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Holyoke Community College

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Arts, Music, Photography & Expression

in Personal Enrichment

Getting to Know Your Sewing Machine with Andrea Zax HOME 025.51, CRN 16850

$39
Calendar Mar 24, 2026 at 5 pm
In this one shot class Andrea will be a resource for students to help you understand how to use your sewing machines. Beginners will leave confident of how to thread their own machine, wind a bobbin and sew a simple drawstring bag. The first half of the class will feature one on one interaction with students to make sure they can thread and wind a bobbin. Following the threading can be challenging at first. As students become more familiar with the threading they will move on to some stitching of straight lines to get better control of the speed and how the fabric and machine work together. Fabric and drawstrings will be provided. Students will also learn how to make a drawstring bag with step by step instruction. If time permits, we may also explore zig zag stitches, hem stitch and zipper foot. Sign up for this interactive beginner’s class now!
Full Course

Write a Riveting Mystery, Suspense, or Crime Story EXPR 074.51, CRN 17119

$35
Calendar Mar 24, 2026 at 5 pm

Become a mystery writer for fun or profit! You will discover the different sub genres and three act story structure of mystery writing and create an intriguing cast of characters. Learn how to research and pick your setting, make sure your opening grabs readers’ attention, use “red herrings” to misdirect your readers and create suspense until you’re ready for the final reveal. Publishing options will also be discussed. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class

The Fine Art of Drawing ARTS 071.51, CRN 16989
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The Fine Art of Drawing ARTS 071.51, CRN 16989

$189
Calendar Mar 24, 2026 at 6:15 pm
Are you ready to bring your drawing skills to the next level? Drawing is such a versatile medium. We will move into finished drawing techniques. Explore creating bold, graphic drawings one week and subtle grayscale drawings the next and even using patterns (like zen tangle) to embolden black and white pictures. We will be exploring shading techniques, light and shadow and how to capture detail without losing form. We will be using pencils, water soluble graphite, cont crayons, scratch board and pen and ink. All levels welcome Materials NOT included but typically cost $25-$75. The list of materials will be emailed to students after registration. Instructor Melissa Pandina.

How to Outline and Write an Irresistible Romance EXPR 075.51, CRN 17120

$35
Calendar Mar 24, 2026 at 7 pm

Romance is the #1 selling fiction genre. Whether you're a new or experienced writer, this comprehensive session will help you sharpen your skills with practical step by step advice. You will discover the different romance sub genres and understand the proven romance formula. You will also learn to create a unique setting, introduce your protagonist (lead character), percolate friction, and write relatable dialogue as well as intimate scenes. Publishing options will also be discussed. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class

Writing Personal Essays That Matter EXPR 076.51, CRN 17121

$35
Calendar Mar 25, 2026 at 5 pm

Ready to transform your life stories into powerful essays? You’ll uncover how to dig deep into your memories, craft compelling narratives, and write with raw honesty and unforgettable voice. Whether you’re capturing life changing moments or finding meaning in everyday experiences, you’ll learn how to create personal essays that truly resonate. Plus, get insider tips on where to submit your work—from top literary magazines to popular online platforms—so your stories reach readers eager to connect. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class.

Writing (and Selling!) Flash Fiction: Say More With Fewer Words EXPR 077.51, CRN 17123

$35
Calendar Mar 26, 2026 at 5 pm

Master the art of telling unforgettable stories—in less than 1,000 words. This fast paced class dives into the thrilling challenges of flash fiction, teaching you how to build vivid characters, control pacing, and deliver powerful emotional punches with precision and economy. You’ll practice tight, impactful writing techniques—and get insider tips on where to sell your flash fiction to start building your publishing credits and income. Ready to make every word count? This is your storytelling power boost. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class

Beginner’s Guide to Using FREE ChatGPT (AI) for Writers EXPR 078.51, CRN 17124

$35
Calendar Mar 26, 2026 at 7 pm

ChatGPT (AI) is here to stay and is the future for writers and content creators. Don’t be left behind! No prior AI experience required. Do you want to learn how to incorporate the power of cutting edge technology to gain ideas and inspiration, write web content, articles, and even novels or scripts? In this beginner friendly course, you’ll learn how to register for a FREE ChatGPT account, input effective writing prompts to avoid nonsense responses, build creative content, from stories to marketing copy, determine its capabilities and limitations & understand ethical/legal considerations using ChatGPT There’s no doubt ChatGPT and similar AI systems will force the job market to evolve. It’s crucial for everyone to adapt, learn new skills, and be open to working in collaboration with AI, so start building your expertise in the world of ChatGPT now! The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class.

Writing Short Stories: A Beginner’s Guide EXPR 079.51, CRN 17125

$35
Calendar Mar 27, 2026 at 5 pm

Writing short stories (1,000–30,000 words) helps you discover your writing voice and how to convey your ideas. You’ll learn how to bring your story to life with an engaging plot, as well as character development, action, and dialogue. You’ll also learn the technical parts of crafting a short story, including structure, important character moments, and progression in the story. You’ll also know what to do with your short story once completed, including editing, proofing, and publishing options. The instructor LeeAnne Krusemark is a former journalist, current author and editor, and a nationwide Professor of Publishing at higher learning institutions, including Harvard Adult Education. Informative handouts for future use are included in class fee. Class is delivered via Zoom and a link will be shared the day before the class.





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