Before starting the UCLA MFA in Screenwriting program in 2011, I already knew that Tim Albaugh’s class was one of the first I would take. His reputation proceeded him, as he was known for his knowledge of structure, understanding of what makes a marketable story, and because of his long legacy of developing successful writers in this highly competitive industry. Just one day in Tim’s class confirmed to me that he would not disappoint. Early on, he recognized my talent when I was new and filled with insecurity. He saw something in me that gave me the confidence to believe in my voice and intuition. His elevated taste and sense of story led to a script that won me awards and attention from Hollywood reps and executives, while also building my brand of comedic writing. In summary, Tim is a legend in the screenwriting space because of his amazing work with students. Any student would be lucky to be under his tutelage, and would become a much better writer because of it.
Felischa Marye, Creator, EP/Showrunner, Bigger on BET+
I can’t possibly recommend Tim and Linda highly enough! All screenwriters should learn from them!
Brian Fagan, Director at UCLA Professional Programs at TFT
Linda was an invaluable instructor and mentor and played a major role in my growth as a writer. If you ever have a chance to work with her you should. Your scripts will thank you.
Susan Hurwitz Arneson, Co-Executive Producer The Tick & Preacher
Tim helps you build your story from the ground up –character work, outlines — so you can solve your story problems early on. Once my script was ready, Tim helped me attach a producer and get it set up at a studio.
Noushin Jahanian, Screenwriter, The Start Up (eOne)
Linda Voorhees is the best friend a nascent writer or teacher could have. She is equal parts psychiatrist, cheerleader, and den mother. Her optimism terrifies me.
Nick Griffin, writer of Matchstick Men
Linda’s script guidance was invaluable, and I owe much of my growth as a writer to Linda. The best feature film I’ve written so far was in her class at UCLA (it was a script that won UCLA Screenwriters Showcase and helped me land a meeting at CAA). She has a remarkable sense of what makes a story work and an ability to see what will make your writing shine. If you’re a comedy writer, even better, because she has a great comedic sensibility and joke suggestions. Also, she pulls no punches in letting you know her true thoughts about your story ideas and script pages, which is very helpful when you’re trying to figure out what to cut. I’d describe Linda as a “writer whisperer,” helping you to pull the best out of yourself. Linda makes writing fun, which is surprisingly rare for teachers. She’s also hilarious and being around her is an absolute joy, so if you’re lucky enough to have the opportunity to write with Linda, DO it!
Linda Voorhees is a story master. I had a movie idea I loved, that I’d tried and failed multiple times to outline. She asked questions, made suggestions, and presto, the cinematic story I wanted appeared. She then coached me steadily into completing a first draft. She gave cogent and constructive notes on it. As a result of her vast knowledge and experience with story and her insistence on clear, solid writing, I have a draft that’s out there getting read. Even better, I feel more confident in my own skills and judgment, and ready to tackle the next idea that tries to give me any lip. I’ll just give it the Voorhees treatment and it’ll behave itself
Gina DeAngelis, Writer
Linda and Tim each bring a formidable amount of wisdom and laser-focused insight to each writer they work with. You can’t get what they offer from a book.
Pat Verducci, Screenwriter, Director, and Story Consultant
The only thing that could be better than being taught screenwriting by Linda Voorhees and Tim Albaugh would be to be taught screenwriting by Linda Voorhees and Tim Albaugh. They are masters in the craft of storytelling and can make you a better screenwriter in every way possible.
Dominic Abeyta, Writer
Linda is an amazing screenwriting workshop instructor. I’ve learned so much in her class from plot structure to story development and dialogue. She is dialed in to every student’s script and attentive to critical story developments and opportunities. She gives great constructive feedback, making sure that the work that comes out of her class is above and beyond industry standard. It doesn’t hurt that she is also hilarious and brings a vibrant energy to any room she is in.
Carly Chevalier, Writer
Two of the best screenwriting teachers in the world!
Lonnie Senstock, Writer
Linda flat-out pointed me in the direction of family-adventure-fun when I pitched a period piece. Once I changed directions I had a blast presenting pages and letting her critique, cajole and compliment these pages and characters. I’m anxious to keep going! Linda’s a superior teacher.
Alva Moore, PreWGA Writer
Definitely recommend taking this program if you are a writer!! Wherever you are in your writing, the valuable knowledge and training you get with this program will push you to the next level!
Rebecca Blount, Writer
Linda’s insights connecting character and structure take you deeper into both. In scene work, she’s got a terrific ear for pacing and dialogue. Most of all, she both writes and leads with her heart which gives her an authentic connection in helping other writers elevate the emotional impact of their writing, whether to accentuate a moment or get a laugh.
Jennifer Edwards, Writer
I love this! Two of my favorite teachers in one great package!
Kellen Hertz, Writer
Prof. Vorrhees and Prof. Albaugh are masters of the screenwriting craft, and more importantly, the art of teaching. It is their unique qualification as experts which sets them apart from others in the field, evidenced by their screenwriting students’ professional track records, including my own. As a UCLA Screenwriting MFA candidate, I was fortunate to take many classes with both Linda and Tim, where I developed an understanding and deep appreciation for our singular form of storytelling. And it is with this education and encouragement that my indie feature film “Just Peck” (starring Academy Award winner Brie Larson) came to life, written, by no coincidence, in Prof. Albaugh’s UCLA screenwriting class. If you to truly learn the craft of screenwriting, if you want to succeed as a screenwriter, you want Linda and Tim to show you the way.
Marc Arneson, Writer
1) A combination of the best brains in the business. You can’t miss this one. 2) Linda doesn’t just teach but walks the path guiding you at every step 3) Linda’s understanding of storytelling is so powerful it’s impossible to go wrong. Writing requires a certain mindset, Linda instills that mindset in you and Tim’s mastery of the craft is impeccable.
Smita Mukherjee, Writer
I’ve had development execs quote Tim Albaugh in meetings. ProPath is the real deal.
Linda Vorhees tore my prior convictions about the craft down and built them again from the ground up. Her feedback is consistently honest, intuitive, and insightful, and her years of experience in writing and teaching ensure that she always seems to know the perfect fix for that scene you’re struggling with. If you want personable, no-holds-barred insight that will push you to become a better writer, Linda Vorhees is your answer. Tim Albaugh blew me away as a lecture instructor. His engaging and involved demeanor encouraged participation and questioning. His advice and wisdom, on anything from character to breaking into the industry, is invaluable and inspiring. Linda and Tim made me realize that screenwriting was more than just a pipe dream – it’s an industry and a craft that can be taught, learned, and made into a career.
Longtime professional writers and teachers, Linda and Tim combine years of experience and expertise in a formidable one-two instructional punch. They’ve nurtured numerous students who have gone on to screen and television writing careers thanks to their skillful instruction, knowledge of the craft and business, and constructive support. I’m envious of those fortunate enough to work with them.
Jim Strain, Writer
It was clear from the moment of engagement, that Tim’s authentic mission was my success. He encourages and critiques with knowledge, grace and warmth. I have found a true mentor, partner and champion of my work.
Tim has the remarkable ability to turn almost any idea into a well-written, well-structured script that demands attention. When you develop a screenplay or pilot with Tim, you’ll always come away with a professional piece of work that’s ready to be seen by producers, managers, agents and production companies. Early on, Tim was also able to help me attach a producer to one of my spec scripts and secure a manager. I’ve now worked with Tim for many years and many scripts, and it’s always a fun and fecund journey. I suppose you could write a script without Tim Albaugh, but I have no idea why you would!