georgetown creative writing camp

Application is closed

Transform your dreams, ideas, and stories into organized, compelling, creative written works with lectures by renowned literary figures from around the D.C. area, dynamic courses with Georgetown graduate student instructors, and insightful, productive feedback from your peers.

This combination of workshops and tutorials will help you generate and polish a wealth of new poems, stories, and personal essays, and allow you to experiment with innovative forms in the field of creative writing. The Academy will also focus on the publishing and professionalization aspects of the industry, exploring what markets are available for your writing, what jobs are available to creative writers, funding opportunities for your work, undergraduate and graduate programs in writing, and how to get published. In addition, this week-long program will feature excursions to sites around Washington, D.C., an exercise in ekphrastic writing at the National Gallery of Art, and the chance to read your work aloud at Busboys and Poets, a famous D.C. literary hub. Students who enroll in the program will also have their writing featured in Three Stars, the Creative Writing Academy’s annual student literary magazine. How You'll Benefit: 1 - Participate in writing workshops; 2 - Awaken your powers of observation, imagination, and description; 3 - Learn concrete elements of the craft of writing in daily workshops; 4 - Attend readings from published authors, who will lead interactive classes and conduct group discussions; 5 - Work with Georgetown's expert creative writing faculty to bring out your most creative ideas; 6 - Read excerpts from award-winning works and use them to develop your own original works; 7 - Visit local monuments, world-renowned theaters, museums, and literary organizations; 8 - Take part in peer critiques and learn how to revise and refine your writing; 9 - Have your writing featured in Three Stars, the Creative Writing Institute’s annual student literary magazine. Program Format & Subject Areas As a student in the Creative Writing Academy, you'll spend your day immersed in a blend of classroom lectures, field trips, hands-on activities, and group discussions. Throughout the week, you'll have the opportunity to explore the following subject areas: - Poetry - Fiction - Personal prose - Literary history - Technique (story structure, character development, theme, description, dialogue) - Finding good ideas and turning them into polished pieces - Using great literature for inspiration.

In-Person classes (residential housing available)

As a student in the Georgetown Summer Academy, you'll spend your day immersed in a blend of lectures, activities, and group discussions. At Georgetown, the summer experience expands far beyond the classroom walls. Our Summer High School Programs are designed to reflect the college experience, and as such, we offer our students optional activities to enjoy during their free time. Outside of class, you can choose from a wide range of daily activities to participate in, or opt for unstructured time where you can venture out and explore the city or stay in and catch up on your summer reading. Regardless of how you choose to spend your free time, we’ll always have a variety of planned activities to give you the freedom to make each day different—and tailored to fit your interests. Events & Activities While many of our activities and events are open to all Summer High School students, some of our offerings (such as our off-site trips) are only available to students participating in the two-, three-, and five-week programs. If you are in a two-, three-, or five-week program and have decided to commute daily to Georgetown, you’ll still have the same access to student life activities as residential students. Activities are subject to vary from year to year. Mini Courses Looking to get even more out of your Georgetown experience? Sign up for a Mini Course! Available to any interested high school students, no need to apply. Mini Courses are designed to give you a taste of Georgetown and a leg up as you prepare for college and beyond. SAT/ACT Mini Course This course will introduce you to test-taking techniques, time-management strategies, and critical reading methods that are central to mastering the SAT and ACT tests. You’ll complete a full-length diagnostic SAT or ACT test, after which you’ll receive an individualized, comprehensive analysis of your results. College Essay-Writing Mini Course This course will expose you to the organization, content, and grammar that make for successful college essays. You’ll have the opportunity to review sample essays, brainstorm ideas for topics, develop a comprehensive outline, and write a complete college personal statement essay.

Tell us your opinion about us

To apply to the Summer Programs for High School Students, you must meet the following criteria: 1 - Be a current or rising high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior during the academic year prior to your summer program. 2 - Show evidence of good academic standing, with at least a 2.0 GPA

Steps to Complete Your Application: 1 - 300- to 500-word personal statement. Write a 300- to 500-word personal statement describing why you want to attend the Summer High School Programs at Georgetown University. Your completed essay should be uploaded to your online application prior to submission. 2 - Completed School Official Reviewer Form. Provide the contact information of your current high school counselor (preferred), teacher, or principal who will be able to speak to your overall academic readiness for the program and can verify your current GPA. Upon submitting your application, your chosen point of contact will receive an automatic email request with instructions for completing the form. If you are an eligible homeschooled student applying to the Summer High School Programs, your School Official Reviewer Form may not come from a family member or paid tutor; the form must come from a teacher or another person who can speak to your academic abilities and capacity to thrive in a college environment. 3 - International Student Requirements: International students participating in the Academies and College Prep Program are not required to obtain a visa or submit TOEFL scores. 4 - Application fee (non-refundable): $50 (if submitted after January 31).

Hoya Summer High School Sessions are full, but our Pre-College Online Program is wide open. Study anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. Early Bird Deadline: January 31 For all applications submitted by this date, the app fee will be waived. Final Deadline: May 15 Applications will not be reviewed after this date.

Tuition & Fees Application fee (non-refundable): $50 Fee is waived for all applications received by the Early Bird Deadline: January 31 Tuition: Residential (includes housing and meals): $3,225 Commuter: $2,500 Health insurance fee (international students only): $40 Meal plan (optional): Determined by plan selected, purchased directly from Georgetown Dining.

Financial Aid

A limited number of scholarship awards are available to students who demonstrate financial need. Only students who have been admitted to our summer programs (College Credit Course or Non-Credit Academies) are eligible to apply. Scholarship awards are strictly for tuition and do not apply to other fees.

Useful Resources

Your subscribe request has successfully sent to the Georgetown

Ihre Anfrage wurde erfolgreich abgesendet an Georgetown

• [email protected]
• (650) 338-8226

Cupertino, CA

• Our Philosophy
• Our Results
• News, Media, and Press
• Common Application
• College Application Essay Editing
• Extracurricular Planning
• Academic Guidance
• Summer Programs
• Interview Preparation

Middle School

• Pre-High School Consultation
• Boarding School Admissions

College Admissions

• Academic and Extracurricular Profile Evaluation
• Senior Editor College Application Program
• Summer Program Applications
• Private Consulting Program
• Transfer Admissions
• UC Transfer Admissions
• Ivy League Transfer Admissions

Graduate Admissions

• Graduate School Admissions
• MBA Admissions

Private Tutoring

• SAT/ACT Tutoring
• AP Exam Tutoring
• Olympiad Training

Research Programs

• Science Research Program
• Humanities Competitions
• Passion Project Program
• Ad Hoc Consulting
• Athletic Recruitment
• National Universities Rankings
• Liberal Arts Colleges Rankings
• Public Schools Rankings

Acceptance Rates

• University Acceptance Rates
• Transfer Acceptance Rates
• Supplemental Essays
• College Admissions Data
• Chances Calculator
• GPA Calculator

National Universities

• College Acceptance Rates
• College Overall Acceptance Rates
• College Regular Acceptance Rates
• College Early Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Overall Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Regular Acceptance Rates
• Ivy League Early Acceptance Rates

Public Schools

• Public Schools Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Overall Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Regular Acceptance Rates
• Public Schools Early Acceptance Rates

Liberal Arts

• Liberal Arts Colleges Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Overall Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Regular Acceptance Rates
• Liberal Arts Colleges Early Acceptance Rates

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy: A Deep Dive

By Eric Eng

Every writer harbors a world within, waiting for the right catalyst to bring it to life. Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy promises to be that very spark, offering a transformative journey into the universe of words and narratives.

