In Our Words: Reflections on the Year That Was

As we wrapped up the program year, girls shared wisdom gained after exploring new worlds of writing from travel journalism to fan fiction. What’s the view like after a year of writing mentorship? Join us in reflecting on girls’ hopes and goals, and don’t forget to check out the latest excerpts from their Portfolios.

Karla says:

• “Through my participation in Girls Write Now, I’ve learned to become a conscious and considerate writer, someone who sits down, takes the computer, and doesn’t shy away from the jumbles in her mind. GWN has challenged me to become more aware of the little things in life as well, to pay attention to the cracks in my neighbor’s windows or the color of the seats in a subway train.”

Karla read her original piece “Our Missing Half” at CHAPTERS this year, describing her first meeting with her half-brother:

Bushra says:

• “Every time I attended a workshop, I was crazily inspired to try new ways of writing. I learned that I am definitely capable of writing, even in a genre that I’ve never explored before. I never realized this talent of mine, until I came to Girls Write Now and heard women writers speak of their experiences and share their wealth of knowledge with me. GWN has helped me take all the small and big steps, so now, I’m ready take an even bigger step and aim for something I never thought of before. Now that writing is my thing, I plan on showing off my writing more, and participating more in future workshops.”

Watch Bushra read her mystery piece “The Package” at our March CHAPTERS reading:

Corrine says:

• “At the first workshop, I didn’t take creative risks because I thought poetry wasn’t something I could ever be good at, and therefore enjoy. However, at the penultimate workshop for site-specific playwriting, another genre I thought I would fail in, I did the exercises and wrote without barriers. I learned, over the course of the season, that with a diverse, supportive writing community surrounding me, I should do my best with every piece of writing, even if I’m not so sure of my skills.”

Watch Corrine’s CHAPTERS Reading, “Expectations”:

Ashley says:

• “By experimenting and taking risks, I learned what it truly means to be the author of my work. Before when I kept getting discouraged by people’s negative comments, I was too timid and shy to say anything. Now I have pushed through that negativity to go on a journey and find my own voice in writing. I have fresh ideas coming to mind every day now and I love the feeling. It gives me the purpose to share my stories with the world.”

Ashley’s chill-inducing piece about twins Deryk and Emy is available to read, or watch “The Awakening” now: