Explore the modern and popular craft of memoir writing. Every person has a story to tell. No matter your age, education, family, or location, your life is filled with tales big and small. Through workshopping and class critiques, students will explore how to shape their memories into cohesive and compelling narratives. Topics will include character development, setting a scene, authentic dialogue, building your story arc, and compelling opening sentences. Responding to weekly prompts, participants will share short writing assignments each class. School Policies Students who withdraw 48 hours prior to the first class are eligible for a refund or credit toward another class, less a $25 registration fee. Please click here for more details.

Term: Fall 2025

Suggested Ages: 18+

Dates: 9/11–10/30

Learn how to transform your personal experiences, ideas, and inner conflicts into compelling memoir and fiction. Through guided writing and supportive feedback, students build both the courage and craft needed for authentic storytelling. The course blends memoir and fiction techniques, with projects ranging from personal memoir pieces to imaginative fiction. Students will complete a final work—up to 3,000 words—that can be either a short memoir, short story, or the beginning of a longer piece. Beginning with personal stories, students learn how to explore and reshape their experiences into creative narratives—turning fears into characters and inner conflicts into dramatic tension. Taught by Zay Amsbury, Chair of the Creative Writing Department at the California State Summer School for the Arts, the course reflects Zay’s 20+ years of experience inspiring students to discover their authentic voices and push creative boundaries. School Policies Students who withdraw 48 hours prior

Term: Fall 2025

Suggested Ages: 18+

Dates: 9/16–12/16