This article delves into the academy’s programs and activities, from enriching workshops to individualized guidance, showcasing how it stands as a beacon for budding literary talents. As you embark on this enlightening journey through the corridors of Georgetown’s literary legacy, discover the secrets to honing your craft and the doors it can open for your future.

Georgetown University’s Dedication to the Arts

Georgetown University , established in 1789, holds the distinction of being the nation’s first Catholic institution of higher learning. This esteemed university has a history rooted deeply in academic excellence, with an unwavering dedication to fostering spiritual growth and crafting leaders committed to public service.

Over the centuries, its mission has grown to encompass a broad spectrum of disciplines, with arts and sciences playing a pivotal role. Joseph Havens Richards, S.J., who served as the university’s president from 1888 to 1898, played a transformative role in this sphere. He was instrumental in establishing graduate courses in the arts and sciences, furthering the university’s commitment to creativity and artistic expression.

Moreover, the study of history at Georgetown captures the essence of human interactions across diverse dimensions, including artistic expression, highlighting the intrinsic value the institution places on the arts.

In essence, Georgetown University’s legacy is not only steeped in academic and spiritual excellence but also in its commitment to enriching the world through art and creative expression.

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy: An Overview

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy is a program designed to transform participants’ dreams, ideas, and stories into organized, compelling, creative written works. It is a part of Georgetown University’s Summer Pre-College Program. The duration of this program is one week, and the estimated cost is around $3,000, which includes tuition, room, and board.

At a time when every word and narrative shapes the world’s socio-cultural fabric, the Academy emerges as a sanctuary for those burning with the passion to tell stories, to craft verses, and to sculpt ideas with the sheer power of words.

But what truly sets it apart? It’s the academy’s undying commitment to nurturing original voices, fostering literary creativity, and cultivating an environment where every sentence penned holds the potential to make history.

For many, writing is an escape, a means to communicate, or a tool for change. At the Academy, it’s all that and more—it’s a way of life. Students here don’t just learn the techniques of writing; they immerse themselves in the world of letters, absorbing the nuances that make a piece timeless.

Why Creative Writing?

In today’s digital age, where information is exchanged at breakneck speeds and attention spans are continually shrinking, the art of creative writing has become more critical than ever. At a time when we’re inundated with data and bite-sized tidbits of content, creative writing stands as a testament to the timeless power of well-crafted narratives, evocative emotions, and profound thought.

Shaping Thought

Creative writing shapes thoughts. It offers a sanctuary for introspection and reflection in an otherwise noisy world. A well-penned piece can provide solace, provoke introspection, or spark inspiration, allowing readers to connect with their deeper selves and view the world from diverse perspectives.

Influencing Culture

Creative writing holds immense power in influencing culture. Stories, whether told through novels, short stories, or screenplays, have the power to challenge societal norms, raise pressing questions, or even reshape cultural values.

Think of iconic literature from the past or viral blog posts of the present; they resonate because they touch on universal themes, offering insights and reflections that transcend borders and generations.

Impacting Society

Lastly, the narratives crafted through creative writing significantly impact society. In the digital era, where stories can go viral overnight, a compelling narrative can raise awareness, drive change, and even shape public policy.

It offers a means to voice dissent, celebrate triumphs, or shine a light on neglected issues, all the while providing a platform for those whose voices might otherwise go unheard.

In conclusion, as we navigate the labyrinth of the digital age, creative writing emerges not just as an art form but as a beacon, guiding us, challenging us, and reminding us of our shared humanity. It underscores the fact that, even in an age of tweets and memes, words—when chosen carefully and crafted with passion—retain their profound power to move the world.

A Closer Look at Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy stands as a beacon for aspiring writers, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience that nurtures the talents of its students. Let’s delve into the heart of this renowned program, exploring its courses, faculty, and unique pedagogical approach.

Courses and Modules

At the heart of the Academy is a structured program that caters to various aspects of creative writing. Participants have the opportunity to partake in rigorous writing workshops, designed to hone their skills in observation, imagination, and description.

The academy’s schedule indicates an intensive academic programming that runs from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during weekdays, encompassing lectures and guest sessions. Students are provided a full-bodied experience, delving deep into both the theory and practice of writing.

Esteemed Faculty and Guest Lecturers

Georgetown University’s stellar reputation attracts some of the best minds in the literary world. These experts bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, ensuring students receive guidance from seasoned professionals in the field.

The author John James currently serves as the Academic Director. He’s known for his work The Milk Hours , which earned the Max Ritvo Poetry Prize . His poetry has graced esteemed publications, and he’s received support from institutions like the Academy of American Poets and Georgetown University’s Lannan Center for Poetics and Social Practice.

Blend of Traditional and Contemporary Techniques

The academy’s commitment to awakening powers of observation, imagination, and description hints at a curriculum deeply rooted in time-tested techniques of creative writing. However, in the age of digital communication and the evolving nature of literature, the program also incorporates contemporary methodologies.

This blend ensures that students are not only grounded in the foundations of the craft but are also equipped to navigate the ever-changing literary landscape of the 21st century.

In conclusion, Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy offers a dynamic and enriching environment for budding writers. By melding traditional methods with modern techniques, and under the tutelage of distinguished faculty, students are primed to excel in their literary endeavors, making meaningful contributions to the world of creative writing.

Extracurricular Opportunities for Students

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy is not just about traditional classroom learning; it stretches well beyond those boundaries. It offers a range of extracurricular activities designed to enrich students’ literary experiences:

• Writing Workshops: Central to the academy’s offering is a rich variety of writing workshops . These workshops are designed to help students generate and refine a multitude of poems, stories, and personal essays. Within these sessions, peer review and constructive feedback are invaluable, helping young writers cultivate their unique voice and style.
• Readings & Events: The academy provides multiple avenues for students to showcase their work, from readings to larger literary events. Participating in these activities not only builds confidence but also allows students to interact with a wider audience and receive feedback from diverse perspectives.
• Literary Magazines & Publications: The Academy offers platforms for students to publish their work. These magazines not only provide a space for students to share their creations but also to experience the editorial and publishing processes.

Overall, Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy is a holistic environment, fostering not just in-class learning but also a multitude of extracurricular opportunities. From workshops to readings, lectures by renowned professionals, and potential publication avenues, students are immersed in a vibrant literary culture that primes them for success in the world of writing.

Alumni Success Stories

The prestige of Georgetown’s Creative Writing Academy is not solely defined by its curriculum, but also by the illustrious careers its alumni have embarked upon. These individuals, having honed their skills at the academy, have left an indelible mark in the literary realm.

