By Jazmira Guzman, Nova Southeastern University

At Nova Southeastern University, students in the Feature Writing course aren’t just learning how to write compelling stories, we’re living them. When I signed up for the course, I thought I was just going to learn how to write better stories. What I didn’t expect was to become a published writer before the semester even ended.

This course, taught with a strong emphasis on real-world application, does more than teach the structure of a feature story. It challenges us as students to go into the community, find stories that matter, and write them in a way that engages readers. 

The best part?

Our work doesn’t just lay on our hard drives or in the professor’s inbox- it turns our classroom into a professional newsroom thanks to a unique partnership with OutClique magazine.

One of my first assignments was previewing an upcoming comedy show, #IMOMSOHARD, featuring the hilarious mom-duo Kirstin Hensley and Jen Smedley. I researched their past work and interviewed them to put together a piece that not only highlighted the show’s appeal but also reflected the energy and personality of the comedians themselves. 

After writing the article less than 24 hours after my interview had concluded, the article was edited and published by OutClique. Seeing my byline on their website was a milestone moment for me- it made everything feel real. 

Another highlight was writing a feature on the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens in Fort Lauderdale. I had the opportunity to interview the CEO, Patrick Shavloske, and was immersed with all of the history of the Bonnet House. This story allowed me to combine history, culture, and travel writing into one piece, and once again, it was sent out to be published. 

I had two real publications under my belt, and the semester wasn’t even over yet. 

As a student who has a sports management major and a journalism minor, this course really pushed me out of my comfort zone and closer to the kind of career I want to pursue in media.

Feature Writing at NSU isn’t just a class. It’s a launching pad. It doesn’t just teach us how to write features. It helps us become features ourselves: bright, polished, and ready for the spotlight. It gave me the skills, the determination, and the confidence to believe that I can thrive as a journalist. 

Now, I’m not just dreaming of being a published writer—I am one.