Course

Every day there are moments that could inspire a personal essay: finding your late mother’s favorite shoes, exploding in anger when someone tailgates you on the road, not knowing how to answer when your curious grandchild asks when you’re going to die. These are moments that cause you to pause, reflect and learn: the basis of a solid personal essay. In this introductory class, you’ll learn how to identify these pivotal moments, find the lessons therein, and write about them in a way that resonates with readers. 

Faculty Bio

Jane Ganahl is a writer, journalist, teacher, and co-founder of the Litquake festival. Her essays have appeared in five different anthologies, including one ("Single Woman of a Certain Age") she edited, and in Spirituality & Health, Huffingon Post, Bazaar, and Salon. 

This is an In-Person Workshop

• Classes meet in person at the Golden Bear Center, Suite 300 (3rd floor), at 1995 University Ave., Berkeley
• Limited to 18 members
• You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Wednesday, Sept. 17, and ends on Wednesday, Oct. 22
• Classes meet for 6 weeks, 2 hours per session (1-3 PM)
• All course materials will remain available to view and enjoy in Member Dashboards through Dec. 31

Member Praise for Jane Ganahl

Jane showed amazing knowledge and encouragement. She created an amazing space to learn and write.

Jane is wonderful and exceedingly patient and encouraging across all levels of student experience. She is a rare teacher.