Diverse Career Paths

The Creative Writing Academy at Georgetown has always prided itself on the holistic education it provides its students. Its alumni reflect this, with many having ventured into diverse fields such as academia, secondary education, journalism, PR, publishing, and even technology startups. Their versatility and adaptability are a testament to the robust training they received.

Contributions to the Literary World

The transformative experience at the academy, where students convert their dreams and ideas into compelling written works, has paved the way for many to enter the literary world. Some have become renowned authors, while others have taken up roles as critics, editors, and literary consultants.

The lectures they attended, delivered by renowned literary figures from the D.C. area, have undoubtedly shaped their perspective and approach to literature.

Bridging Traditional and Contemporary

The academy’s blend of traditional and modern teaching methods ensures that its students are well-versed in classical literature while being adept at navigating the contemporary literary landscape. This balance is evident in the works of many alumni, who seamlessly integrate classical motifs with contemporary themes.

It’s evident that the Creative Writing Academy at Georgetown has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many in the literary field. Their training at the academy has not only equipped them with the necessary skills but also instilled a passion for literature that remains undiminished as they forge ahead in their respective careers.

How the Writing Academy Can Impact Your College Success

Students who undergo training under Georgetown’s Creative Writing Academy gain a competitive edge in college. This not only reflects in their college applications but also reverberates throughout their academic journeys and beyond.

Holistic Skill Development

Beyond the art of writing, the academy emphasizes holistic growth. Through varied workshops and interactions with literary figures, students develop analytical thinking, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to appreciate different perspectives. Such skills make them valuable contributors in classroom discussions and group projects.

Exceptional Portfolio Creation

With guidance from Georgetown instructors, students craft compelling stories, essays, and poems that can be included in their college applications. A well-rounded writing portfolio provides tangible evidence of a student’s literary prowess and can be a determining factor in college admissions.

Enhanced Articulation

One of the hidden benefits of a rigorous writing regimen is the ability to articulate thoughts clearly. Whether penning down college essays or presenting in front of peers, the clarity and persuasiveness in communication that academy students exhibit often set them apart.

Diverse Exposure

The blend of workshops, lectures, and tutorials, spearheaded by literary figures from the D.C. area, gives students an expansive worldview. Exposure to varied literary traditions and styles not only enriches their writing but also showcases their versatility in college applications and interviews.

Foundation for Advanced Studies

Many college courses require intensive reading and writing. The rigorous training at the academy ensures that students are well-prepared for such challenges, making their transition into higher education smoother.

In essence, Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy equips students with much more than just writing skills. It shapes them into thoughtful, articulate, and versatile individuals—qualities that resonate in college applications and are treasured throughout academic and professional pursuits.

Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy Application Process

The following are important details that you need to remember when applying for the program.

Duration of Courses

The program typically runs from July to August.

Eligibility Criteria

The academy welcomes all high school students, provided they have an excellent academic standing. It’s also open to international students.

Application Requirements

• Personal Statement: Applicants are required to submit a 300- to 500-word personal statement describing their motivation to attend the academy.
• Participation: Enrollees will engage in writing workshops and activities to hone their observational, imaginative, and descriptive skills, while also studying the tangible elements of creative writing.

For a comprehensive understanding or additional details, like deadlines, potential applicants should consult the academy’s official webpage or directly contact their administrative office.

Preparing for Admission

Understand what the academy values.

• Holistic Review: Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy evaluates applicants based on a variety of criteria. Think of your application as a portfolio showcasing diverse facets of your identity and skills.
• Personal Investment: Your essays and personal statements should delve deep into who you are and why you’re passionate about creative writing. Ensure they reflect different dimensions of your character and aspirations.

Steps to an Effective Application

• Meet Deadlines: Punctuality is pivotal. Keep track of all important dates to ensure timely submission.
• Tackle the Essay Head-On: Don’t be deterred by complex essay prompts. Address them with authenticity, clarity, and depth.

Crafting an Impactful Writing Portfolio

• Diverse Pieces: Your portfolio should be a tapestry of various genres and styles, reflecting your versatility and range.
• Show Growth: Include earlier works and more recent ones to demonstrate your evolution as a writer.
• Personal Reflection: Consider adding a brief note or preface to each piece, elucidating the inspiration or the process behind it.
• Quality Over Quantity: It’s better to have fewer, well-crafted pieces than a plethora of mediocre ones. Dedicate time to revising and refining each entry.
• Seek Feedback: Before finalizing, share your portfolio with mentors, peers, or writers’ groups to obtain constructive critiques.

Recommendations

If the application necessitates recommendation letters , ensure they come from individuals familiar with your writing and commitment to the craft. Their insights can offer a different perspective on your aptitude.

Approaching the admission process with diligence, authenticity, and a genuine passion for writing will enhance your chances of securing a spot in the academy.

The journey of a writer is etched with words, experiences, and continuous evolution. Georgetown University’s Creative Writing Academy presents an exceptional opportunity to embark on such a transformative voyage. Through its meticulously designed program, it not only nurtures your dreams and ideas but refines them into compelling, creative written works.

Investing in your passion today is a commitment to your future. Every poem penned, every story crafted, adds to your literary arsenal, paving the way for countless opportunities. Whether you aspire to become a published author, a celebrated poet, or use writing in multifaceted careers, the skills and experiences gained at Georgetown will be your guiding beacon.

Embrace this chance to immerse yourself in a world where words wield magic, where stories come to life, and where every writer, novice or adept, finds a home. Begin your literary journey at Georgetown and watch as doors of endless possibilities swing open.

If you’re set on getting into a world-class college but aren’t sure how to make it happen, we can help! AdmissionSight is a leading college entrance expert with over a decade of experience helping students just like you get into the schools of their dreams.

At AdmissionSight, we focus on offering a wide range of services, all aimed at helping students perfect their applications to catch the attention of admissions officers. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about what we offer.

Want to assess your chances of admission? Take our FREE chances calculator today!

Why College Admissions Isn’t Perfect

US News Rankings

The Personal Statement: The Holy Grail of College Admissions

The Modern Day 4.0 and 1600 SAT Score Student Is No Longer Impressive

The Competitive Nature of College Admissions for Asian Americans

The College Application

Our Comprehensive Approach

Ivy League Schools

How Early Should You Prepare for College?

Featured in US News & World Report Best Colleges Publication

Congratulations to AdmissionSight Students and their Acceptances!

College Rejection

College Rankings

College Consultants Could Make A Difference

College Admissions Scandal and Higher Education

How to Compete in the FIRST Robotics Competition

How To Compete In The American Protégé International Competitions

Dartmouth Diversity Statistics

Johns Hopkins University Diversity Statistics

Caltech Diversity Statistics

Your Comprehensive Guide to the UCSB Summer Research Academies

Wesleyan Supplemental Essays 2023-2024: Prompts and Tips

Zero Robotics: All You Need to Know

A Complete Guide To the American Fine Arts Festival

How to Get Published in the Curieux Academic Journal

Duke University Diversity Statistics

Northwestern University Diversity Statistics

University of Chicago Diversity Statistics

How to Compete in Regeneron ISEF

How To Advance In the North American Computational Linguistics Olympiad

Why You Should Join The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute

Stanford University Diversity Statistics

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Articles

How to Compete in the...

How To Compete In The...

