How writing & classroom teaching led to Write Well Brooklyn
One night in 2014, a conversation popped back into my head somewhat out of the blue.
Just before I'd graduated with my MFA five years prior, my graduate thesis advisor, the writer Irina Reyn, pulled me aside. “I’ve known a lot of talented writers who get their MFA,” she said, “but never make time to write. You have to make the time. You have to really fight for it.”
When this memory resurfaced, I was living in Austin, Texas, teaching middle and high school classes (from AP and IB literature to creative writing) at a small college prep school. I loved working with students, but found myself frustrated with other aspects of the job: low pay, what I saw as a highly problematic view of women in the field of education, and the unsustainable demand on my time and energy. (Classroom teachers out there: I am utterly in awe of your boundless energy and devotion.)
Most of all, I simply struggled to find the time to write—the very thing that had brought me to teaching in the first place.
Four years in, I was at a crossroads. I wanted to carve my own path as I worked with young people, earned a comfortable living, and followed my dream of writing—but I wasn’t sure how to do it all.
With Irina’s words ringing in my ears, I got bold. I left teaching, and started my own tutoring business—then called Write Well Austin.
There were many missteps along the way—from initially saying yes to every gig (apologies to the student years ago who turned to me for help on her algebra homework!) to running a writing treat in Hawaii for adults (successfully so—but I nearly lost my marbles in making it happen).
In March of 2020, the challenges took a steep turn. Not only was there a global pandemic, but at the start of it, I faced an unexpected and life-threatening health crisis. I not only survived, but also kept up with my tutoring business and went on to get a publishing deal for my novel, The Crocodile Bride, that same year.
Eventually, healthy once more and with a book deal under my belt, I decided to pursue another major dream: moving to New York City.
In 2021, Write Well Austin became Write Well Brooklyn (WWB)—and I revised my approach to teaching:
✏️ I designed a series of 1-1 writing programs that nurture student skills and confidence in more intentional, long-lasting ways than standard academic tutoring.
✏️ I started a free weekly Creativity Club of 9-13 year olds who meet online from all over the United States—including New York, Colorado, California, Texas, and Georgia.
✏️ I began emphasizing NYC high school admissions essay support along with college application essays—and I love the deep engagement, reflection, voice, and revision these essays require students to practice.
✏️ I dropped the title "writing tutor"—which connotes a dry, pedantic experience for students—and instead embrace "writing coach.” As a coach, I teach using humor, guidance, and connection.
✏️ I partnered with the Parents League of New York (PLNY), where I offer frequent talks and contribute guest essays.
I love the work I do as a writing coach. I get to share not only my knowledge of writing skills, but also the “soft skills” that make my practice unique: my compassion, presence, and joyful connection with young people.
And when I’m not coaching young people, I’m taking my professor’s advice: I’m making the time to write.
You can learn more about my writing (including other works and press) and other creative pursuits over at www.heyash.org—and check out more of Write Well Brooklyn’s unique 1-1 writing coaching programs at the button below.