|
Your Courses Email Alerts Other Questions? Your Online Course |
|
Intro to Food Writing (New York and Online)Candace was so inspired by her class with David Leite, she got an article published and started her own food blog."Just one week after the end of my eClass, Intro to Food Writing with David Leite, I was published in L.A. Alternative. The valuable feedback I received from David and my classmates helped me shape the article's topic, a Japanese pastry superhero, into a saleable feature article. A somewhat quirky piece to place, David's guidance helped me "think outside of the ice box" and research non-food, alternative markets for my writing. Inspired by David to think more creatively about the business of food writing, I have even started my own blog, From the Pit of My Stomach. David's impressive credentials, combined with his saavy business and marketing sense, make for a powerful cocktail in the world of food writing. Plus, he's got a great sense of humor. For anyone serious about breaking into food writing, a class with David is a must." -- Candace Ryan, former student
Intro to Writing for NYC Newspapers and Magazines (New York)Katie sold her piece to the NY Press, just one week into her class with Sue Shapiro.
The Secrets Behind Writing and Selling Your First Book (New York)Kimberlee sold her first book with the help and critique of Sue Shapiro.
Six months later, I'm thrilled to say I sold my first book! I'll be working with editor Julie Doughty at Dutton on my memoir The Devil, The Lovers, and Me: My Life in Tarot, and I am over-the-moon happy about it." -- Kimberlee Auerbach, former student and author How to Write a Nonfiction Book Proposal that Sells (New York)This class inspired Joyce to complete her book proposal -- and within months she signed on with a literary agency.
Travel Writing with James Sturz (New York)Since completing James' class, Cator has written travel pieces for 6 different publications.
Writing for NYC Newspapers and Magazines (New York)After 5 years as a copywriter, Rachel took Sue's 5 week class and got her first op-ed piece published.
Sue is a phenomenal instructor who will inspire you, entertain you and most
importantly, help you get published. She offers up valuable and practical insights
and is 100% accessible to her students both during and outside of class. I would
take another one of Sue's courses in a How to Write a Nonfiction Book Proposal that Sells (New York)Kate took a chance on a one-night seminar, and got the push she needed to get her book sold.
I went home feeling pumped, and spent hours polishing up my proposal. I wrote a pitch letter and sent it to agents who represented similar books. In the morning when I checked my email, all of the agents had responded. I got to pick my favorite and, two months later, my proposal went out to editors. I now have a book deal with Touchstone Fireside, and the perfect editor who completely gets my vision. So look for Making the Castle: A Year in the Extreme World of College Cheerleading in April 2008." -- Kate Torgovnick, former student and author Op-Ed Master Class (New York)Pete thought getting his pieces published would be impossible -- until he completed Op-Ed and now has 3 published pieces!
Since class, I'm happy to report that I have a playful commentary piece on network news published in Television Week. Also, I've had two OpEds published in the NY Blade. The most recent is titled "Are Role Models Really Necessary" and I also published a piece with a contrarian take on the characters in BrokeBack Mountain. Thanks to Katie!" -- Pete Dorogoff, media consultant, iProCommunications.com How to Write for (and Pitch to) Women's TV Networks(Washington, DC/New York)Jamila thought she liked mediabistro's classes...until she attended Laurie Scheer's seminar and realized she LOVED them.
Excellent on every level, and I can't say enough how much I got out of attending. Honestly, this is why I've gone to mediabistro events since 1999. You're better than anyone else out here! Thanks much." -- Jamila Bey, former student 4-Week TV News Reporter (New York)Alexandra not only walked away from her class with an on-camera piece, but also gained a great contact.
I was so impressed by how Manoush really took the time to look at everybody's work and provide individual feedback for everyone in the classroom on ways they can improve. Manoush is the type of teacher who you could contact 3 years from now for career advice and she would remember you. I definitely recommend taking one of her classes, if not all of them." --Alexandra Perakis, merchandising coordinator, Glamour magazine Writing Comedy for TV (New York)Alexander, an alumni of many mediabistro classes, was blown away by his class with Alan Cross."A few words about Alan Cross and his class. Of all the classes ive taken at mediabistro (and I've taken lots), Alan's is the best. Beyond his talent and insight he showed great individual interest in our work well beyond the limits of the classroom. More than simply offer constructive general advice on revising our writing, he showed unusually keen insight and precision in editing and shaping our work. He also brought outstanding guests -- amazing guests from places like Comedy Central -- who went well beyond the usual generalities and instead delivered specific ideas on what to do, how to do it, and in many cases who to contact. A rarity, even among the best classes. In short, more than a writing class, Alan showed us where and how to turn jokes into jobs. Everyone who wants to write comedy should take his class." --Alexander Kippen, former student Perfect Pitch (New York and Boston)Holly pitched her client to Daily Candy, developed a press release that got noticed, and created her own design blog.
