Join us for this five-week online memoir workshop. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Tuesday, April 21 – Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Each Tuesday, 6:00pm EDT – see schedule
Led by Sienna Zeilinger
Limited to 12 participants
Many memoir drafts languish in the space of interiority, failing to hook readers or advance the narrative. How can we make ourselves understood without getting caught up in endless introspection and over-explanation? In this supportive, lighthearted workshop, we’ll read memoirs and personal essays that illuminate the self by focusing our attention beyond it. We’ll write to generative prompts as we consider some ways to look outward—from research to interview, immersion to pop culture fixation—that allow us to tell our deeper stories with more resonance. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome.
“As a first timer, the community opened their arms to me. I would recommend this workshop again and would definitely come back in the future.”
~ Sarah, South Amboy, NJ
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Sienna Zeilinger lives in Philadelphia and is originally from Cleveland, Ohio. Her writing is published or forthcoming in The Cincinnati Review, CutBank, Passages North, and elsewhere. She is the recipient of The Florida Review Editors Prize, the Ohioana Library Association’s Walter Rumsey Marvin Grant, and the Montana Prize, and has been supported by the Bread Loaf Writers’ Conference. Her essay “Surge” was named a Notable Essay in The Best American Essays 2023. Sienna is an editor at Autofocus Books and a graduate of the MFA Program at Rutgers University-Camden, where she now works as Program Coordinator.
“Murphy Writing has always energized me and improved my writing skills. Thanks to everyone.”
~ Rodney, Yardville, NJ
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 workshop will be held over Zoom for five Tuesdays at 6:00pm EDT:
- Tuesday, April 21
- Tuesday, April 28
- Tuesday, May 5
- Tuesday, May 12
- Tuesday, May 19
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
“”I was able to tap into memories and go places in my writing I had never been before.”
~ Chelsea, Galloway, NJ
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.
