StoryStudio Answers All
What is StoryStudio Chicago?StoryStudio Chicago is the center for writing and related arts. That means we offer classes, events, networking, writing cafes, and readings year-round in a cool space for students to learn about writing and to practice the craft.
Whether you’re interested in improving your creative writing or your business writing, StoryStudio can help.
Why is StoryStudio different?
There are lots of places to take classes—both in person and online. We know that you can find a class at a university or with a teacher who might hold class out of her/his home. But as far as we know, StoryStudio Chicago is the only private school devoted to writing in Chicago that offers a wide variety of classes, instructors, events, and ongoing support for writers.
Our classes are held in our studio at 4043 N. Ravenswood in both classrooms and lounge areas with a sofa and futon. There’s art and photo essays on the walls; coffee, tea and water in the kitchen. In short, StoryStudio provides an atmosphere to encourage creativity and comfort.
StoryStudio is run not by academic administrators, but writers like you who started the center because we wanted a place like this where we could learn and hang out!
What classes do you offer?
We offer a wide range of classes for beginners as well as advanced writers. There are several Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction classes as well as workshops focused on a particular genre such as personal essay, novel writing, science fiction and more. We’re always adding to the schedule so if there is something you’d like to see offered, let us know.
In addition, we make sure to offer our classes in a variety of formats from 6- and 8-week terms to shorter 4-week classes, one-day workshops and even one-night classes.
Plus, Our Business Writing program can help you with the writing you do at work.
I’m just a beginner. Will I fit in the class?
Absolutely! We love writers who are just starting out and offer lots of opportunities for you to get involved. Definitely take a look at Creative Writing I and Fiction I or any of our 1-Night workshops. Or, you can take a look at our Which Class Should I Take? chart.
I’ve been writing a long time and am published/accomplished/have my MFA. Does StoryStudio offer me anything?
Most definitely! We offer advanced writer’s workshops, novel and short story workshops, as well as a growing selection of Master Classes. Our senior students are often featured in readings and enjoy a chance to grow as artists in a comfortable space. Many take advantage of writing time at our monthly Write-a-Thons.
Do you offer Advanced or Master classes?
We do offer advanced classes and ongoing writers workshops. (see above.) We have added a growing selection of more advanced, concentrated classes as well as ongoing workshops. You can also take a look at our Which Class Should I Take? chart.
Which class is the best fit for me?
This depends on what you’re writing and what your writing goals are. Take a look at our Which Class Should I Take? chart. Definitely give us a call at 773.477.7710 and we’ll help you determine where to start.
Can I sit in on a class before I sign up for one?
Because we keep our classes small and a strong community is developed within each class, we don’t allow casual observers. However, we do offer a wide range of one-night workshops and Write-a-Thons throughout the year which are terrific ways to dip your toes in the waters of StoryStudio.
Who are the instructors?
We love our instructors! They are a talented and courageous mix of working writers with specialties and experience that span all genres. Many are multi-talented with expertise in both fiction and non-fiction. Faculty members tend to teach on a rotating basis and like to come in to lead salons or book discussions. You can read about all of our instructors at: www.storystudiochicago.com/.
How are the classes structured? Is there much reading or homework?
Most of the classes are built around a specific syllabus that the teacher has constructed specifically for that course. For example, in our short story classes you are expected to read several chosen short stories over the course of the semester, as well as stories written by your peers for workshop and critique.
How many students are in each class?
For the most part, classes are limited to 5 to 15 students per class to allow the most interaction and discussion. However, some of our 1-night classes as well as special programs and events do not limit the number of participants.
What does “workshop” mean?
Workshop is a term used to describe students sharing their work to receive critical feedback from their peers. It’s a vital part of learning the writing craft and almost all of our classes include a workshop component. In fact, most students tend to pick this aspect of class as one of the most helpful.
I’m not interested in taking a class. Are there other programs offered?
We are always offering events and programming related to writing and reading. Our Write-a-Thons happen once a month between September and April. We throw some fantastic parties where you can mix and mingle with other writers and from time to time, we offer "salon" discussions and "potluck" readings for our members.
Do you offer discounts or a sliding scale?
StoryStudio Chicago is a small business so we’re not yet big enough to extend a sliding scale. But we are happy to work with you on a payment plan. We require a $50 deposit to hold your place in a class; the course fee balance must be paid in full by the first class session. Just give us a call to find out more!
My job took over my life and I can’t come to class. Can I get a refund? Do you pro-rate courses if I miss a session?
Alas, sometimes unexpected commitments arise and we understand that. But unfortunately, we are not able to offer any refunds, pro-rated course fees, or credits. (Please see our full Refund Policy at the bottom of the registration page) Once you have reserved a spot in class, we do not make that place available; therefore, even if you are unable to attend a class session or must drop a course, we’re not able to fill that spot.
Do you offer online classes?
We're pleased to say that StoryStudio will begin offering online classes late in 2010. The software will be easy to use and we'll be putting our own special brand of teaching, group discussion and interactivity into the mix. Send us an email if you want to know when the first classes are available.
We also have many students outside of Chicago who work with our coaches on a one-to-one basis via email and phone. If you’re interested in private instruction or manuscript reviews, look at our Coaching Program or call us at 773.477.7710.
Do you offer private instruction?
Yes we do. Our Coaching Program offers either private instruction or manuscript reviews. You can get the details online or simply call us at 773.477.7710.
My Girlfriend/Boyfriend/Wife/husband/Sister/Brother/Mother/Father (you get the picture) is a great writer. Can I buy a class for her/him? Of course! We offer Gift Certificates in any denomination that are good for any class, event or private coaching.
Where are you and how do I get there?
If you’re taking the CTA: take the brown line to the Irving Park stop. When you get out of the station, turn East and walk under the tracks to Ravenswood (where there is a stoplight. BEWARE: there is a Ravenswood on BOTH sides of the tracks. You want to be on the East side.) Turn North, or Right onto Ravenswood and we're just a half a block away: 4043 N. Ravenswood, #222.
Or, the Lincoln, Irving Park, Ashland and Montrose buses all stop within blocks of the studio.
If you’re driving: Give us a call and we can help with driving directions. But the easiest way to get here is to get yourself to Irving Park Road, then head north on Ravenswood. Make sure you’re on Ravenswood that is on the EAST side of the tracks. Our closest intersecting street is Belle Plaine and there is plenty of parking in front of the building in the evenings.