In addition to the ink for my client via Daily Candy, Wendy helped me pull together a great press release that resulted in my client being noticed by Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in LA, Mix 98.5, Home Companion magazine, and New Hampshire magazine (they are devoting an entire page to her in their April issue!). An additional thank you to Wendy for saying "In today's culture, if you don't have a website, you don't exist." I needed to hear her words of tough love, for I was sitting there, cold and alone in the world without a website! I quickly made a note to self to be someone and resolved to get a web presence pronto! With that, I launched a design blog that I contribute to daily, www.decor8.blogpsot.com, and in just one month, I have over 3,000 readers. Apartment Therapy even found out about my blog and wrote a blurb about me on their website, and I'm already picking up work from my blog space. Thanks for folks like Wendy who tell it like it is." --Holly Becker, blog designer and contributor, GKFA.com Master the Pitch Letter (New York)Pete perfected his pitch...and got a great assignment with Chicago Homes
After his class, I was assigned a 750-word piece from Chicago Homes about modernist prefabricated modular housing – think Frank Lloyd Wright with Legos. Basically, I did exactly what James said – not only with the actually pitch-writing, but also with my research, calling potential sources, my initial phone contacts with the magazine, etc . . . James’ class taught be everything I needed to know to get this far. I’m quite pleased." --Pete Rognli, Master the Pitch alum Travel Writing Seminar (Boston)Josh's article on Ireland ran on the front page of the Boston Globe's travel section. They even bought three of his pictures!
I have to give Wendy extra credit for going above and beyond, as well, by making herself available to me a few months after the class ended when I had a question about an article I’d pitched. Wendy gave me some great advice and, a few weeks later, I sold my article! It was great having someone like Wendy, who’s just about seen and done it all in this business, to offer perspective during the ‘waiting game’ of pitching a story and hoping for the best. In my case, it worked out perfectly. The Boston Globe did finally buy and publish my Ireland article. It ran on the front page of the Sunday travel section in October of 2005, and they bought three pictures too. Such a thrill!" --Josh Roberts, managing editor SmarterTravel.com and columnist, The American Adventurer Op-Ed Master Class (NYC)One week after her mb class ended, Bess published her Op-ed in the Washington Post and it was the most emailed article of the day.
I mentioned to Katie that I had an idea for a piece about a consulting company which was selling students a competitive edge. She strongly encouraged me to write about it and a week later I submitted my piece to the Op-ed page of the New York Times. When I didn't hear back from the Times, I emailed it to the Boston Globe. But once again, I received no response. In a last ditch effort I submitted my piece to the Outlook section of the Washington Post. "Writing Wrongs" was published on the front page of the Outlook section on Sunday, January 15th. Along with the tremendous feedback I received, the opportunity has opened many doors for me as a freelance writer. I am thankful that Katie's guidance and support facilitated my early success in what I hope will be a life-long career in journalism. " -- Bess Kargman, freelance writer, multi-media producer, and Op-Ed Master Class alum Humor Writing Boot Camp (NYC)Joel went from having limited writing experience to being published in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Village Voice."Before I signed up for Lynn Harris's class, I had barely been published; I was working in IT and was just starting up my writing career with a few local Op-ed articles and some other random stuff. However, by the time the class started (I accidentally signed up six months in advance), I had a couple of different humorous essays either published or under consideration by good publications. I thought I was set, and I didn't need the class anymore. But Lynn, along with my funny and talented classmates, were really able to help me punch up the humor in all my pieces, teaching me things like ending a paragraph on a joke and strengthening the impact of a funny line by taking out unnecessary words. Lynn also used her extensive freelance expertise to give us a good idea about which markets consistently look for humor. My essay was printed in the Washington Post's Style section and was my favorite one from the class, and it was the one I read during the class' "graduation performance" at CB's Gallery in March 2004. Since the class, I've increased my writing credits to include a semi-regular spot in the New Jersey section of The New York Times, and the now shuttered web site The Black Table, as well as having pieces in The Village Voice and mediabistro (look it up... I wrote about TV Guide). I am also using the class' lessons at my "regular gig" as a writer for the blog TV Squad (www.tvsquad.com)." -- Joel Keller, freelancer and Humor Writing Boot Camp alum Master Class: Writing for NYC Newspapers and Magazines (NYC)Our master class helped Liza to take her piece from a good idea to a salable essay.
The New York Times piece was truly serendipitous as the editor I sent it to came to speak about the City section in Sue's class, so all the elements came together on this one. I also took her "Sell Your First Book" seminar. The agent and editor were phenomenal - and both asked to see my novel! Thanks for having such an amazing instructor, not to mention one who is so generous and open in sharing her gazillion editor contacts with us!" -- Liza Monroy, Master Class with Sue Shapiro alum 12-Week Screenwriter (NYC)Even with a broken elbow, James finished our screenwriting class with 60 new pages in hand.
And hey, I ended up dislocating an elbow, and I got more done in 12-Week Screenwriter than in other classes with both arms in tact. With my left arm out of commission, D.B. proved to be a true "right-hand" man." -- James Babbin, Austin Film Festival Quarterfinalist and 12-Week Screenwriter alum Boot Camp for Magazine Editors(NYC)In just 4 weeks, Stephen went from dreaming of magazine writing to getting commissioned by major magazines."For years I've been on the outside looking in as far as magazines are concerned, desperate for the chance to write and edit; Chris Scapelliti's tuition gave me the confidence to do something about it in the space of four weeks. To tap into Chris's expertise was a privilege, and his methods and sense of judgement will undoubtedly shape my own approach from this point on. Already I have more writing commissions from Australian GQ and Marie Claire...and hopefully an editor's job will follow before hell freezes over." --Stephen Wood, deputy chief subeditor (Sport) of the Sydney Morning Herald and Boot Camp for Magazine Editors alum eClass: 12-Week NovelistLaura finished her first fiction manuscript in Nicole's eClass--it worked so well, she took it again!