Your Comprehensive Guide to the...

Wesleyan Supplemental Essays 2023-2024: Prompts...

Zero Robotics: All You Need...

A Complete Guide To the...

How to Get Published in...

Sign up now to receive insights on how to navigate the college admissions process.

Admissions Counseling

• Academic & Extracurricular Profile Evaluation

Copyright © AdmissionSight 2024

Privacy Policy - Terms and Conditions

• Search All Scholarships
• Exclusive Scholarships
• Easy Scholarships to Apply For
• No Essay Scholarships
• Scholarships for HS Juniors
• Scholarships for HS Seniors
• Scholarships for College Students
• Scholarships for Grad Students
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships for Black Students
• Scholarships
• Student Loans
• College Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Scholarship Winners
• Scholarship Providers

Student-centric advice and objective recommendations

Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here .

Top 10 Summer Writing Programs for High School Students

Prior to coming to Scholarships360 for her first internship in 2022, Savannah utilized her campus publications by joining various fashion publications that are offered at Ohio University. One of those publications is Thread Magazine, where Savannah has had the opportunity to work on articles related to world-wide related fashion news and events, as well as articles closer to home, such as a fashion piece on Athens hometown-hero Joe Burrow. This year, Savannah also had the opportunity to be a content writing intern for Aiken House, as well as a section editor for Southeast Ohio Magazine. In 2023, Savannah served as the Chapter President of her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta. These collective experiences, as well as her experience currently working for Ohio University’s Undergraduate Admissions, has led her to Scholarships360 and aided in her passion for helping students better understand the college admissions process and financial aid. In her free time, Savannah enjoys horseback riding, watching Formula One races, traveling, and spending time with her friends and family. Savannah will graduate from Ohio University in May 2024 with a degree in Journalism News and Information and a certificate in Italian Studies.

Learn about our editorial policies

If you are a high school student interested in enhancing your writing skills over the summer, look no further. Scholarships360 has you covered with our picks for top 10 writing summer camps for high school students. Let’s dive right in!

What is a summer writing program?

A summer writing program offers high school students interested in different types of writing to immerse themselves in the field. These programs range from creative writing, to playwriting, to poetry, and everything in between. 

Why we selected the following writing programs

We chose a diverse range of writing summer camps for high school students that vary in price, location, and academic focus. These are definitely not all of the writing programs that are in existence, but we wanted to name a few that impressed us.

A note on application deadlines and program dates

Application deadlines and program dates vary from program to program because these are all at different institutions, all over the country. We will do our best to keep these dates updated, so if a program that you are interested in currently says “TBD”, check back in a few weeks and the program may have released that information!

Apply to these scholarships due soon

$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

“Mom to Scholar” Scholarship for Mothers

$40,000 Build a College List Scholarship

“Gutsy Graduate Student” Essay Scholarship

$10,000 CollegeXpress Scholarship

“College Here I Come” Essay Scholarship for High School Seniors

“Making Waves” Scholarship for Women

Niche $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

Top 10 summer writing programs for high schoolers, 1. iowa young writers’ studio.

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio is a two-week session located at the University of Iowa campus or online. The two programs run at the same time, and there are two different date options for students to choose from. With this program, students select their primary focus throughout the program– fiction writing, poetry writing, or creative writing. 

• Program benefits : Readings by published writers; workshops on process and aspects of craft; discussions on writing-adjacent subjects (literary translation, film, revision, mental health); collaborative projects to allow small groups of students to work together; as well as open mics, talent shows, icebreakers, and social gatherings
• Application deadline: February 4th, 2024
• Session 1: June 16-29, 2024
• Session 2: July 14-27, 2024
• Cost: The in-person program is $2,500, and the online program is $575

2. Interlochen Center for the Arts Camp Creative Writing Programs

Interlochen Center for the Arts is a prestigious arts center for students of all ages who are interested in various types of arts to hone in on their craft. The Camp Creative Writing Programs are for high school students of all ages. Campers choose between four different tracks– Comics and Graphic Narratives Intensive, Creative Writing Program, Novel Writing Intensive, or Performance Poetry Intensive. The focus below is the broadest category, the Creative Writing Program. This three week intensive allows students to immerse themselves in the world of writing. 

• Program benefits : Genre workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and playwriting; placed in classes outside of comfort zones to learn more about different genres; reading showcase; guest artists and speakers
• Application deadline: January 15th, 2023, for both sessions
• Session 1: June 23, 2024 to July 13, 2024
• Session 2: July 14, 2024 to August 4, 2024
• Cost: $6,765

3. Sarah Lawrence College Writer’s Week: A Creative Writing & Performance Arts Workshop

The Sarah Lawrence Creative Writing and Performance Arts Workshop is offered both online and in person. The in-person workshop is a day camp, not a residential program. Each day of the program, students attend writing workshops led by poets, prose writers, and performance artists. The program also includes faculty led workshops and meetings, as well as a celebration of student work at the end of the program. 

• Program benefits : Work with distinguished faculty and graduate students, generating materials to share, collaboration with peers, learning to revise and edit. 
• Application deadline: TBD, registration opens in February
• Virtual session: July 15 – 19, 2024
• In-Person session: August 5 – 9, 2024
• July Session (Virtual) $1,025 ($100 deposit)
• August Session (On Campus) $1,550 ($200 deposit)

4. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program

The Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program is a six-week high school summer program where students immerse themselves in writing, film, design, art, and culture. This program teaches students how to properly tell a story, regardless of what their story may be. Applicants must be sophomores or juniors in high school at the time of the application submission. There are opportunities to receive scholarships for this program as well, which is something to keep in mind while applying. 

• Program benefits : Opportunities to explore some of Pittsburgh’s world-class museums, access to the Carnegie Mellon Archives and Fine and Rare Book Rooms, mentorship and networking opportunities.
• Application deadline : Early decision deadline is February 1st, 2024, regular decision deadline is March 1st, 2024
• Program dates: June 22nd – July 20th, 2024
• Residential: $8,995
• Commuter: $6,800

Related: Top writing and essay scholarships

5. Denison University Reynolds Young Writers Workshop

The Reynolds Young Writers Workshop based out of Denison University in Granville, Ohio is an eight-day residential writing program that helps to immerse students in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction writing. This program is open to students who have completed their sophomore or junior year of high school who have an interest in writing. Generous financial assistance is available to those who need it.  

• Program benefits : Group sessions, hands-on work with Denison faculty and staff, notable visiting writers
• Application deadline: March 1st, 2024 at 11:59 PM
• Program dates: June 22 – 29, 2024
• Cost: $1,500

6. Alpha– The Young Writers Workshop

Alpha – The Young Writers Workshop is a 12-day writing workshop for students ages 14-19 located on the University of Pittsburgh Greensburg campus. Not only will students immerse themselves in their writing and have the opportunity to hone in on that skill, but they will also learn more about the technical side of writing– submitting for publication, editing, and receiving feedback. Alpha also offers scholarships for those who may need them. 

