From my first days in her Great American Short Story Workshop, I was impressed by how well-structured Alexandra's classes are.  She manages to fit an enormous amount into each class.  She provides doses of theory, outside reading (with a focus on "reading like a writer"), and traditional workshop feedback.  This combination provides writers of all levels with a solid foundation, while also sparking discussion and inspiring future work.  Students emerge from the semester with a firmer, deeper understanding of writing.

Along with Alexandra's excellent credentials, it is her dual-role as both writer and editor that makes her such a good teacher.  Clearly she knows her subject.  She has seen it from all sides, and she can give good, unbiased advice as a result…. Alexandra can provide what each individual student needs at that particular moment.

Although I am not taking a class with Alexandra at the moment, she remains a touchstone for me in the New York writing community.  She has created a welcoming environment for the aspiring writers among her past students, and she provides us with the support and encouragement that we need in this challenging business. 

-Lydia Unfried