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Kerrie
Registered User
(9/6/00 1:37:32 pm)
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Lazy fairy, sitting on her tale...
Ok, so this may sound REALLY lazy, but I was wondering- does anyone know if there are any inexpensive ways to take classes online in fairytales, children's lit, mythology, folklore and the like and in the end get a Masters? I really want to do it, but I can't afford to take the time out of work, but think it might help me get more involved in publishing. In the area, Simmons has the best on-site program, that I've heard of, but $2000 per class is too much for me right now (money and time). Any ideas? (I've heard of people getting honorary degrees too, but have no idea where to start with that even.)
| Heidi
Unregistered User
(9/6/00 9:59:15 pm)
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Definitely not lazy
Kerrie,
I wouldn't call you lazy. I think most of us on this board probably suffer from the opposite extreme--trying to do too much!
I know you are interested in writing and such. As I mentioned before, I explored many of these options only a few years ago when I was wrapping up my time as an undergrad. I attended a summer seminar at Simmons which was excellent, but I decided not to go there myself. The practical side of me began to wonder how an expensive and minor degree would really benefit me besides just stretching my mind more. I love education but every so often I feel the need to get practical. Besides, I kept meeting people who were working too many jobs to make ends meet in a little respected academic field.
Another program, if you are not aware of it, is at Hollins College (Virginia) where it is possible to obtain a Masters in Creative Writing for Children. The program runs in the summers and gives many students a headstart into publishing. I have met some very happy students from there at conferences. It might also be possible for you to do some distance ed work with them. You might want to investigate them. The Simmons program is focused on academia and might not suit all of your needs and/or desires.
Another opportunity would be to join the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (see www.scbwi.org). They have conferences and workshops and newsletters. The organization has a large roster--including Jane Yolen and other favorites--where you may be able to network and work with your muse. The newsletters certainly work as inspiration for sitting down and writing.
Also, with your penchant for research, you might also consider librarianship. The degree is much more useful and was just plain fun for me. I did some storytelling, lots of reading, lots of research, and had many more opportunities to move in the circles I enjoy. Interacting with the children in the library also brings you closer to seeing what the children really want to read and what they enjoy. I am a big believer in interacting with children if you are going to write for them. Many other fields hinder you from doing just that. I am not currently in librarianship, but I am considering a return with this recent move. For now I am just wearing an imaginary sign: "Out of work. Will read books for money."
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Kerrie
Registered User
(9/7/00 2:49:47 am)
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Re: Definitely not lazy
Ok, so maybe it's more tired from doing so much, too. I suppose correspondence courses have been around a while and are usually harder than going in person. Hollins definitely looks great- I'll read more about it when I get home (whenever that may be!) and write to them. I was considering the SCBWI, but for somereason decided against it- may have been the fees (though I just joined NEBA which is more) or seeming lack of activity in my area- that will be my next one! I did used to want to be a librarian, but never knew (until recently) there was a degree for it, or what I'd do after (RI didn't seem to have the best services).
Well, as I seem to not be waking up, I'm going to have to write more later. This move really knocked me out.
Have a great day all!
Kerrie
Edited by Kerrie at: 9/7/00
2:51:22 am
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