• Program benefits : Ample time spent with influential professors, opportunities for brainstorming workshops, professional writer presentations, lectures. 
• Application deadline : March 10th, 2024
• Program dates : July 24 – August 4, 2024

Don’t miss: Top free summer programs for high school students

7. Loyola Marymount University- Beginning Screenwriting Program

The Loyola Marymount University Beginning Screenwriting Program is a hands-on two-week program located on the campus of one of the nation’s best film schools. Students learn the basics of the script developing process, gain a deeper understanding of cinematic storytelling, and enhance their writing skills. The first program dates are for eligible high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The second program dates are for juniors and seniors only. 

• Program benefits : Opportunity for hands-on experiences within Los Angeles’ film industry, touring local film or television studio”
• Application deadline : March 15th, 2024
• Session 1: June 23-July 6, 2024
• Session 2: July 14-July 27, 2024
• Cost : $5,800 with a $65 application fee

8. Georgetown University Creative Writing Academy

The Georgetown University Creative Writing Academy is a week-long writing academy for high school students of all ages. During this academy, students have the opportunity to work on and present a capstone project, which can be on various topics and within various subject areas. This academy focuses largely on the publishing aspects of creative writing. 

• Program benefits : Readings from published authors, work with Georgetown faculty and staff, field trips, group discussions
• Application deadline : The “Early Bird” deadline is January 31st, 2024, and the Final deadline is May 15th, 2024
• Program dates: July 14th – 20th, 2024
• Cost :$3,389, includes tuition, housing, and meals

9. Emerson Writes

The Emerson Writes is an on-campus program that focuses on topics such as fiction, prose, scriptwriting, comedy writing, graphic novel writing, and performance poetry. This program offers students opportunities to create and revise their personal writing portfolio. 

• Program benefits : Work with highly regarded faculty writers, participate in literary hangouts, participate in “final reading” at the conclusion of the program
• Application deadline : TBD, not yet open
• Program dates : Depending on which courses you choose to take, the schedule varies, but the first class starts in September 2024
• Cost : Free

Also see: How to rock the summer before your senior year

10. Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program

The last entry on our list of writing summer camps for high school students is also one of the most prestigious. The Harvard Pre-College Summer School Program is a two-week summer program that offers over 100 non-credit courses for high school students to take part in. The Speech, Writing, and Literature topic is a great option for students who want to pursue a career in writing or just want to develop their craft. This topic offers multiple different courses, such as creative writing, English, expository writing, journalism, and speech. The program also offers some financial aid for qualifying students. 

• Program benefits : Build valuable academic skills, learn to live independently on a college campus, take sample college courses
• Early Application and Priority Financial Aid Deadline — January 10, 2024
• Regular Application and Financial Aid Deadline — February 14, 2024
• Late Application Deadline — April 10, 2024
• Session I: June 23 – July 5, 2024
• Session II: July 7 – 19, 2024
• Session III: July 21 – August 2, 2024
• Cost : $5,550 + $75 application fee

Don’t miss: High school checklist: Freshman through senior year

• Now that you’ve got some writing summer camps for high school students in mind, start preparing your application materials! This may include application essays , letters of recommendation , transcripts, or sample writing materials
• Apply for program scholarships if needed
• Write! Bring your writing samples with you, as you never know when you might need them
• Don’t forget that Scholarships360 offers all the resources you need as you continue your education! It’s never too early to learn about extracurricular activities and when to start applying to colleges ! 

Start your scholarship search

• Vetted scholarships custom-matched to your profile
• Access exclusive scholarships only available to Scholarships360 members

Scholarships360 Recommended

10 Tips for Successful College Applications

Coalition vs. Common App: What is the difference?

College Application Deadlines 2023-2024: What You Need to Know

Trending now.

How to Convert Your GPA to a 4.0 Scale

PSAT to SAT Score Conversion: Predict Your Score

What Are Public Ivy League Schools?

3 reasons to join scholarships360.

• Automatic entry to our $10,000 No-Essay Scholarship
• Personalized matching to thousands of vetted scholarships
• Quick apply for scholarships exclusive to our platform

By the way...Scholarships360 is 100% free!

What are your chances of acceptance?

Calculate for all schools, your chance of acceptance.

Your chancing factors

Extracurriculars.

21 Summer Writing Programs for High School Students in 2024

What’s covered:, 21 summer writing programs for high school students, how impressive are summer programs in college admissions, other ways to spend your summer.

Summer programs offer high school students an excellent opportunity to explore subjects that interest them, build valuable skills, get a taste of college life, and meet like-minded peers. They also look awesome on a college application! If you’re interested in writing, you’ll want to check out these 20 summer writing programs for high school students. 

1. Princeton Summer Journalism Program 

Dates: Classes begin mid July, residential portion is July 26 – August 5

Location: Online and in Princeton, NJ

Application deadline: February 15

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) selects 40 high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds to participate in its revered program. In the PSJP, students explore current events, listen to lectures, and participate in workshops led by professional journalists and Princeton professors. The program culminates with the publication of a student-produced newspaper, the Princeton Summer Journal . To qualify for the PSJP you must: 

• Be a junior in high school
• Live in the United States and intend to attend college in the U.S.
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.5 
• Have an interest in journalism
• The combined income of custodial parent(s)/guardian(s) plus child support payments, if any, must not exceed $60,000
• Qualify for free or reduced-price lunch 
• Qualify for an SAT or ACT fee waiver

Dates: August 3 – 9

Location: Austin, Texas

Application deadline: March 1

JCamp is a free six-day program put on by the Asian American Journalist Association that brings together a culturally diverse group of students from across the U.S. Under the eye of veteran journalists and leading media executives, students take part in workshops to sharpen their journalistic skills and gain hands-on experience producing multi-platform news packages for the program’s website. JCamp is not limited to Asian American students; any student with an interest in journalism—like writing for a newspaper or magazine—is encouraged to apply. 

3. Iowa Young Writers’ Studio 2 Week Residential Program

• Session 1: June 16 – 29
• Session 2: July 14 – 27

Location: In-person in Iowa City, IA, or virtual

Application deadline: February 4

Cost: In-person: $2,500; virtual: $575

The Iowa Young Writers’ Studio provides high schoolers the incredible opportunity to have a residential experience and study with graduates of one of the most renowned writing programs in the nation: the Iowa Writers’ Workshop. Participants in this program choose a focus—either poetry, fiction, creative writing, playwriting, or television writing—and share their work, practice their craft, and improve their writing while working alongside other high school writers from across the U.S. 

4. Sarah Lawerence Writers’ Week 

• Virtual: July 15 – 19
• In-person: August 5 – 9

Location: Virtual or Bronxville NY

Application deadline: TBD. Registration opens in February

Cost: Virtual: $1025; In-person: $1,550

During Sarah Lawerence Writers’ Week, participants (the program welcomes students entering the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades) explore the creative process led by esteemed Sarah Lawrence faculty and alumni. Sarah Lawerence Writing Week celebrates the risk and adventure of the creative process, fosters a non-competitive and non-judgmental environment, and keeps with the Sarah Lawrence tradition of individualized attention—groups are limited to 18 students with two faculty members per workshop. The program ends with a celebration that includes both faculty and student readings.  

