Student Case Studies
and Project Examples

Get inspired with student projects and other examples of how to feature true-life stories. These include short vignettes, picture books, videos, full books, and building histories. 

Short videos & PDFs about student projects

Student examples, including Kerry's ancestor book. She "threaded the needle" on some family sensitivities.

Eva's video for a local pioneer museum. "With Rhonda's help, I learned to push the boundaries of what I thought I could do." 

Rob wrote a bestselling memoir that touched people's hearts because he "got up every morning and wrote before work." Rhonda coached him throughout.

Anne's ancestor booklets have brought her family together. See how she created these affordable booklets and some serendipity that has happened along the way.

Patrick Allen Butler wrote and published his debut memoir, Star Bat in Belize. In this candid interview he says, "Writing gave me an identity."  On vulerability humor, and what saved his life. 

Rhonda Lauritzen explains how watching clients and students change through the process of writing led to a belief that when you tell your story, it changes the ending.

Anne Lynch case study PDF transcript
Download from Dropbox by clicking the photo above

Patrick Allen Butler case study PDF
Download from Dropbox by clicking the photo above

Elesa case study PDF. Download from Drobpox by clicking the photo above.

7 lessons from one of Rhonda Lauritzen's first building histories. Despite being a novice, the story withstood time.

Watch the original video, a history of the Ephraim Relief Society Granary. The script is now being used in a professional production for the Smithsonian's Museum on Main Street program

Enjoy this video from Rachel Trotter, one of our main instructors. In it, she shares some of her favorite client projects and why she loves working with students. 

What students say about our classes

“I never realized how important writing is to me...I feel blessed to have found your class! Thank you for giving me the tools, and now the confidence, to take the words from my head and place them on paper. You are a fabulous teacher.”
Denise, U.S.A. 
“I thoroughly enjoyed the 'Life Story' class. The storyboard was marvelous and extremely helpful.”
Bryan, U.S.A.
“I had a terrific time in your class. It has provided a necessary means of accountability. I felt inclined to write some life stories but just wasn't applying the chair glue to do it.”
Valarie, U.S.A.
"Rhonda, Thank you so much for the inspiration, education and encouragement you have so generously given through the weekly course. I feel very lucky to have found you."    
Andrew, Australia
“I have loved your classes. They have changed my life. I now feel inspired to share with others.” "
VerDene, U.S.A. 
This class was well done! I’m not being hyperbolic by saying you are a remarkable teacher, leader and guide for this work.
Patrick, U.S.A.
"You are an answer to prayer and are giving me lots of ideas."
Mary, U.K. 
“Your class was a delightful learning experience. It was nice to realize that a few well-told stories of the most impactful lessons of your life are enough to pass on to posterity. Thanks again for your inspiration.”
Nina, U.S.A.
"I loved this class and I am so excited. I can see this work as a way to bring together all my interests & everything that I love—family, other people & cultures, writing, photography - everything. Also, I love the energy you bring to your work— you bring so much light and enthusiasm!"
Lynette, Philippines
"I really enjoyed your class and feel like I was set to go on a journey. I have to confess that I was not sold on the storyboard idea at the beginning of the class, but as I have studied it and learned a bit more, I can see and recognize it not only in books and movies but in real life. Very interesting!"
Santiago, U.S.A. 
"Using what you taught us, I posted photos and short stories about my husband who died thirty years ago. I transferred his voice from cassette to flash drive. I uploaded his voice to FamilySearch. I am amazed at the reticent relatives and friends that appreciate these stories! The process showed me all I've lived through already. I can do this, too. Thank you"
Chris, U.S.A.
“Thank you for teaching this class. It is making my life better and giving me the encouragement I need to finish my book.”
Christina, U.S.A.
“Thank you for teaching this class. It is making my life better and giving me the encouragement I need to finish my book.”
Stephanie, U.S.A.
"Thank you! Best class I attended at RootsTech."
Craig, U.S.A.
I finished the course “How to Write a Memoir…” this morning!!! It was SO WONDERFUL! (The course AND the feeling of finishing.) I will be reviewing the course again and again to make sure it all “sticks.” My review is a glowing one and well deserved. 
Nancy, U.S.A.
“I started searching for someone who could teach me to write with passion and something more powerful. Then Google led me to Rhonda's website and she has been that person for me. I did my research, read a lot of helpful information on her website, and I watched the previews.”   
Bruce, Australia
"Thank you, you helped me realize I am the hero in my own story." 
Kelly, U.S.A.
"I really appreciate the free writing time…Some great things just fall into my lap…chills have gone down my spine every time I find out more about my grandmother from this newfound relative! Thanks for this time …this hour is giving me a set time to write! Thanks!"
Bo Gay, U.S.A.

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