Classes for 2023
Classes are being offered online through Zoom at UNM Continuing Education.
To register, call 505-277-0077 or go to ce.unm.edu. For information about a class, call Carol at 505-235-9753
Connect to Your Creative Self Through Writing
Jan 25 through Feb. 15 Tuesday, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
It’s never too late to awaken your creative potential, connect to your source of inspiration and create something new. Writing is a powerful tool for exploration, self-expression, and personal and professional development. You don’t need to put your work into the public eye to benefit from following the quiet “nudges” from your Creative Self.
Whether you’re interested in transitioning to writing fiction, memoir, or nonfiction, or simply want to explore your creativity, learning to trust the creative impulse and develop habits that nurture it are critical. Your Creative Self has something to say. You can live your best life by listening to that inner wisdom.
Opening Up: Writing for Healing
Feb 23 through March 16, Thursday, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Personal journal writing helps us navigate uncertainty, stress, and dislocation. When our lives are turned upside down, it’s normal to experience unease and frustration. Writing about what’s going on helps us move through the experience and develop new strategies for the future. In a safe, supportive environment, we will explore simple yet powerful writing techniques that enhance well-being and help develop resilience. The benefits of this type of journaling are similar to those derived from yoga and meditation.
No writing experience is necessary.
Writing the Story of Your Life
Feb 21 through Mar 16, Tuesday, 4:00-6:00 PM
Our stories tell us where we’re been, what we’ve learned, and who we are. As we write, we remember, evaluate, and deepen our perspective. If you want to explore your life story, whether for legacy, published memoir, inspiration for fiction, or personal development, this course will give you the tools you need. Classes include writing exercises, prompts, resources, and discussion. No previous writing experience is necessary.
The Elements of Story
April 5 through May 10, Wednesday, 5:30–7:30 PM
Are you ready to tell your stories? Fiction or creative nonfiction, all stories have common elements. Learn about effective beginnings and endings. Develop memorable characters doing fascinating things in settings that jump off the page. We’ll cover internal and external plots, description, scene and narrative, and how to choose the best point of view. No writing experience required, only a strong desire to get those stories out of your head and onto the page. Safe, supportive environment for beginners and experienced writers
The Writer’s Mindset: How to Keep Writing Until You Finish That Book!
May 2 through May 10, Tuesday, 5:30–7:30 PM
Are you writing or thinking about writing a book, short story, or essay? Do you find that keeping on track with your goals is a challenge? You may be experiencing doubt, lack of confidence or simply feeling overwhelmed. You’re not alone. Many writers have great ideas, but aren’t sure how to get started and maintain a writing practice. Being a writer means making choices, finding good resources, and setting goals that are reasonable, given your life situation.
The Writer’s Mindset will help you stop thinking about writing and get to work! Practical strategies, helpful resources, and practice lead to a productive writing practice. You will learn how to short-circuit the messages of the inner critic so you can write with joy and abandon.