Class

Controlling Your Narrative In the Media: Publishing the Personal Essay

In this three-hour virtual class, writers will learn how to craft compelling personal essays that are not only authentic, but also publication-ready. Led by publicist and essayist Shanetta McDonald (Allure, Essence, HuffPost, Well+Good), the class will help emerging and aspiring authors shape narratives that center their lived experiences.

We’ll explore what editors are looking for, how to pitch, and how to refine your voice and perspective for publication.

During class, we'll dig into viral personal essay examples that are compelling and have garnered considerable press. The first half of class will focus on instruction, discussion, and guided writing prompts. In the second half, we’ll review short excerpts that were crafted in class, with verbal feedback from both the teaching artist and peers.

Students should come prepared with an idea for a personal essay or a draft-in-progress. This class is ideal for writers who want to publish in media outlets and control how their stories are told on their own terms.

All classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.
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