5. California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA) Writing Program

Dates: July 6 – August 2

Location: Sacramento, CA

Application deadline: February 29

Cost: CA State Residents: $4,600; Out-of-state: $7,000

This summer program for high school students in California is a unique public-private partnership that was founded by the California State legislature in 1987. Approximately 70 students are selected to participate in this program led by professional writers and educators who guide them through work in fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and dramatic writing. The program prides itself on its creative environment and looks for young writers who love language, reading, and are ready to share their own stories. 

6. Juniper Young Writers Online Writing Lab 

• One-week program: July 29 – August 2
• Two-week program: July 29 – August 9

Location: Amherst, MA

Application deadline: March 7

Cost: $2,600 for one week; $4,950 for two weeks

Students in the Juniper Young Writers Online Writing Lab participate in writing sessions, share questions, and discuss their work and writing-related topics over the course of this program. Led by professional teachers, published authors, and graduate students at UMass Amherst, Writing Lab participants gain insight into the creative process, find inspiration for work, learn tips to improve their writing and develop relationships with other young writers. Students will be provided a written summary of their work, an evaluation toward writing goals, and future considerations for their writing.

7. Annenberg Youth Academy for Media and Civic Engagement (AYA) 

Dates: June 17 – July 19

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Application deadline: March 22

AYA is a free, immersive experience for talented high school students from the area surrounding USC. The program allows participants to explore USC Annenberg’s undergraduate programs, gain insight into careers in media and journalism, and meet the people advancing issues of race, gender, and ethnicity in communication and journalism. Over the course of this program, students build a variety of skills, including writing and critical thinking. 

8. Reynolds Young Writers Workshop 

Dates: June 22 – 29

Location: Granville, OH

Cost: $1,500

For more than a quarter of a century, Denison University has welcomed talented high school writers to its acclaimed Reynolds Young Writers Workshop. Led by Denison’s creative writing faculty and notable visiting writers, participants take part in small creative writing workshops and group sessions to explore a variety of writing techniques in an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

9. Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Dates: June 23 – 28

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Application deadline: April 1

The Camp Cronkite program is a summer media enrichment camp allowing high schoolers to dive into the world of media. Led by Cronkite faculty, staff, and students, campers learn about digital journalism, broadcast journalism, or sports media. They will work on reporting, pitching, storytelling, and editing, and receive hands-on instruction in video editing, photography, reporting and writing, script development, and more. There are several scholarships available for students who demonstrate financial need. 

10. Alpha Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Workshop for Young Writers

Dates: July 24 – August 4

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

Application deadline: March 10

Over Alpha’s 12 days, students with an interest in science fiction, fantasy, or horror learn how to generate ideas, turn those ideas into drafts, critique each other’s work, make revisions, and submit their work to paying markets. The program also provides students with an introduction to college life and allows them to explore a career as a professional writer. 

11. 92Y Unterberg Poetry Center Young Writers Workshop

Dates: July 8 – 25

Location: New York, NY

Application deadline: May 28

Cost: $2,600

The Unterberg Poetry Center has been home to established and up-and-coming poets since it was founded in 1939. Students at its Young Writers Workshop receive coaching from some of New York’s best writing teachers and explore a variety of forms, styles, and voices in a warm and supportive environment. Participants learn to look critically at their own work and will leave the workshop with a clearer understanding of their goals as a writer and what it takes to make a career in the literary world. 

12. Shared Worlds

Dates: July 14 – 27

Location: Spartanburg, SC

Application deadline: Rolling

This fun writing program is for high school students with an interest in speculative fiction—for example, science fiction, fantasy, and steampunk. Shared Worlds is a residential program for rising 8th-12th grade students to work under the guidance of renowned fantasy and science fiction writers. Over the course of the workshop, students imagine, build, and write their own stories and have their enthusiasm for writing encouraged. 

13. Bard College at Simon’s Rock Young Writers Workshop

Dates: July 7 – 27

Location: Great Barrington, MA

Cost: $3,500

This program is modeled on the well-known Language and Thinking Workshop all students entering Bard College are required to take. Unlike other creative writing workshops, leaders of this young writers workshop encourage informal, playful, and expressive writing and lean on peer response to develop polished pieces of writing. Students will live, eat, and work on campus, gaining firsthand experience living and learning in a college atmosphere while producing pieces ranging from short stories and poems to brief dramatic works and experiments in creative nonfiction.

14. Kenyon Review Summer Residential Young Writers Workshops

• Session 1: June 23 – July 6

Location: Gambier, OH

Cost: $2,575

Every summer, talented writers from across the U.S. come to the picturesque campus of Kenyon College to participate in its Young Writers Workshop. In this multi-genre program, students experience what it’s like to be part of the literary community while bolstering their talents, discovering new strengths, and challenging themselves in the company of similarly interested peers. 

15. Kenyon Review Summer Online Young Writers Workshop

Dates: June 16 – 21

Location: Online

Application deadline: April 15

For students who can’t make it to Ohio for two weeks, the online workshop is a great alternative. With writing workshops for three and a half hours every day, it’s possible to take advantage of the program without relocating. In the evening, students will attend virtual open mics, social gatherings, and talks and readings by authors. 

16. BYU Young Authors Academy

Dates: July 8 – 13

Location: Provo, UT

At BYU’s Young Authors Academy, students speak with local and nationally-recognized authors, review each others’ writing, work with faculty in the BYU English department, stay in campus housing, take small-group writing courses, and meet other, like-minded peers. Students can choose from two electives over the program, including Creating Believable Tales and Villains, Flash Fiction, and Breaking News. 

17. Fir Acres Writing Workshop

Dates: June 23 – July 6

Location: Portland, OR

Application deadline: March 8

Cost: $3,700

Fir Acres writing program takes sixty rising 10th-12th graders from around the country and forms a community of enthusiastic writers on the campus of Lewis and Clark College. Students participate in daily workshops studying and writing under the guidance of Lewis and Clark’s faculty. They also meet and hear from visiting writers and work on their own poetry, fiction, and other writings. 

18. LMU’s Beginning Screenwriting Program 

Application deadline: March 15

Cost: $5,800 plus a $65 application fee

LMU’s School of Film and Television offers this program to students looking to enhance their writing skills and learn the elements of screenwriting. Students will work on structure, character development, dialogue, formatting, and genre while analyzing both classic and contemporary popular movies. They will learn from faculty members who are also professional screenwriters and leave the program with a short script. 

19. Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Writing and Culture Program 

Dates: June 22 – July 20

Cost: $6,800- $8,995

Over the weeks of the program, students at CMU will examine film, writing, design, art, and culture through various lenses. Learning will take place both on CMU’s campus and around the city of Pittsburgh. Students will produce a body of work perfect for a portfolio during the program under the tutelage of highly distinguished faculty members of the Department of English. Classes are held Monday through Friday, and students emerge with individualized feedback and guidance to enhance their creative pursuits. 

