We recently sat down with HMSS writing instructor Cliff Sweeney where we talked about why he became a writer, the three characteristics of a successful Heights Middle School Shorts camper, and more:
1. How did you decide to be a writer?
I realized at a young age that life was both amazing and rough at different times. People are dealing with so much that 24 hours can go by in a blink without cherishing a day. I like writing stories, lyrics, and plays to put out into the world for people to relate to, which allows for one to slow down and appreciate life’s ups and downs.
2. What would you say are the three most important characteristics of a successful Heights Middle School Shorts camper?
Dedication to their crafts and willingness to do the little things to get better every day. The willingness to collaborate – the ability to listen to others’ ideas and opinions as well as accept criticism. And a willingness to express themselves, to give feedback – if it made you laugh we’re going to laugh (and speak about it) If it made you cry we’re going to cry. Use your emotions and senses to tell your story.
3. How do you think the pandemic will affect the learning experience for the students?
The pandemic will make them better because students will be able to see the world through a couple of different lenses – the tech world and the outside world – and be able to merge the two for long-term artistic success.
4. How can you ensure equity and inclusion in the HMSS camp?
I teach through the mindset of having been where you’ve been: I am who you are and I will allow for an environment where students can feel free to include that history in classroom discussions as well as their art. Truth through dialogue makes great stories and also heals through relatability.
5. What excites you the most about teaching at HMSS?
Art and Expression are the purest form of life you can have. In everything we do as humans there’s an element of creativity. An architect is an artist that can see the building before it’s built. A doctor sees the beauty in knowing that there’s a remedy for what their patient’s illness may be. Life and decisions are going on every day and those decisions definitely affect our stories we’ll tell tomorrow.