FAQ's about Women Writing for (a) Change ~ Vermont

1. How much time will I need to spend each week writing?
    That really depends upon your personal commitment to developing/maintaining a regular writing practice. For some, a daily practice works best; for others, a page or time commitment per week. The most important considerations are consistency and commitment.

2. Will there be assignments?
    We offer writing prompts each week to help inspire your writing between meetings. While these relate to the themes and exercises that weave through the semester, they are only suggestions. You are always free to follow your own muse.

3. How many meetings can I miss in a given 15-week session without getting too far behind?
    Very few women can manage their schedules to attend all 15 meetings. On the other hand, missing more than three can feel like a huge loss to the other members of a woman's small group, who count on one another for good listening, support and feedback.

4. I really want to write in a supportive community like this, but cannot carve out 15 consecutive weeks.
    We offer a Tuesday evening class that meets on alternate weeks for individuals in that situation. In addition, Weekend Retreats appeal to women who either live too far away or whose schedules prevent the full 15-week commitment. In addition, the four-day summer retreat is an option for women who want to write in a concentrated way. Other opportunities are always evolving. Check our website from time to time to see if something might work for you. You may also contact us with a suggestion for alternate formats. This is how the Third Thursday celebration circles and First Monday Mixed Media evenings came about!

5. What does it mean, that you are creating an intentional community?
    In part, that we gather to write as a vehicle to greater awareness and intention in our lives. This means that each woman who joins this community takes active responsibility for her contributions to the whole: from bringing weekly writing, to asking for specific feedback, to communicating absences ahead of time, to bringing an open heart and leaving behind a critical mind.
    It also means that women often return for multiple semesters, creating a sense of continuity and community over time. Unlike an academic course where a certain topic or skill set is covered in a given semester, our sessions are more experiential. How you approach this work largely determines what you gain from it.

6. How many women are in a typical circle?
    We generally have 10 - 12 per circle, which allows us to create small groups of three or four where your writing gets heard and responded to every week according to the specific kinds of feedback you request.

7. I don't know anything about giving critique.
    We don't offer typical critique. Rather, we lift up what is strong and powerful in each woman's writing. Learning how to give and receive constructive feedback is a major focus of our work together. And our writing deepens as we listen to one another, learn from one another.

8. Can I make up a missed meeting by attending a different day?
    No, you do not go back and forth between groups, as building a community of trust is integral to our work. There is no 'make up' opportunity per se. We do, however, send all materials to you the day you miss so you can keep current.

9. Can I come by the school when meetings are not in session?
    We currently offer weekly Writing Cafe on Wednesday from 10am to 2pm; this is an opportunity to write in a dedicated and quiet space. From time to time, and if no one else is working there, individuals will ask for private consultation during those hours. Generally, however, outside of scheduled activities, it is best to make an appointment to meet with Sarah at the writing studio.

If you have a question that is not answered here,
please do not hesitate to contact us with it!