LA Is the New L.A.

New Orleans is well on its way to becoming the next Los Angeles now that we have our own fashion week and dozens of movies filming throughout the year. To keep with the trend of “going L.A.,” I've compiled a few recommendations to help prepare you for the opportunities that this transition may present.

Take up writing
The New Orleans Public Library provides several amazing workshops throughout the year and the best part is that they're free! A memoir-writing workshop is being presented on April 9 at 2 p.m. at the Latter Branch, which is located at 5120 St. Charles Ave.

Become a 'master'
If you think you're ready for a master writing class, the New Orleans Public Library also is co-sponsoring the Bayou Soul Writers and Reader's Conference June 30-July 1. Registration for fiction and screenwriting master classes is $100 with a discounted rate of $50 for college students. You can even enter the Young Writer's Challenge for a chance to win a book deal and a trip to New York City!

Show off your skills
Compete in the Fame! Fortune! Fuzzies! video public service announcement contest and help raise awareness about violence against women. Read the rules for details on video format and length restrictions. Deadline for submissions is April 4.

Get fit
Regardless of whether you are interested in being on camera or behind the camera, you'll need your strength to work long hours. Now that the inaugural NOLA Fashion Week is behind us, keep in mind that future opportunities to stomp the catwalk are ahead for those who have “the look.”

If you don't like to work out alone, create a team and join Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, the international men's march to stop rape, sexual assault and gender violence. The walk takes place on April 7 on the uptown campus and the deadline to register is Wednesday (March 30).

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