What are Biology Writes retreats like?

They are half- or full-day events, on campus (in the beautiful Rubenstein Library on west campus), where you dedicate time for your writing and work in a community of fellow writers.

Sample schedule:

8:30 – 9AM:  Coffee, tea, and pastries

9:00 – 9:10:   Welcome and setting intentions

9:10 – noon: Designated writing time

Noon: Lunch at The Commons

1PM – 4PM: Designated writing time (snacks provided, gluten-free/dairy-free options available)

1PM – 4PM: Optional one-on-one consultations and/or feedback on your writing

 


What to bring

  • Bring materials related to a specific writing project—this could include a working draft, an outline, a call for proposals, a grant application, or even some writing ideas you’re trying to choose from for this workshop. Bring whatever you need to jump start your writing.
  • A charged laptop and power cord.
  • A sweater or light jacket for comfort in the air-conditioned rooms and walking/comfortable shoes if you would like to take a walking break or participate in the optional “walk and talk” consultations
  • Water bottle and coffee cup

What is involved in a 10-Day Writing Challenge?

The details:

  • Schedule 2-weeks for the challenge
  • Recruit friends, members of your lab, and co-authors to join you in the challenge
  • Block off time on your calendar for the challenge and protect that time
  • Each day of the challenge, you will get a reminder to log your progress (in a shared Google doc) and celebrate your writing streak

Spring 2024 dates:  Feb 26-March 8, 2024.  Members of the Duke Biology Department can sign up for the challenge here.