Academic writing retreats

Support your faculty with a facilitated writing retreat, designed to empower scholars to progress toward their writing goals while engaging with the research of their peers. These retreats create a temporary community, structured around goal setting, report backs, personal writing time, and peer review. Participants can step out of their roles as teachers and administrators and reconnect with their inner writers.

The challenge of writing amidst daily realities

In the scholarly world, "publish or perish" is the mantra, yet the demands of academic life often hinder consistent writing progress. The expectation for individuals to carve out time for writing amidst other commitments often results in fragmented efforts. While there are disciplined writers who dedicate each morning to their craft, they remain the exception rather than the rule.

Creating space for productivity and support

These retreats offer respite from the daily grind, creating an environment conducive to productive writing within a framework of collegial support. Participants, whether working individually or in small groups, benefit from at least 5 hours of daily writing time, supplemented by peer reviews. Additionally, we explore tools and techniques to help writers develop and articulate their ideas, and set up a sustainable writing practice at home.

Invest in faculty development and collaboration

For faculty leaders, these retreats present an effective investment in staff development, fostering relationships among team members while addressing the ever-present publishing demands. By providing a structured yet energising environment, retreats empower scholars to enhance their writing practices and build lasting connections with their colleagues.

“It was lovely to be in community with people I consider peers and friends, I find their feedback on my work really generative and valuable, and enjoy their company! Faith was an incredibly competent facilitator that was very attentive to each of our personalities and needs. She responded really well to unforeseen circumstances, and still went above and beyond to help us achieve our goals, even when those goals fluctuated.”

Rianna Walcott, Postdoctoral Associate in the Black Communication and Technology Lab in the Department of Communication at the University of Maryland.