FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I know which workshop is right for me? What is the difference between beginner, intermediate, and advanced?
Begin by reading the course descriptions carefully. If you have questions, email us at exec@westportwriters.org or call the office at (203) 227-3250, and we are happy to help place you in the class that best fits your writing goals and needs.
Our beginner/introductory classes are for writers just starting out or who haven’t written in a very long time and crave more instruction. The intermediate classes are for writers who have taken a few workshops either here or elsewhere and are ideal for writers in their second year of study. Our advanced classes require the permission of the instructor. Short manuscript submission is required. Please contact the office if you are interested in registering for advanced classes.
Our workshops that do not require a level are open to writers of all levels. Instructors will cater these classes to varying skill levels and all will benefit from working with writers at different stages of the process.
How many writers are in each workshop?
For the most part, we cap each class at 7 participants. Occasionally, an instructor will make an exception and allow one or two more. Our Saturday Seminars that do not include writers sharing their work, can include as many as 10 participants.
Will I have the chance to read my work aloud?
In most workshops, writers read their work aloud followed by feedback and extensive discussion among workshop participants and the workshop leader. The exception to this is some of our weekend workshops that focus on the business and marketing side of writing.
I can’t afford these prices at this point. Do you offer scholarships?
We are pleased to provide a limited number of partial scholarships for our classes. To apply, please visit our SCHOLARSHIPS page and submit the form.
What is pre-registration?
Our pre-registration period allows us to keep students in a full workshop who have studied together in the same group for purposes of continuity. We give first priority to students from the previous semester who wish to continue with their current class. Following the pre-registration period, classes will be open to those on the waiting list and new registrants.
I’m not sure I’m ready for a workshop yet, but I’d like to get some feedback on my work. Do you offer one-on-one coaching or editing?
Yes, all of our instructors are available for coaching and editing. Visit our EDITING & COACHING page to learn more about our large menu of services, from query letter to full manuscript critiques and everything in between.
Do you offer refunds if I’m unable to take the workshop I signed up for?
Students withdrawing more than three weeks before the start of the first workshop will receive a refund or full credit toward a future workshop. No refund will be given for students withdrawing less than 3 weeks prior to the start of the workshop, or after the first meeting of the workshop, regardless of whether the student attended the workshop.
I see that you’re a non-profit and I love to support the arts. How can I donate?
Thank you for asking! Visit our SUPPORT US page to learn more.