The Working Writer Course

As a faculty member at George Washington University, I created a groundbreaking course for undergraduates planning to go into the literary world. The goal of “The Working Writer” is to show students just how many ways there are to be a professional writer. I demystify the industry, acquaint students with its gatekeepers, and get painfully honest about money. By the end, they’ve learned the tools they need to carve out a career that’s right for them. Rather than just drive the course with lecturers, I bring in agents and editors and authors, but also freelancers, ghostwriters, screenwriters, Emmy-winning actors, and even a former Presidential speechwriter.

I have a one-day version of this course that I can teach to MFA or BFA programs. It was launched at George Mason University, where I was a visiting writer in 2025.