Q: Is this workshop really free?
A: Yes. We are fortunate to receive the Helen Zell Postgraduate Fellowship in 2020-2021. This is an opportunity for us to give back to our community.
Q: What if I write essays, memoir, or novel in verse?
A: This workshop focuses on fiction. Short stories and novel chapters that don’t require an accompanying synopsis are welcome.
Q: When will I hear back about my application?
A: Our goal is to respond to each applicant within 4 weeks of receiving the application, by March 15, 2021 at the latest.
Q: What amount of work should I plan to do?
A: Read each story in your workshop and write a one page, single-spaced feedback letter to the writer. There may be extra reading (a story or two) assigned by the instructor. Each participant should ensure they can attend all the workshop sessions before applying.
Q: How many participants will be chosen?
A: We will choose 8-10 people for each workshop with either Nishanth or Karolina.
Q: How will you choose the participants?
A: The writing sample will carry the most weight. Please submit your strongest writing. The questions on the application form are for us to get to know you before workshop.
Q: Do I have to workshop the application sample?
A: No, you willl have the option to submit another piece of writing, up to 6,000 words. We consider a piece ready for workshop when you don’t know how to make it stronger, but something still feels unresolved.
Q: Do I qualify if I was 10 when I came to the States?
A: Anyone who considers themselves an immigrant writer is welcome.
Q: How will this actually work?
A: Given the pandemic, this will be an online workshop on Zoom.
Q: I have a question not addressed on this site. How can I reach you?
A: Please email us at immigrant.writers.workshop@gmail.com