Journalism is tough to break into for anyone, particularly if you can't afford to work for less than minimum wage. Freelancing requires constantly pitching, not taking rejection personally, and ingratiating yourself to editors, who already have a stable of staff writers and hungry former colleagues. No matter how talented you are, it's a low paying racket, but a truly gratifying one when you see your name in print or get to work with a fantastic editor or write about an enticing subject. It's why Sue Shapiro's classes are so popular and such a rare opportunity, as she generously shares contacts, offers advice how to best connect, and remains loyal to her students.

When not nurturing other writers as a professor at NYU, Shapiro is a prolific writer. She regularly contributes to The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and every major publication in between, and her novels and memoirs are accessible, funny, pithy and fun rides.

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