Writing   

ChatGPT (AI) is here to stay and is the future for writers and content creators. Don’t be left behind! No prior AI experience required. Do you want to learn how to incorporate the power of cutting-edge technology to gain ideas and inspiration, write web content, articles, and even novels or scripts? In this beginner-friendly course, you’ll learn how to:

• register for a free ChatGPT account
• input effective writing prompts to avoid nonsense responses
• build creative content, from stories to marketing copy
• determine its capabilities and limitations
• understand ethical/legal considerations using ChatGPT

There’s no doubt ChatGPT and similar AI systems will force the job market to evolve. It’s crucial for everyone to adapt, learn new skills, and be open to working in collaboration with AI, so start building your expertise in the world of ChatGPT now! The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor will send a zoom link before class.

Age range: 16+

If your goal is to become a published freelance writer by selling a magazine article, short story, poem, or even a novel to a traditional publisher, this comprehensive workshop will guide you to, then past the editor's desk. You will discover how to:

• become a “published” writer overnight
• submit manuscripts the correct way
• find the right publisher for your work
• write irresistible query letters
• determine when and how to get an agent
• 100 ways to make money as a freelance writer

If you really want to succeed, this step-by-step workshop is a must! Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. 

Age range: 16+

Harness the power of social media to grow your audience and boost your brand—one post at a time. This dynamic class dives deep into crafting scroll-stopping content tailored for each platform, from Instagram reels to Twitter (X) threads. Learn how to write engaging captions, spark viral shares, and use storytelling to build authentic connections that keep followers coming back. You’ll also discover savvy strategies to turn likes and comments into real income by monetizing your social presence like a pro. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee.

Age range: 18+

Whether you are asking for organizational contributions, selling school fundraising items, putting on an event, or other requests, is asking for and bringing in funds to support your organization or program a challenge? You are not alone. You don’t have to apologize when asking for support and contributions for your organization. In this course you will learn techniques to bring in funds and resources for your project or organization. This workshop is valuable for staff, boards, volunteers, and anyone who is involved with raising funds for your nonprofit organization.

PowerPoint provided following each class at no additional fee. 

Age range: 18+

 

Self-publishing is all the rage, but is it the best option for you? And, can you do both? You will discover the pros and cons of all the self-publishing options, including print-on-demand and e-book publishing, as well as Amazon options, and see how they compare to traditional publishing. Informative handouts, including a rated description of 50 self-publishing companies for future use are included in class fee.

Prerequisite: participants must also attend “Beginner’s Guide to Getting Published," which is offered right before this class. 

Age range: 16+

 

If you love to travel and love to write, this is for you! We will discuss how to use all your senses in a new destination to create more detailed and in-depth descriptions that capture and maintain readers’ interest, and whether or not you need to include photos with your work. You will also learn how to find and submit your finished product to print and online markets, the business side of travel writing (how to take travel tax deductions), and how to avoid worn-out travel writing cliches. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. 

Age range: 18+

Your GPA and test scores say a lot about you, but your college application essay is where you get to show up as yourself. In this four-week workshop, an LPC English professor helps you decode the UC PIQs and Common App essay. You’ll learn how to write strong, voice-driven essays that sound like you—not ChatGPT. You’ll walk away with a polished essay that’s ready to submit. We’ll also cover application tracking spreadsheets, brag sheets, supplemental essays, scholarship statements, and more. This class is open to both high school students and community college students looking to transfer soon.Laptops provided but students may bring their own.

Age range: 16+

You don’t need to be famous to have a legacy to leave behind. Create an inspirational autobiography for family, friends, and others. Learn how to recall vivid memories, analyze events and people that shaped who you are, and bring your story to life. Your handout, included in the class fee, will have an outline to help you organize and write your memoir step-by-step. Printing/publishing options will also be discussed. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. This course is LIVE REMOTE during the date and time listed. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.  

Age range: 16+

 

Ready to turn your real-life stories into unforgettable nonfiction? Whether you’re crafting a memoir, how-to guide, personal essay, or narrative article, this class is your launchpad to powerful, authentic writing. Discover how to pick compelling topics, unleash your unique voice, and organize your ideas with clarity and punch. Explore every nonfiction format—from blogs to books—and master techniques for crafting openings that hook, weaving in research seamlessly, and polishing your work for maximum impact. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. This course is LIVE REMOTE during the date and time listed. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class.

Age range: 16+

Step into the magical world of children’s and YA literature—and learn how to captivate young readers like a pro! This dynamic class dives deep into the hottest market trends, age-smart storytelling techniques, and unforgettable character creation that speaks directly to kids and teens. You’ll also get insider tips on crafting submissions that grab the attention of kid-lit magazines and publishers. Whether you’re dreaming of picture books or YA novels, this is your launchpad to creating stories that kids won’t put down.  Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. This course is LIVE REMOTE during the date and time listed. The webinar login information will be emailed the day before class. 

Age range: 16+

You don’t need a journalism degree or previously published articles to write for anyone’s online blog, magazine, or website. Some opportunities offer exposure, while many pay well -- $1 a word and more. In this fast-paced session, you will learn how to: find ideas, sources, and more than 1,000 opportunities that pay, conduct interviews and create interesting content, protect your copyright, write query letters, and then use this credibility to sell other articles or even your self published novel. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. 

Age range: 16+