During the 12 weeks, I cranked out a draft of a YA novel. I then spent the spring revising the manuscript. Having proven to myself I can write a novel when I make time to do it, I signed up for another 12-Week Novelist eClass in 2005. As the last book never writes the next one, this may become a yearly tradition, or at least a welcome change of pace from the non-fiction articles I normally write." -- Laura Vanderkam, Reader's Digest contributing editor How to Become a Celebrity Interviewer (NYC)Katrina lined up exciting interviews with celebrity singers and actors after taking a class with Precious Williams"I signed up for How to Become a Celebrity Interviewer to meet Precious Williams. I have long read and loved her articles in the likes of UK Elle, so I guess it was no surprise how much I enjoyed her class. I took away some really nifty and useful tips. But most importantly, I was incredibly inspired. At
the end of the day, it’s up to you to get out there and make the contacts
and get the commissions and do good work - but it’s really important to
have someone saying not just how to do it, but that you can do it.
Precious wasn’t afraid to let us know some of the mistakes she’d
made and learned from in the past, which made the class all the more encouraging.
I'm starting to get signed up as a stringer with many companies back in Australia
and I have some very exciting interviews with singers and actors already lined
up! Meeting Precious definitely gave me both the inspiration and the confidence
to try out this new world of celebrity interviews." -- Katrina Lawrence,
beauty & lifestyle writer and How
to Become a Celebrity Interviewer alum The 12-Week TV-Writer (L.A.)Peter has won several contests since completing our TV-writing class
Aury presented an amazing amount of information in the three hours, and took the time to make sure all attendees' questions were answered. Since taking the class, I polished up the scripts and entered some of the competitions Aury directed us to. I've had some good news on the contest front: My Simpsons script "Homie Makes The World Go 'Round," took best sitcom spec honors in three national contests. Thanks to those wins and several finalist spots in other competitions, the script now ranks on MovieBytes.com's "WinningScripts" database as the most award-winning TV spec of any kind - ever! And my other specs have been doing well too; I was the only writer to have two specs get a mention in the prestigious Scriptapalooza TV results announced earlier this year! -- Peter Phelan Check out Aury Wallington's upcoming classes in LA eClass: Master the Pitch LetterAfter James' class, Juliette found the process of sending pitch letters much less daunting.
eClass: Basic Training: An Introduction to Food WritingLeora got so much out of David's eClass, she's taking it twice!"I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to learn from such a well-respected, well-published food writer. David has the uncanny ability to edit, give incredibly detailed, thoughtful, constructive criticism, and still encourage his students. His critiques were always insightful and made perfect sense, and we could tell that he put a lot of time and effort into them. Our eClass time was surprisingly animated (I was doubtful about the whole "chat" idea) and instructive. David did a great job including everyone in discussion and covering all the topics in our lectures as well as any random questions that came up along the way. I recommend this class so highly, I'm taking it again!" -- Leora Bloom, eClass: Basic Training: An Introduction to Food Writing alum Me, Myself, and Foie Gras: Writing the Perfect Food Essay (NYC)David's seminar inspired Nolan to write his own perfect food essay
He is a very dedicated and talented writer who obviously
takes pleasure in nurturing the talents and aspirations of other writers in
a very competitive industry. I look forward to taking future classes with
David and seeing him read a future essay of my own, which he has helped to inspire."
-- Nolan Studley, Me,
Myself, and Foie Gras alum Master Class with Sue Shapiro: Writing for NYC Newspapers and Magazines (NYC)By the fourth week of Sue's class, Emily sold her piece about perfume sample girls to the New York Observer
I'm so happy that I took this class. Every new writer
should be so lucky!." -- Emily Bond, Master
Class with Sue Shapiro alum Master Class with Sue Shapiro: Writing for NYC Newspapers and Magazines (NYC)Elizabeth published an Op-Ed assignment from Sue's class twice in four weeks (once as a cover story)!
I can't say enough positive things about Sue. She is a great teacher and a gifted writer. Her passion for writing and publishing is infectious, and her energy will blow you away. Sue
really breaks it all down. She'll advise you where to send or pitch your work.
Her generosity of spirit is truly amazing. I'm grateful to know her, and I
can't wait to take another class from her." -- Elizabeth M. Economou,
Master
Class with Sue Shapiro alum Introduction to Magazine Writing (S.F.)Mike scored a feature article contract for Wired within weeks of finishing class
Check out Sally
Lehrman's upcoming classes in San Francisco. Boot Camp for Journalists (NYC)Jeff published an article about men's striped "clubbing" shirts in the Daily News!
