Sunday, September 27, 2009
This or That? A or B? Jersey or Silk?
I've been considering taking an online class for a while now. It's something I've never done. I guess I'm old school. It seems strange to me to take a class yet not physically sit in a lecture hall with a spiral notebook and my favorite Paper Mate pen. I love being part of a class; sharing a common interest with others. Will an online class leave me lonely and unmotivated? The course description talks about "classmates", but who are these people? How will I know who to sit next to if I can't see anyone? This is starting to sound like that dorky TV show, Dating in the Dark. Yes, I'm ashamed to admit I watched some pathetic TV programs this summer.
There are actually two classes I'm considering. Both are writing classes. I learned about these classes from The Writer Mama Riffs blog. I'm pretty sure I'm going to take one of these classes. I just need to figure out which one.
The first class is called Writing and Publishing the Short Stuff (Especially for Moms!) [WPSS]. I love the title. I love the idea of this class. You work on writing and submitting short articles to get your feet wet so that you can move on to lengthier pieces when you're ready. This class sounds like it was made for me. Of course it's for me. I meet the prerequisite... I'm a mom.
The only problem is what kind of articles can I write? What subjects am I an expert in? I guess these are the things you examine about yourself in the class. This sounds like a great way to figure out "what I'm going to be when I grow up." While this sounds great, it also scares the heck out of me. What if I have nothing to write about? What do I know enough about that a magazine would actually publish? Here we go...I'm starting to talk myself out of this. The only difference is I'm actually sharing the idea first.
The second class is called Personal Essays That Get Published. In this class you're supposed to "get real and personal". Write about your own life. Now, this I feel more comfortable with. It seems like a natural extension of what I'm doing here with this blog. And if I can earn some money from writing what I already know, it sounds like a perfect fit. This class seems safe. Interesting, yet comfortable. Aaaaahhhhh.....
So...which class do I choose? Do I go with what makes me comfortable? A simple jersey dress. Or....do I go with WPSS and push myself to put on one of those unworn silky dresses in my closet? My inner voice is telling me jersey is more practical. Of course it is...
The classes start October 7th. I need to make a decision already! HELP!!!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
10 comments:
I have the same concern about online classes. Scared I will have NO motivation. Very curious to hear how it goes. Sounds like you really wan tot take the second class. So go for it. You can always take the other class next time it's offered.
Ok, so i'll stir the pot and put my vote in for the WPSS. What good is a class if it doesn't push you? (Plus, that's the class -I- would take if I could.) Have you read the Writer Mama book and done the exercises? I bet you are an expert on more than you realize. How about coping with sixth graders? How do I help my sixth grader with his math homework when I don't know how to do it myself? What questions should I be asking at parent-teacher conferences? LOTS of people write about early childhood education. NO ONE writes about middle school. You are an expert at raising ballerinas, no? You are an expert at raising good sleepers. Looks like you might know a few things about cruiser bikes and indian folklore too. Do you know how to do research? You don't have to be an expert on something as long as you know how to research! ;) (are you sorry you asked for opinions now?)
Start with the one that makes you most comfortable. If you are unsure about an oline class to begin with (I am too) then ease into it. Take that one, then once you get the feel of it, take the second one! I'm sure you'll do great at both!
I don't like reading essays from expert moms. I much prefer the non-expert mom, the one that's in the trenches, doing the best she can, making the mistakes we all make, but handling them with grace and humor.
Don't doubt yourself. You have something to say, stories to tell. Just write what only you can write.
Good Luck!
Shelley
I "think" the vote so far is 3-1 in favor of "jersey". How I love jersey! :)
Corey - If an IRL class was offered in my area, my butt would be in a chair, but it's not an option so I'll try this online class. I'll keep you posted on my motivation...or lack of, as the case may be.
Fawn - I need people like you behind me. Thank you for the pep talk. I think the Essay class will push me. Just in a different direction. And, hey, I want to wait until you're ready to take WPSS so I know who to sit next to. ;)
Amy - I like the way you think. I can do both. One step at a time.
Shelley - Well, good then. Since I'm no expert, I'm hoping you'll continue to read my blog. :) I'll be looking forward to grabbing my share of your Bibbity Bloggity Boo (love how you changed that!) when I'm ready. Thank you!
I think this blog is giving you great practice writing about yourself - your life. Why not stretch a little and go for the silk? (P.S. I took an online course - very hard to connect - but they make a good attempt at using Sharepoint and other blogging devices to keep you "talking" with your classmates.)
Don't sign up yet! I vote for the first class. You always go for the jersey dress! What about trying on the dresses in the back of the closet with the tags still on?! Kim, you can do this...take the leap. Isn't that what this journey is all about? You don't have to be an expert on a topic to talk about...it's all about discovery, experience, and your point of view. Oh before your mind takes to you to the "safe" place....yes, your point of view matters and it is worth it. Stop thinking that you can't. Please don't go for the safe and comfortable. Put the jersey dress aside for now.....
OUCH! That makes the score 3-3? It's a tie then. Unless some other wise friend speaks up, I guess the decision is back to me.
Thanks a lot! *sticks tongue out at Anne and Nicole*
We've known you longer - our vote counts twice! :)
I second that!!
Post a Comment