It's the self discovery that was the biggest, and most uncomfortable, surprise for me. Being a bit apprehensive of that means you're paying attention and have strong instincts about what you're getting into :-) I still get blind-sided by it and shaken up when digging into a character and find my own secrets, fears, habits, and (the worst) self-defeating mindsets. The good news is the shock doesn't last long and is just enough to blow an opening for you to slip under the skin of the character. I absolutely agree, Scott, that online learning is the future, and it's right here, right now. There are so many different services firing up to meet this need that are much more comprehensive and flexible than a traditional classroom. Opportunities and options are being thrown open in all areas and from every corner. I've been able to take classes from Duke University and other sources I'd never be able to physically visit and camp out for any length of time. It's pretty darned exciting.

[...] http://gointothestory.blcklst.com/2013/07/dispatch-from-the-quest-sandy-leviton.html [...]

[...] known as the awesomest producing team ever, you guys will be the first to know! Anyway, here is Sandy’s post. I really like what she has to say about starting a new project, and being identified as a writer [...]