Steve changed this. Each week he assigned a different type of article: profiles, art critiques, travel essays, you name it, which rocked me out of my comfort zone. Suddenly it was Saturday night, I had my notebook in-hand, and I began interviewing people in bars for an "around the town" type story about men's clubbing-shirts. Now, I don't know the first thing about men's fashion. And before Steve's class, I never would have dreamed of writing, much less pitching, a hands-on, investigative-journalism piece about clubbing shirts. But in his class I did. And with the class's encouragement, I sold it to the Daily News, paying for the course in one shot. I now have a much better sense of how to pitch, where to pitch, and,
best of all, the different types of stories that I can write. Oh, and just as
important--if not more so--I left the class with a great group of new friends.
Money well spent!" The 12-Week Novelist (NYC)Brand new to fiction, Mackenzie found an agent willing to work with her on developing her first novel after taking this class!
After the class ended, a few of us decided to keep meeting up. When I'd written 100 pages, I used mb's Pitching an Agent feature (which is fabulous!) and emailed it, on a lark, to one person. I expected nothing, but wanted to test the waters a bit. She responded! Nothing is official, but I'm now working with her to finish the book - which I would not have had the discipline to start, without the class." — Mackenzie Dawson Parks, 12-Week Novelist alum eClass: Basic Training: An Introduction to MagazinesChristine found a community in her online class, as well as talent she had previously only suspected she had!
I sold the first article I wrote in this class to Woman's Day. The pace of the lessons and assignments was easy to manage with my work schedule. But what I found most valuable were the inside tips Celeste Mitchell offered on the components of a successful pitch. (I still refer to my notes!) Her seasoned expertise and thoughtful guidance gave me the confidence I needed to make my first pitch. In addition to the flexible schedule MB's eClass allows, another unique aspect of this online course was the fact that although I live in L.A., people on the East Coast and even as far as Japan were in my class offering feedback. This encouraged me to expand the scope of my writing and consider what would be palatable to readers outside of L.A. MB's eClasses offer the
perfect forum to take the plunge and build on your talent, skills and experience
without quitting your day job." —Christine Rand The 12-Week TV-Writer (L.A. & eClass)James is placing in screenwriting competitions all over the country!
This is the only class I have ever taken where everyone achieved what they set out to do. Everyone finished their script. The other students were so top-notch, while intimidating at first, it really helped me write with ease and get results. The group continues to be very supportive of one another. Since taking the class, I placed in the top 10% as a “second rounder” at the Austin Film Festival. Aury knows that you know you can do it, and helps you get it done!"—James Babbin, screeenwriter and actor The 12-Week Novelist (L.A.)Pete took the novel-writing class in August 2004, and by December, it was already being talked about on Page Six
"Taking mediabistro.com's 12-Week Novelist with the amazing, inspiring Rachel Resnick kicked my butt into action. Without the weekly deadlines and the support and wisdom of my fellow boot campers and Rachel, I would never have completed my manuscript, "Dirt," which is a very fictionalized account of working as a reporter for The Star. Now, "Dirt" has been written about on The New York Post's "Page Six" and on LA.com and I have a meeting with a power agent in New York! The class is hardcore (expect to write a lot), but if you are serious about cranking out a first draft of your novel, this workshop is the place to do it!" —Pete Davis, author of the forthcoming novel, Dirt
The 12-Week Young Adult Novelist (eClass & NYC)Micol sold her book while—yes, while—she was still in class
"Kristen's comments were thoughtful and relevant, and her class was a pleasure. As a part-time YA novelist, I needed to focus my energy on my own original fiction, and thanks to Kristen, I've sold my latest idea to a leading children's book publisher! I'd highly recommend her course."—Micol Ostow, author of the forthcoming novel, 30 Guys in 30 Days (Simon Pulse, May 2005) The
next 12-Week
Young Adult Novelist courses begins in January in New York City and as an
eClass online.
Boot Camp for Journalists (eClass)Sara is back at the top of her journalism game and selling things she's writing in class!
The next eClass: Boot Camp for Journalists with Allen Salkin begins online Thursday, Dec. 2. Apply now. Travel Writing Boot Camp for Journalists (L.A.)While in class, Litty published assignments in Travel + Leisure, Men's Journal, and Glamour
Although I thought I was a good writer, I always fell short of getting assigned the story. David's Travel Writing Boot Camp taught me more in two months about good writing and selling good writing than two years of graduate journalism school. David accomplishes this with gentle humor and generous advice. Within the first two weeks of class, I'd broken into Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel; a month later, into Travel + Leisure, Men's Journal, and Glamour. Now, I'm working on placing a story in Saveur. If I hadn't taken his class, none of it would have happened. An added benefit, I can apply what I've learned to categories other than travel with precise results. —Litty Mathew The next Travel Writing Boot Camp with David Hochman begins soon The 1-Day Workshop: Personal Essay Clinic (NYC)Holly's instructor, an assigning editor at Self, bought the essay she workshopped in class!
