Wanna get started on that dream to become a writer by learning how to write a script, magazine article, entertainment blog or a novel? You might want to check out the classes offered by Mediabistro — an online salon for media professionals.
Founder and CEO Laurel Touby interviewed on About.com:
We offer advanced education about media. We’re teaching you the most important things that every media person needs to know. It’s like going to a slow grad school.
They’ve got tons of interesting courses that might be up your alley. AND as part of the site’s Back to School Sale, if you sign up for a class by August 31 you can also get a seminar for free.
A few of the classes offered:
Screenwriting: Write a complete screenplay, start to finish, with a master teacher. September 10–December 3, $610.
Novel Writing: Draft your novel and learn about the business of getting it published. With Maria A. Del Toro (Underneath It All). September 11-December 5, $610.
Online Entertainment Writing (online): Get a job breaking news for leading websites and blogs. With Pauline Millard (Editor & Publisher, Associated Press). September 17-October 15, $350.
Writing the TV Spec Script: Create a snappy spec script that will show agents, producers and networks you’re ready for the writer’s room. With producer Chad Gervich. September 26-December 12, $610. Also: TV Pitch Package starts Sept. 18 (Online).
And would you like a free boost with that? Some of the free seminar choices:
- How to Write for Magazines – Sept. 6
- How to Sell Articles About Sex and Relationships – Sept. 20
- Investigative Journalism 101 – Sept. 27
- Writing the Reality Show – Sept. 11
- Writing for Video Games – Sept. 18
- Reinvent Yourself – Sept. 24
For more information, email learn.info@mediabistro.com or call (888) 589-1963 x313.
BTW, besides offering classes mediabistro also has a really extensive media job listings section, which I occasionally like to browse and fantasize about. Hmm, senior producer for MTV.com/music or senior style editor at Hachette Filipacchi? And the site also throws monthly parties where you can mingle with other media professionals while enjoying drink specials and free appetizers.
FYI, for the volunteering sort, if you volunteer to help out at the parties and seminars you can get a free seminar, a discount off a longer course or an AvantGuild membership after you volunteer for three gigs.