Barrie Llewelyn is a freelance writer and teaches English and Creative Writing at USW.  She is a member of USW's English Research Group.

Describe what you do
I introduce writers to strategies which will enable them to tell stories in a variety of ways, and facilitate workshops so that they get the feedback they need to engage an audience.

What do you enjoy about it?
I’ve always been a writer and I’m lucky that I get to combine my passion with my profession.

Best thing about it?
Every story, poem and script is unique. I am always surprised. There are so many proud moments too. It happens whenever a student starts calling themselves a writer.

What to read before class...
The book I recommend everyone reads is Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott. Anne Lamott gives real advice to aspiring writers.  This is not a how to write book, there are plenty of those – this is a book about how to be a writer.  Lamott gets personal too, she talks about her own writing and life experiences, the challenges  and yes, failures,  as well as the successes. 
 
Words of advice
My advice to people considering this course is to read, not only the genres and writers you enjoy but outside of your comfort zone.  Write every day, even if it’s only in a journal.