The schedule for a new student as his writing tutor is on the calendar. I’m excited to begin working with this young man, collaborating to help him become a better, more self-assured writer.
My passion for writing and teaching was ignited as a returned undergraduate at the University of Rhode Island; encouraged to read, write, and explore the magic of words by a beloved teacher Professor Nancy Potter. For two semesters Nancy animated the writings of William Faulkner in ways that brought the Southern storytelling tradition to life – visceral, tangible, palpable. I was hooked.
After earning my MFA from the Graduate Writing Program at Brown University, I was certified to teach at the college level. Once four of my poems were published in four literary journals, that affirmation verified I’d made the correct choice to go into writing instead of law.
Fast forward a few years – my resume was in the right place at the right time and I began my teaching career at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and Bryant University (then Bryant College). Again, I was hooked.
I relished the challenge of inspiring undergraduates to become better, more committed and excited writers and thinkers. Seeing the lights in their eyes, that “Ah-ha moment” when something clicked and they got it. It was contagious. If they learned as much about writing as I learned about teaching I did my job.
As a long-time independent, freelance writer, collaborting with clients was, again, a teaching situation – asking questions, clarifying intentions, focusing in on desired audiences, creating strategic articles, press releases, and all. I still love the process of communicating and creating.
It’s a joy to come back into teaching the challenges, process, and rewards of writing with this young man. I hope he’s as excitied as I am. Time will tell.
Reach out if I can help you become a better writer. My calendar has openings – either face-to-face or virtual via Zoom or Skype.
Jessan Dunn Otis|Writer 