Grub Street, Inc. Boston, Writers' Workshop
The Greater Boston area is home to hundreds of rich writing resources, from writing classes and groups to writers' colonies, conferences (www.examiner.com/Boston-Writing-Careers-conferences) and retreats.
And then there are the readings. Well-known authors of all types of fiction and nonfiction books come to Boston to discuss their work and the literary life—and of course, tell eager writers how to get their own books published.
If a full-time job as a writer is what you're after, you'll need to constantly stretch your writing muscles. Fortunately, this area's got more than its quota of renowned writing programs to choose from. Look into those offered by local higher education institutions such as Boston University, Harvard University, and Emerson College (which also has a graduate program in publishing). Check out the well-regarded courses sponsored by organizations dedicated solely to writing, like Grub Street, Inc. (www.grubstreet.org). And visit Tools & Tactics for Creative Writers.
Don't overlook the adult education programs, such as those held all year around by the Cambridge Center for Adult Education (www.ccae.org) and other local establishments catering to the adult learner. You'll find courses in technical, legal, science, and grant writing, as well as copy writing, feature writing, and all sorts of creative writing.
Until you're an established writer, try submitting your early writing efforts to town newspapers, which typically welcome well-written stories, targeted to their local readers. Granted, the pay is ridiculously low (experienced writers might get only ten dollars for a 500-word article), but your byline and clips will impress potential employers, once you're published. And you get to have your work edited by a bona fide journalist, an experience that can translate into future earnings for you.
Whether you want to work for an organization or strike out on your own as a professional writer, stay tuned for detailed tips on how to develop a robust writing career, and how to find writing jobs in just about any field.
Learn about marketing communications writing careers at: www.examiner.com/Boston-Writing-Careers.
Comments
Great tips and pushed me to get going. Also - although I probably should not admit it, but before reading Lynette's article, I wasn't familiar with grubstreet! Thank you
Yes! To stretch with confidence requires good balance and support. Thanks Lynette for providing solid information. I look forward to becoming a more limber writer b/c of it.
Lynette, as always you are informative and will written. I will pass this article on to my co-workers and friends.
In the future, would you please make a note of which programs are free? And perhaps, give a rough idea of how much the colleges charge versus the adult eds versus the et al?
Much obliged!
Great article, very informative. Almost makes me wish I was in Boston to particpate. I did subscribe though so I can keep abreast of your tips!!!
It's great to see all these tips and resources in one place! I look forward to seeing more articles from you, especially about creative writing. Keep up the good work.
As a fellow writer and examiner I love your articles!
Great article, Lynette! Very encouraging and informative. I re-posted this on the Simmons College Career Resource Library Facebook Page!
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