20. Boston University Summer Journalism Academy

• On Campus: June 24 – July 12
• Virtual Session 1: June 17 – 28
• Virtual Session 2: July 1 – 12
• Virtual Session 3: July 15 – 26

Application deadline: April 19 for in person; May 10 for remote

Location: Virtual or Boston, MA

Cost: $1500 to $6200

Taught by working journalists, BU’s Summer Journalism Academy gives high school students actual reporting assignments to give them a jump-start into the world of journalism. With both virtual and in-person options, there is something for everyone. There are scholarships and financial aid available for students demonstrating financial need. Students must be a rising 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grader in high school to attend. For applicants who get their materials in by March 8th, there is a $400 discount for in-person, and a $200 discount for virtual learning. 

21. The School of The New York Times’ Summer Academy

• Term 1: June 9 – 21
• Term 2: June 23 – July 5
• Term 3: July 7 – 19
• Term 4: July 21 – August 2

Location: New York City

Cost: $5,935 to $7,220

From DIY Filmmaking to A Million Lives in the Law and Pop Music as Art & Business, The School of the New York Times offers a wide range of fascinating classes to students interested in journalism. In the heart of New York City, students can spend several weeks learning from experienced journalists working in the field. Scholarship applications are only available until the end of February, so interested students should apply ASAP. 

Summer programs—and other extracurricular activities—can help set you apart, particularly at highly selective schools. CollegeVine’s free admissions calculator can tell you how colleges value your extracurricular activities and uses factors like grades and test scores (along with extracurriculars) to estimate your odds of acceptance at hundreds of schools across the country. It even provides insight into how you can improve your profile!

Though summer break provides you with the most time to explore your passions, it is not the only time. Colleges want to see that you are curious about the world around you and are constantly seeking new learning opportunities. 

Instead of participating in a program, you could create your own. Writing a book or mobilizing a team to solve an issue in your local community are examples of independent efforts that look impressive to colleges. 

You can show further initiative by taking on internships and paying jobs. Both demonstrate initiative, a career direction, and key life skills like time management and responsibility. Since most internships are reserved for college students and graduates, it can be a challenge to find opportunities for high school students. To help with the search, here is a list of summer internships for high school students. Looking for more summer programs? Take a look at this list of virtual opportunities for high school students.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

2024 Summer Schedule Now Open!

• Academic and Creative Arts programs
• (510) 548-6612
• Join Our Email List
• Specialties Main Page
• Academic Achievement
• Performing Arts
• Gifted and Talented
• Science and Engineering
• A+ Summer Middle School
• A+ Summer High School
• A+ Summer Pre-College
• A+ Summer Leadership
• Anatomy/Physiology 4th-6th
• Astrophysics 6th - 8th
• Astrophysics 9th-12th
• Cardiology 6th-8th
• Engineering 4th-6th
• Genetics 6th - 8th
• Marine Science 6th-8th
• Neuroanatomy 7th-9th
• Neuroanatomy 9th-12th
• Quantum Mechanics 9th - 12th
• Robotics 6th-8th
• Robotics 9th-12th
• Middle School Actors Workshop
• High School Actors Workshop
• College Admission Prep Camp
• California College Tour
• East Coast College Tour
• Custom Family College Tours
• Computer Programming
• Public Forum Debate
• Varsity and Encore Speech
• Novice Speech
• Coach Institute (adults)
• Emerging Writers Institute 4th-6th

Emerging Writers Institute 7th-9th

• Emerging Writers Institute 10th-12th
• English Language Learners
• Mock Trial - Middle School
• Mock Trial - High School
• Psychology 9th-12th
• Public Speaking Institute - Elementary School
• Public Speaking Institute - Middle School
• Public Speaking Institute - High School
• Video Production
• College Tours
• Georgetown University
• Stanford University
• UC Berkeley
• Camps: Rising 4-5th Graders
• Camps: Rising 6-8th Graders
• Camps: Rising 9-10th Graders
• Camps: Rising 11-12th Graders
• Adult/Graduate Programs
• Why Education Unlimited?
• Client Testimonials
• Download Brochures
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Special Offers from Education Unlimited
• Job Opportunities
• Online Application
• Enrollment Policies
• Cancellation and Refund Policy
• Group Discount Program
• Tuition Assistance Program
• Why Education Unlimited
• Low Price Guarantee
• Tell a Friend
• Request Brochure
• Register for Camp

Specialties

Emerging Writers Institute is a unique opportunity for rising 7th - 9th graders to explore creative writing. From day one, students are challenged through small group seminars focused on fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. In these seminars, and at daily writing workshops, students investigate the fundamentals of storytelling and discover how to read like writers. Diverse afternoon electives may include sci-fi writing, screenwriting, graphic novels, and travel writing and are used to let students try out new genres in a safe, exploratory environment. Scheduled writing time and one-on-one instructor evaluations help students develop good writing habits that will serve them year-round. By the end of the week, students will share polished pieces for publication in their own literary magazine and present their work in an informal reading for family and friends.

Click here for a downloadable information sheet about the online version of this course or click the tabs below to learn more about this program. 

• Sessions & Pricing
• Photo Gallery
• Sample Schedule
• Program Staff

Whether online or in person, Education Unlimited proudly offers top tier curriculum in our Emerging Writers Institute.  To learn more about our online program, click here .

Emerging Writers Institute is a unique opportunity for rising 7th - 9th graders to explore creative writing. From day one, students are challenged through small group seminars. In these seminars, and at daily writing workshops, students investigate the fundamentals of storytelling and discover how to read like writers. Workshops in Science Fiction, Creative Non-Fiction, and Poetry are used to let students try out new genres in a safe, exploratory environment. Scheduled writing time and one-on-one instructor evaluations help students develop good writing habits that will serve them year round. By the end of the week, students will share polished pieces for publication in their own literary anthology.

Specific Skill Development

This creative writing summer program encourages students to challenge themselves technically and artistically through guided daily writing workshops, one-on-one instructor evaluations, group editing sessions, and creative presentations of their work. Emphasis is placed in expressive writing as a process rather than in rules or formulas. Instructors consistently encourage students to discover and refine their own unique voices. We know that successful writers are also critical and voracious readers; as a result, the inclusion of reading exercises and analysis are woven into the program as an essential tool for growth.

Curriculum & Environment

EWI is conducted in a seminar-style environment were students improve their craft through regular feedback from peers and instructors. Students will also receive inspiration from off-campus, instructor-led activities designed to introduce them to the literary culture surrounding their college campus.

In EWI, Students select a major focus area called a Writer’s Block. In each Writer’s Block, students read classic and contemporary examples of the genre, craft and hone their writing composition, and prepare to present their piece to an audience of readers and listeners.

This year’s Writer’s Blocks may include:

Short and Sweet: Short Story Seminar

Well-Versed: Poetry Seminar

The ‘Wright Stuff: Playwright’s Seminar

The Real Word: Nonfiction Seminar

Highlights & Deliverables

Participants in the program will be uniquely positioned to profit from the literary culture of the university area. One benefit of these seminars is to ready students' work for professional submission to youth publications, such as the Claremont Review, The Writer's Slate, Stone Soup, and Teen Ink. By the program’s conclusion, students will produce and refine quality pieces suitable for publication in their own literary magazine and professional teen publications.

By the end of the week, students will share polished pieces for publication in their own literary magazine and present their work in an informal reading for on the final day of camp. At the conclusion of the summer season, their piece will be published in an impressive anthology that will be mailed home to families.

