Join us for this five-week online nonfiction workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Tuesday, February 17 – Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Each Tuesday, 6:00pm EPT – see schedule
Led by Sam Heaps
Limited to 12 participants
How do our individual experiences reflect the systems within which we exist? In this generative workshop, we will learn the art of imitation, refraction and distortion in memoir and personal essays. Using Foucault’s Las Meninas as a foundation, we will read work from writers like Elizabeth Gilbert, Seo-Young Chu, Hilton Als and Paisley Rekdal, exploring topics from private investigation, to travel, trauma and the love of animals. The methods these writers use for sharing insights about our world will inspire us to write personal narratives from fresh perspectives. Writers of all levels are welcome. Come empty-handed or bring works-in-progress to revise.
“You created a positive and supportive environment with opportunities to analyze, discuss, create and connect. I enjoyed meeting fellow writers and giving and receiving feedback.”
~ Andrea, Tenafly, NJ
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Sam Heaps is the author of the memoir Proximity (Clash 2023), the novella The Living god (SARKA Publishing 2025) and the essay collection Enlarging Grasps of Disorder (FutureTense 2026). They have received support from Tin House, VCCA, Philadelphia Culture Works and many other residencies and programs. They currently teach writing at Temple University.
Visit their website to learn more.
How It Works
COMPONENTS
The major components of our five-week workshops typically include variations of the following elements: inspiring craft models, writing assignments, discussions and sharing. The organization and emphasis of these elements is dependent on the workshop leader’s vision. Their goal is to get you inspired and writing!
Schedule
The course will be held over Zoom for five Tuesdays at 6:00pm EPT:
- Tuesday, February 17
- Tuesday, February 24
- Tuesday, March 3
- Tuesday, March 10
- Tuesday, March 17
The duration of these weekly meetings is dependent on the number of participants registered. If up to 7 participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:00-7:30pm. If 8+ participants register, the meetings will take place from 6:00-8:00pm.
Each week’s materials will be made available beforehand so you have a chance to review them ahead of time.
You will receive further details about each deadline and assignment after you enroll in the course.
technical requirements
Materials for the course will be shared using a free online platform called Canvas. You will need a computer or tablet and internet access in order to use Canvas. You will also need access to word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word).
To fully participate in the weekly Zoom sessions, you will need access to a webcam and microphone. Those built in to a laptop, tablet or smart phone will do.
Pricing + Registration
Tuition — SLIDING SCALE: $350-$450
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $350 and $450. If you are able to pay at the higher end of the scale, you will help Murphy Writing offer affordable programming and scholarships for writers.
Tuition INCLUDEs
- A curated selection of readings, craft notes and prompts to inspire you each week
- Access to a private space for sharing your writing with your workshop leader and fellow participants
- Five dedicated Zoom calls with your workshop leader and fellow participants
If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, email us at murphywriting@stockton.edu.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct
- Full fee due upon registration
Cancellation Policy
- By February 10 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs through June 2026
- After February 10 — No refund or credit
“The program was incredibly nourishing, useful and so much fun. Thank you for translating these workshops to an online medium so elegantly.”
~ Nina, New York, NY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their courses to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
I’ve taken dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Our faculty challenges experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, they will compel you to go deeper, take more risks and experiment with form and content. We know that experienced writers benefit from our programs based on the fact that hundreds of “re-PETERs” have attended three or more of our writing getaways.
I’ve never taken an online workshop before. Do I need special equipment?
No. If you’re reading this website, you probably have everything you need to take this course. You can participate using a laptop or desktop computer, or even a tablet or smart phone.
meet our community
View our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.
Questions?
Email murphywriting@stockton.edu.
Write with us.