One day my daily MB News Feed advertised a 4-hour workshop on the personal essay with Paula Derrow, the articles director of Self. I write essays, and I thought the workshop would be an opportunity to get (possibly painful, but instructuve) feedback straight from the source. The class had six or seven people, all talented. The essays were diverse in style and subject matter, but all were very well-written. Paula would read each essay and then spend about 25 minutes going over it with the writer in detail, noting with generosity what was good and discussing with sensitivity what needed work. Then she would suggest outlets to pitch it to. She's an amazing editor, and her feedback on our writing was incisive and helpful. She encouraged us in our writing, and her pitch suggestions were creative and helpful. When she got to my essay, she gave me some excellent feedback and then suggested that I pitch it to Self! I was bowled over. I remember I just kept saying, "Thank you. Thank you!" I submitted the revised piece to her a week later, and Self bought it two nights ago. This outcome was beyond my wildest expectations for that evening and now I realize I am living proof that MB makes things happen for writers, including those who don't have a bulging portfolio of clips from national magazines. I am so grateful to MB for helping me make this connection, and I feel like I have stepped into an alternate reality, one where Paula Derrow asks me, "So what else would you like to write for Self?"-- Holly Teichholtz The next 1-Day Workshop: Personal Essay Clinic with Paula Derrow meets Monday, November 15. Apply now. Los Angeles ClassesLaura is out of the closet about being a five-time mb course-taking champion
tremendous experiences with Allen Salkin's pitch-perfect workshop, Robert Masello's book proposal-writing workshop, and David Hochman's Travel Writing and Personal Essay courses. Travel Writing helped me land articles in the Times, The Robb Report and Saveur. From Personal Essay Boot Camp with David Hochman, I got another article in the Times. From the relationship I developed with David and other people in those courses, I made connections with editors at Details, Marie Claire and Travel + Leisure. David's and my classmates' commentary, ideas and willingness to help me—even months after I'd finished the courses—makes me feel like I ordered a five-course meal and then got 10 courses because of the owner's good nature. — Laura Shin Our next round of Los Angeles classes begins soon in West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Hollywood, and elsewhere. Editorial Design Boot Camp (NYC)Mag founder and art director Jeff gained confidence in his work...and strength in his portfolio
Before taking Editorial Design Boot Camp with Nick Torello, I was an advertising art director for 16 years and a magazine publisher and designer of a small national magazine called ATOMIC for the past four-and-a-half years. I had won some magazine design awards in the past but was doing the magazine design based on gut instinct not any known rules or real-life experience (I'd never worked for a magazine ever). Because ATOMIC is my magazine, I knew I was designing in a vacuum and was in search of some professional advice to help hone my craft. When I found out about the design class, I realized this was exactly what I needed to take me to the next level. And after the first week, I was even more elated about the format, which is very casual. Nick is quite talented, but cool and laid back. We all post our work on the wall and everybody speaks up to discuss one another's work. We've all learned, I think, that you need open discussion and trust in each other to push your design even further regardless of the various levels we're all at. Everybody in the class was supportive of each other and making constructive suggestions to help. The one thing the class really drove home is the basic formatting of a magazine. Not restrictive rules, just basics that will help me on any assignment down the road. Because of Nick's obvious passion for type and design and fundamentals, I've found some objectivity toward my design, found reasons to place elements in specific places instead of just placing them somewhere because it's fine for now or the MAC placed it there, and how to pull back on my design. "Can I put another dingbat in the corner, please, Nick????" "Bad Jeff! Pull back!" Since the class, my portfolio has become much stronger and I've found a renewed confidence in my design. After all, it¹s all about gaining self-confidence, isn't it?. — Jeff Griffith The next Editorial Design Boot Camp with Nick Torello begins soon. Food Writing Boot Camp (NYC)Michael found this intensive class a delicious introduction to the realities of food writing, with a healthy menu of skill-builders
The next Food-Writing Boot Camp with Kate Krader begins soon. Personal Essay Boot Camp (NYC)Nita thought the personal essay form was self-indulgent until she found a great teacher and a roomful of friends to convince her otherwise
The next Personal Essay Boot Camp with Paula Derrow begins October 6 in New York City. Stiletto Boot Camp: Writing for Women's Magazines (NYC)Bryn went from PR to WWD after Stiletto Boot Camp helped her get her foot in the door
The next Stiletto Boot Camp with Celeste Mitchell begins soon. Boot Camp for Journalists (Washington, D.C.)Kathryn went from standing on the sidelines to writing for the Washington Post!
Kate Marsh was a gentle guide back to the world I'd missed. The weekly assignments helped put my mind in the right frame to conjure ideas at will and report them. Sharing my work with other professionals in the class helped restore my confidence in my abilities and gave me the feedback I needed to hone my words into something meaningful and salable.
