year in a clear and concise manner that I was able to understand. Being totally unfamiliar with how the publishing industry operates, I really appreciate how she put all the information together so that someone like me could grasp it." |
-Mona Benge
Retired Event Coordinator
|
| "I appreciated my instructor's insights and knowledge. She was gifted in expressing her gained wisdom through her lectures in a very methodical, logical, and inspiring manner." |
-Joyce Fuller
Nurse
|
| "Even though it was online, the teacher's personality came through; she was very caring and involved with her students." |
-Harriet Mckenzie
Homemaker
|
| "The instructor was very supportive and eloquent. She was very knowledgeable in her field." |
-Mark Chung
Student
|
| "The instructor fostered a genuine sense of community despite the Internet environment and distance between students and teacher." |
-Josette Belvedere
Attorney
|
| "Taking the course online was a lifesaver for me! I'm disabled and cannot get out to take classes. I found this course very effective." |
-Kira Moore
Student
|
| "Taking the online class ended up being much better than I expected. I was afraid I wouldn't have the one-on-one that a live class has. To my surprise it was set up so that it was very personalized. It was a great experience for me, and I would recommend it to everyone." |
-Jacque Folts
Manager of Marketing & Public Relations
|
| "Taking a course online is the best thing I have ever done along these lines. This course offered me great insight and positive answers to many questions I have wondered about." |
-Colleen Becker
Mother, Housewife
|
| "The structure of this class is fantastic. I think that it's very easy to navigate and it really keeps you working. Everything was timely and very interesting to me." |
-Karen Cevallos
Teacher
|
| "Online classes with Gotham are a wonderful experience…one I will certainly repeat, probably many times." |
-Stefanie Davies
Homemaker/Writer
|
| "I really loved this course! The instructor kept my interest in the class, and his constructive criticism made me want to write more and more. It’s great to have the opportunity to explore something that can be so fulfilling. For the first time in 23 years of academics, I did all my homework." |
-Stephanie Burke
Student
|
| "I’ve gained tremendously, both in knowledge and understanding of the craft. My confidence as a writer has soared, and I’ve already completed three drafts of a full-length screenplay. The results speak for themselves—I’ll be back." |
-Billy Squier
Singer and Songwriter
|
| "We got work done! This is exactly what should happen in a workshop. I thoroughly enjoyed it." |
-Patrick Harewood
Associate Producer
CNN
|
| "If I go on to be a successful published writer, and I will, it will be because of the Gotham classes I took." |
-Bhyl Hughes
Business Executive
|
| "I had never worked with the idea of children's literature and was nervous about what language to use, how detailed to be, et cetera. Both from the instructor and other students, I learned more about "less is more," and how to describe without adjectives." |
-Noreen Napolitano
Computer Software Support
|
| "The instructor made everyone feel welcome." |
-Susan Parker
Student
|
| "I learned what to expect from the publishing industry and how to write an effective query letter." |
-Dave Mele
Writer
|
| "We got lots of nuts and bolts about how to cope with things specific to mystery writing, as distinct from other fiction genres." |
-Annie Shaver-Crandell
Artist
|
| "My understanding of writing has grown tremendously, as has my desire to write meaningful and entertaining books for children." |
-Erica Farr
Mother & Homemaker
|
| "I learned that writing is a legitimate craft. Gotham encourages you to take your writing seriously." |
-Dan McSweeney
Programmer
|
| "I developed confidence as a writer. I forgot my hesitations and let my imagination and creativity run wild." |
-Suzanne Halbardier
Attorney
|
| "I learned that I can develop my ideas into an interesting story that has a voice and a point-of-view that people want to read." |
-Missy Cohen
Sound Editor
|
| "I learned the importance of planning during the writing process." |
-Julia Shaw
Publicist
|
Take a look at what past and present students of Gotham Writers' Workshop have to say: