FAQ: Writing Academy 1 and 2
Below are answers to our most often asked questions about our writing programs. If you do not find what you are looking for, email the appropriate Writing Academy Manager.
Writing Academy 1 (WA1): finnian.burnett@goldencrown.org
Writing Academy 2 (WA2): tammy.bird@goldencrown.org
We would love to hear from you!
What is the cost of the program?
The WA 1 is 1500.00 for the nine-months of instruction. This includes one-on-one mentoring.
The WA 2 is 1500.00 for the nine-months of instruction. This includes one-on-one mentoring.
Are there scholarships available?
There are currently four full scholarship options for the Writing Academy 1 and 2. Please click here for more information.
There are are several partial scholarships available for both academies. We also offer payment plans.
If you'd like to sponsor a student or donate to the scholarship fund, please contact us at education@goldencrown.org
What days/times are classes?
WA 1 classes run for about an hour on Saturdays at noon EST/9 AM PST.
WA 2 classes run for 1-2 hours, depending on the workshop scheduled, on Saturdays at 2 PM EST/11 AM PST.
What if I miss a class?
Though we expect you to try to be at every class, we know life happens. If you miss a class, you can catch up by watching the recording.
Will I be graded on my work?
We don't assign letter grades to class assignments. Rather, the professors critique them and give feedback on the concepts covered.
Do I have to have a completed novel to take this program?
Not everyone comes through the program with a full novel. For the WA1, writers of every level can benefit from the instruction and feedback, whether they're working on the rough draft of a completed novel or starting from scratch.
For the WA2, writers should be close to or already have a completed novel.
Will I be published if I take this course?
Many of our students have gone on to publish the work they created during their time in the academy. You will be introduced to writers and publishers within the sapphic community and you will be given advice and tips on submitting to publishers. We do not, however, guarantee publication
What kinds of classes can I expect to take?
We have a wide range of classes in each of our programs:
Point of view
Mastering natural characters
Creating conflict
Scene-writing
Query letters and pitch sessions
Writing diverse characters
Dialogue
Query letters
Publishing options
and so much more.
A sample schedule is available on request.
What are the qualifications of the instructors?
The Writing Academy chooses professors based on academic degrees, teaching experience, established bodies of work, and distinction within the field. Guest speakers are generally well-established writers with a special talent in the subject on which they are speaking. Mentors are well-established writers with an award-winning body of work and experience mentoring writers.
I want to know more without joining the mailing list. What should I do?
If you need more information about the Writing Academy 1, please reach out to WA 1 manager Finnian Burnett (they/them) at finnian.burnett@goldencrown.org.
If you need more information about the Writing Academy 2, please reach out to WA 2 manager Tammy Bird (she/her) at tammy.bird@goldencrown.org
If you have general education-related question, please email education@goldencrown.org and we will see your question goes to the right department.
You can also follow us on Twitter or join us on the Writing Academy Channel on the GCLS social hub.
Is there anything else I should know?
I asked one of our current students what she wished she had known before she started and she wrote:
How much more I would learn about things I thought I already knew pretty well.
That getting up early on Saturday mornings would become a welcome thing.
That I would make such awesome friends.
Many of our past students are still friends with their classmates. The interactive format, the peer-review forums, and the optional writing dates create a bond of peers that can last a lifetime.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.