I'm currently looking forward to having my first op-ed published in The Washington Post newspaper! I've been published in Cat Fancy, Baltimore Magazine, Chesapeake Bay Magazine, and Baltimore City Paper. The class was everything I'd hoped it would be and more. Thanks to excellent instruction and encouragement, I'm working on a nonfiction book about my life experiences and feel confident I will succeed. Boot camp was all I needed to put my writing life back together.—Kathryn Hudson The next Boot Camp for Journalists with Kate Marsh begins soon in D.C. From Headlines to Punchlines: Humor Writing for Journalists (NYC)Rachel went from closet writer to published humor novelist with the help of a great class greater classmates
The next From Headlines to Punchlines: Humor Writing for Journalists with Lynn Harris begins soon in New York City. The 12-Week TV-WriterLeslie's experience at mediabistro.com taught her that teachers don't have to be egomaniacal to be effective
Aury
opens the door and guides us through the big world of TV script writing. It's
the "Why not just do this" approach as opposed to the "Be grateful
you're even taking a class with me" approach. She gave me ideas and new ways
to solve my script writing problems. (She's also very fun to work with.) As the next group drags themselves off the streets of New York and into
her class, they too will shake off the struggles of city life and realize, "Hey,
I'm gonna make a story for TV!" The next 12-Week TV-Writer with Aury Wallington begins September 11 in Los Angeles. Personal Essay Boot Camp (L.A.)Rochelle let David Hochman coax out the personal essays within...and onto the pages of the Washington Post
So, last October, I enrolled in David Hochman's Personal Essay Boot Camp a nd immediately discovered that David Hochman is not who he seems. As we read our essays aloud each Wednesday night, he'd sit there all Buddha-like, hands folded, save for the occasional scratching of pen on paper. "I'm the next Calvin Trillin!" I'd think smugly. Except I wasn't. Because David's comments touched on every problem I thought I'd successfully hidden beneath delightful descriptions and droll dialogue. Using his inside voice, David calmly imparted the lessons of the Personal Essay: Specificity. Originality. And-most difficult of all-emotional depth. As one who agonizes over every word, a weekly deadline was most welcome. And David was adept at advising each of us according to our own idiosyncratic writing styles. Which made for a class that was challenging, enlightening, and, dare I say, exhilarating. I'm still at AFI, but I'm excited about my own writing again. I just sold a personal essay to the Washington Post and I've made contacts at the Los Angeles Times Magazine and Salon. Never underestimate the power of the HochMan.—Rochelle Levy Personal Essay Boot Camp with David Hochman begins soon in Santa Monica. The 12-Week Screenwriter (NYC)Melissa finished her script in 12 weeks...and landed it as a prestigious contest's finalist weeks later!
The next 12-Week Screenwriter with D.B. Gilles begins online Tuesday, Sept. 21. Apply now.
Boot Camp for Journalists (L.A.)Katherine pitched and sold to the L.A. Times Weekend Calendar section before class was even through!
It wasn’t until Lew’s class and his frank feedback that I realized that I’d been giving away too much of the story in my pitches. I.e.,"You should be able to say it in about three paragraphs." Lew is a very friendly and down-to-earth teacher. He’s supportive and insightful. His no nonsense approach to my ideas and my work helped me refine my writing process. He helped me become a more efficient and succinct writer. During class I pitched and sold a feature story to the L.A. Times Weekend Calendar section in less time than it usually took me to just draft a pitch letter. As a result, I’m
more confident about writing pitches which also helped me establish a connection
with a national newspaper. Since Lew’s class I’ve sold The
next Boot
Camp for Journalists with Lew Harris begins soon. Food Writing Boot Camp (NYC)Dinki learned that her love for food and her unique voice can be nurtured and appreciated in an intimate, intensive class.
The next Food Writing Boot Camp with Kate Krader begins soon. Basic Training: Magazines (L.A.)Stephanie feels ready to turn her love for magazines into a career writing for magazines.
Oliver is a great teacher. He made everyone feel very comfortable. His intelligence and humor made the class not only challenging but enjoyable. During the workshop period of the class, the other students gave insightful critiques. I am
still at my current job working as an assistant in the entertainment field but
I now feel like I have the confidence and knowledge to pursue my dream of writing
for magazines. Based on my experience, I would definitely take another mediabistro
course. —Stephanie Schramm, executive assistant, Paramount The next Basic Training: Introduction to Magazine-Writing begins again soon in West Hollywood. Personal Essay Boot Camp (L.A.)Full-time freelancer Kate never would have completed her essay for publication in Newsweek if not for Boot Camp.
Personal Essay Boot Camp with David Hochman begins again soon in Santa Monica. Boot Camp for Journalists (Chicago)Maureen went from bored corporate communicator to fascinated freelanced in 8 weeks
Ever the procrastinating writer, I needed something to help me get my butt in gear. And did Boot Camp ever do it! Our class was filled with smart, well-rounded and fascinating women (and aman!) who were serious about getting published. The writing feedback we gave and got from each other was invaluable - and so was the support, whether we were discussing pitch letters, editor contacts, or story leads. And fostering that congenial atmosphere was instructor Lucinda Hahn. My ultimate goal is to ditch corporate America and pursue a freelance writing career in Italy, so when I read Lucinda's instructor bio—and discovered that she'd spent five years working as a European-based freelancer—I knew I'd likely found a kindred spirit. I couldn't have been more right. Her understanding of the freelance marketplace, combined with the years she spent editing and writing for Chicago magazine, made her the perfect advisor. Even though our class ended last fall, Lucinda's still out there rooting us students on, encouraging us to pitch and place stories. Not
only were the Boot Camp assignments good practice, a couple of mine turned into
cold cash. My first piece, a personal essay where I waxed poetic about my obsession
with "The Golden Girls," was published by the Chicago Tribune.
I was able to turn my exhibition assignment into a 50-word front-of-the-book item
for Chicago magazine. And since Boot Camp ended, I've had three features
published by the Chicago Sun-Times (where I worked years ago), and have
secured two assignments for Black Enterprise, a business magazine with 468,000
monthly readers. Thanks to the confidence I gleaned from Boot Camp, I'm ready
to pitch my dream publications: The New York Times' Travel section and
Travel + Leisure. I'm shooting for the stars and intend to reach them!
