Earlier this week I attended a writing workshop sponsored by scribes @ ASU. The purpose of scribes is to further the social, cultural, and academic interests of the students enrolled in a literature-based degree program at Arizona State University. Typically, our club spends up to the first 1 1/2 hours workshopping peer work submitted for review. The remaining time we discuss publishing opportunities, brainstorm ideas, and participate in writing exercises. Although I am somewhat biased as co-founder and managing director, I strongly believe in the purpose and benefits of writing workshops.
Personally speaking, I am able to practice critically reading and analyzing a variety of genres and styles, as well as cultivate an open-mind and an appreciation for constructive suggestions pertaining to my own work. Additionally, I enjoy the opportunity to stretch outside the box of my comfort level to explore a new perspective or point-of-view. Most importantly, for me there’s nothing like collaborating with others who share a similar calling to write. That, alone, makes a believer out of me. ~ cs