— Maureen Jenkins The 12-Week Novelist (L.A.)Larry got a dose of reality (plus, he finished his novel!) in an intense but friendly atmosphere
Rachel Resnick brought sharp focus to everyone's work and the process. The classes were intense. I quickly learned that my initial idea for a comic novel was not working, and proceeded to radically re-tool it as noir all the way to the finish. I completed my first draft with minutes to spare. My life has changed in several ways. My non-fiction pieces got a whole lot better. I have a more realistic set of illusions and expectations on the next step of the general writing process. I also made some cool friends from the class experience.— Larry Gassan The next 12-Week Novelist with Rachel Resnick begins soon in Santa Monica. Travel-Writing Boot Camp (NYC)Jean went from self-funded trips to film festivals to commissioned trips hang gliding in Rio
The next Travel Writing Boot Camp with James Sturz begins soon. Travel-Writing Boot Camp (NYC)Ethan thought travel writing might be a great hobby—The New York Times thought differently
When I came to the first class, I was expecting academic exercises in travel writing, not focused assignments with a view towards publishing the work written for class. It quickly became apparent that good writing was only half the criteria for an assignment well done; the other half was how good your pitch letter was and how well you had targeted your work to the publication. James was fantastic. He pulled no punches and held no hands. He let me know when I had something and when I didn't. He was perfectly willing to let me or anyone else know if something I had written wasn't good enough (or not targeted enough) for the publication I was looking to pitch. What James taught us—and what I think most travel—writing hopefuls don't realize-is that if you're a talented writer, breaking into travel writing is about effort. James and the class helped me workshop a pitch for The New York Times-the first I ever sent out-and they accepted it. I workshopped the story as well, and the Times ended up accepting and publishing the article. It was only 400 words in the City Section, but hey, it's a start! Now I have a bona fide clip; I know how the business works; and maybe, just maybe, travel writing will be more than just a hobby for me. — Ethan Todras-Whitehill The next Travel Writing Boot Camp with James Sturz begins soon. The 12-Week Novelist (NYC)Natalie went from having a dream of novel-writing to having a literary agent to represent her
Since taking the class, I've been fortunate to have made an amazing group of friends and fellow writers. Our class has kept in touch and drawn a special bond. I've secured a literary agent for representation of the manuscript I began in class (!!!) and am working full-time to complete it. — Nathalie Hazan The next 12-Week Novelist begins soon in New York City.
|
MB OFFERS |
"I
came into Sue's class a little spoiled because I had read her memoirs and was
already a huge fan, but she lived up to all my expectations. She shared her
wealth of freelance knowledge, all her contacts, and her editing expertise.
At the first class she promised that we'd all have the chance to get published.
I sold my first piece to the 
"Sue
Shapiro's 
"Hello
from a very satisfied student, Joyce Hanson. I took Christa Bourg's autumn 2005
course, 
"I
wasn’t really sure what to expect from 
"In
a sea of writing workshops, classes and seminars around the city, 
"When
I walked into Ryan Fischer Harbage's "How to Write a Nonfiction Book Proposal
That Sells" seminar, I had a proposal for a book about competitive college
cheerleaders that I liked, but didn't love. I had lots of questions -- was my
proposal professional enough? Was it too first person? Was there anything I
was leaving out? In the seminar, Ryan showed us the sections that should be
included, told us the
"I
would highly recommend Katie Orenstein's Op-Ed Master Class. She raises the
bar for all attending the class. The expectation is for each one her students
to publish in The New York Times or another major publication. At first,
I thought it impossible; but given Katie’s fierce devotion to the craft
and to the class, it’s now a personal, and hopefully obtainable, goal.
She inspires serious thinking, contrarian points of view, and precision writing.
Be prepared to take a hard look at yourself: not only as a writer but as a persuasive
opinionist. 
"Over
the years, I've taken a bunch of classes and seminars from mediabistro. I've
been pleased with them all. Until now. Laurie's seminar was by far the best
class I have ever taken in my entire life! Not only was she enjoyable, clear,
and relevant, she's the most knowledgeable instructor I've ever had. I'm not
the type to make threats, but if you have any class by 
"I
recently finished 
"
"
"
"I
must admit that when I enrolled in Katie Orenstein's 
"I
wanted to write in about 
"Through
his professional, friendly, and knowledgeable approach, 
"I
took 
I'd
already written initial drafts of a couple of specs sitcom scripts when I
saw the class on mediabistro.com. My goal when I signed up was to get a contemporay
industry perspective on what makes a great spec. 
"This
class far exceeded my expectations. I wish that the editors I routinely work with
had James' skill with language: he is an incredibly conscientious editor, and
his comments on my pitches were always spot-on. His willingness to answer our
practical questions about pitching etiquette and the magazine business went far
beyond the call of duty.
"I
have long been a fan of 
"I
took 
"A
friend recommended that I take 
"I
found 
"Before
"Just
wanted to send a success story... about the mb 12-Week Novelist class I took last
March... I'm a writer and editor by profession, but had never written any fiction
and had no idea how or where to start. The class really helped me focus, and everyone's
suggestions were incredibly valuable. 
"As
a former managing editor and current online editor, I've been working with other
people's words for most of my professional career. I always wanted to try my hand
at magazine writing, but I wasn't sure if I had the time or the talent. MB's eClass
was the perfect opportunity to test the water. While still holding down my
full-time job, I was able to explore and develop my writing skills. 
"I
recently sold a profile I created as an assignment for my Boot Camp for Journalists
class to a local magazine here in Philadelphia called The Insider.
The feedback from the instructor, Allen Salkin, and the class was invaluable in
helping me trim and tighten the piece. Plus, it gave me the confidence to pitch
it and, even better, sell it! This class has really helped me get my "sea
legs" back after a long hiatus from writing. The wide range of assignments
has pushed me to try things I would never have thought of tackling on my own (an
art review, for instance). Most of all, I like the way Allen treats us as professionals
with all that implies. It's good to be writing again. -- Sara
Robins 
If
you're looking to take your writing to the next level, David Hochman is
your ladder. 
I'm
a magazine junkie, but nothing feeds my addiction like Self magazine. I've
been subscribing continuously for years. I've always admired the magazine's writing,
editing, and beautifully positive attitude, and I used to dream wistfully about
seeing one of my own pieces within its pages someday. Since I am a fairly beginning
magazine writer (with a day job), I'd pitched small front-of-book pieces hoping
to break in. I got some encouragement, but no clips. 
If
it weren't for mediabistro, I'd be using my 90-words-per-minute typing skills
to do data entry. Instead, I write articles for publications like Organic Style,
Travel and Leisure, Saveur, The New York Times, Luxury Homes, and USA Weekend.
My
name is Jeff Griffith and I¹m a type freak and design nerd. ("Hi, Jeff!")
Prior
to taking Kate Krader's class, I was a high-powered publicist who harbored
a secret ambition to write about food and lifestyle trends. I was getting tired
of promoting other people and seeing their names in lights. I wanted my own
share of the spotlight.
Before
the class, I was fact-checking and reviewing film, music and books, only
rarely writing in the first person voice. I had never attempted a personal essay
before and, honestly thought anything approximating the memoir genre was a bunch
of confessional jive. I signed up for Paula's class after reading "The Bitch
in the House: 26 Women Tell the Truth About Sex, Solitude, Work, Motherhood, and
Marriage," which lit the way and confirmed for me how compelling a personal
essay can be when used for the universal good. I wanted to learn to engage
readers with that sort of intimacy, to use humor as a revelatory device, and to
validate ordinary moments in time. Like Nicholson Baker; you know, nothing much
happens, but that is the point. The class has changed my life by expanding
my writing community. My classmates are so generous and accomplished
and are explicit in ordering me to get off my duff and pitch what I have written.
Paula has helped hone my writing by insisting that content comes first and that,
stylistically, how something is written matters less than what it is written about.
I am less inclined to flashy diction now and hopefully, more mindful of keeping
my narrative clean.—Nita Rao
When
I decided to take Celeste Mitchell's class, I was working for a pr firm and anxious
to make the move into editorial, but to no avail (after a year or so of interviewing
and sending out my resume). Taking the class not only kept me focused on my ultimate
goal, it also kept me hopeful. [My fellow students were] in similar situations
and realized through feedback from Celeste that I needed to keep plugging away.
With the class under my belt, I had proof that writing for magazines was a serious
goal of mine, even though I had been working in a 
Okay,
so I wasn't a complete novice when I, an aspiring freelance writer, signed up
for Boot Camp for Journalists in Chicago. Even though I now work in corporate
communications, I spent 10 of the past 15 years as a reporter for various U.S.
newspapers. But it's one thing to hold a cushy staff reporting job; it's quite
another to have to hustle to get your byline in print. Bored with my current gig,
I hoped to jumpstart my creative writing juices by doing freelance pieces for
outside publications.
I
am a freelance art director and print-production expert. I had not written anything
longer than a research paper since college. I decided to take the 12-Week Novelist
class with Rachel Resnick to find out what it takes to write a novel. The mediabistro.com
pitch was right, and the small class-size was a definitely plus. 
I
was a corporate lawyer turned entertainment and food journalist, nostalgic
for a cash-rich time when ski weekends in Park City could be hailed as easily
as yellow cabs. But self-funded trips to film festivals have a way of (self) petering
out. Soon my travel bug—getting meaner by the minute—propelled me towards
I
had always thought of travel writing as the ideal job, but I was well aware that
many others felt the same way. I decided to take
Before
taking the 12-Week Novelist, I was a branding and marketing specialist, consulting
with Fortune 500 companies and traveling to such exotic locales as Wichita and
Boise! I loved my job—in theory. The expense account, travel and respect
of high level corporate individuals was exciting, but I always found myself writing
little blurbs and short stories and saving them in my drafts folder. It was
a secret dream of mine to become a writer but I never thought it would be
possible. I decided to take the mediabistro.com class after being awoken one night
with an idea for a book title and a main character. I agonized over which
class to take for two weeks and wrote the first chapter, sending it in as my writing
sample. 