Grade Level Specifics

Rising 7th-9th Graders

From day one, EWI students are challenged through small group seminars focused on fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction. In these seminars and at daily writing workshops, students investigate the fundamentals of storytelling and discover how to read critically to support their writing development. Diverse afternoon electives may include sci-fi writing, screenwriting, graphic novels, and travel writing and are used to let students try out new genres in a safe, exploratory environment. Scheduled writing time and one-on-one instructor evaluations help students develop strong writing habits that will serve them in all facets of their schooling and beyond.

NOTE: The offering of majors is based upon enrollment and student needs, which varies substantially. Our diverse afternoon workshops have included nontraditional writing genres, such as speech writing, ‘zine creation, graphic novels, journalism, nature writing, and advertising copy. These courses seek to engage students with diverse material. Furthermore, the program recruits guest speakers from the publishing industry and local authors to give readings and answer questions about literary life and labor.

Price Options for Emerging Writers Institute 7th-9th

Click here for a downloadable information sheet about our online program.  

Don’t see a class you want in your time zone? Check other time zones to flexibly fit your needs!

Education Unlimited believes in small-group, immersive learning with subject matter experts and experienced teachers. We strive to provide industry-leading instruction to all of our students and hold all staff to the highest possible standards. Staff assignments vary by program and location. Some of our recent staff members for this program include:

Elizabeth Bull, MFA - Camp Director

Elizabeth Bull is a writer and filmmaker. Her writing has been published in various journals, including the Los Angeles Review of Books, H.O.W. Journal, Third Coast Magazine, and Gulf Coast; her work has been nominated for two Pushcart Prizes.  Her involvement in television and film began at AMC Networks, where she worked in original series development during the creation of “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad.” In addition to writing and directing several short films, she co-wrote the feature film “Song of Sway Lake,” released in the fall of 2017. Elizabeth has also co-produced two feature films and a television series for Fuse.

Elizabeth received her Bachelor’s degree from the School of Theater, Film, and Television at the University of California Los Angeles. She also holds a Master in Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing (Fiction) from The New School in New York City.  In addition, she has studied directing at the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design, and Technology in Dublin, Ireland on a Rotary International Fellowship.  She has taught writing at the University of Zadar in Croatia on a Fulbright Fellowship.  Elizabeth has been with Education Unlimited since 2010.

Patrick McHugh, MFA - Instructor

Patrick McHugh is a native Arizonan with a background in English literature, creative writing, and critical theory. He is a graduate of Arizona State University's Barrett Honors College with a degree in English literature. Patrick received his Master's degree in English literature from the University at Buffalo. Experienced in a wide variety of classroom settings, Patrick initially taught at SIAS International University in Henan, China before returning to Arizona. While in the states he has worked with EU as an Assistant Director, A+ Middle School English teacher, and taught creative writing at the Emerging Writers Institute for both middle school and high school students. He previously taught 6th grade English for BASIS Phoenix. Currently, Patrick is serving as an adjunct faculty in the English department at Grand Canyon University, with a focus on English Composition courses for freshman students. He is passionate about guiding each student using their own voices and talents, fostering unique reading and writing skills as well as empowering critical thinking. On a personal level, Patrick is a devoted music lover and performs as a clarinet player, drummer, and electronic composer. He also indulges his interests in contemporary art and 21st-century literature.

Patricia Hicks - Instructor

Patricia "Trish" Hicks has been one of Education Unlimited's most beloved writing instructors since 2016. She is an educator, writer, and passionate teaching artist with over 20 years of experience. Her dedication to the transformative power of language arts and experiential learning is evident through the time she has spent teaching and mentoring for organizations such as Urban Word NYC, Reel Works Teen Documentary Filmmaking, and The Cooper Union Saturday Outreach Program, all of which strive to provide platforms for youth to develop their literacy, creative and leadership skills. In addition, Patricia has taught with and developed literacy curricula for numerous organizations and schools nationwide including The San Francisco Day School, The Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Harlem RBI, and the College University of New York.

Emily Rosello Mercurio is a writer and educator who has taught poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and academic composition at Cornell University and Education Unlimited. She earned her B.A. from Wheaton College (2016), double majoring in English and Women's Studies, and her M.F.A in Creative Writing from Cornell University (2018). She has served as an Assistant Editor for EPOCH Magazine and as the Literary Editor for Rushlight. Her work has appeared in Puerto del Sol, Vallum, Spoon River Poetry Review, and other journals. She is a 2017 winner of the Bermuda Triangle Prize.

Ploy Pirapokin, MFA - Instructor

Ploy Pirapokin is a writer and instructor currently teaching Nonfiction for the Creative Non-fiction Foundation.  She is also an adjunct instructor for the University of Los Angeles Extension program and does freelance training for The Writer, a global brand language agency.  Ploy has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and English from the University of San Diego.  During her time at SFSU, Ploy lectured in Creative Writing and also worked as a Creative Writing Admissions Reader for the MFA and MA program.

Ploy’s own work has been featured in Tor.com, Apogee Journal, Entropy Magazine, the Bellingham Review, HYPHEN Magazine and more.  She has received multiple Pushcart Prize nominations for her work. She is a Writing by Writers Workshop at Tomales Bay fellow, a Community of Writers at Squaw Valley scholar, and was a Visiting Writer at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center.  She has been the recipient of grants and fellowships from the San Francisco Arts Commission, the Ragdale Foundation, the Anderson Center, the Brush Creek Foundation for the Arts, Kundiman and others.

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

• Elementary Camps

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

You will be redirected to CampBrain to make your program selections and register.

The Thrills and Chills of Creative Writing: Grades 4 – 6, Session 1

• Grades 4 - 6
• July 8 - 12
• Academic & Study Skills,

Pump up your writing with tips and twists from the award-winning (and frequently funny) author of 80+ children’s books!

This is NOT your typical writing program. It is an eye-opening expedition into the sometimes challenging and always exhilarating experience of creating a story (or article, or essay, or ANY kind of writing) that will entertain others. You’ll download effective strategies including how to produce a propulsive plot, populate it with unpredictable characters, incorporate humor, build to a compelling climax, and leave readers wanting more.

On a structural level, you’ll learn how to come up with irresistible opening lines, craft cliffhangers both epic and subtle, and use metaphor to develop your distinctive voice as a writer.

Each session, you will (a) complete one or two short writing exercises and (b) relax while listening to the imaginative stories of your peers—a nurturing mix of writing, sharing, and lively discussion.

You’ll come away from the program motivated to write for fun and ready to embrace the writing required for school…AKA skills for life! Also, you’ll look at books and movies you love in a new way, with a more critical eye, which will help you write more vividly yourself.

All writing is done in session; no homework.

IMPORTANT : Please tell your young writer  in advance  that everyone will  read aloud  what they write at camp. With conviction!

Marc is the author of 80+ books for young readers—nonfiction and fiction, drama and humor. His titles include  Bill the Boy Wonder: The Secret Co-Creator of Batman  (which changed history, inspiring the Hulu documentary  Batman & Bill , as well as a TED Talk),  Thirty Minutes Over Oregon: A Japanese Pilot’s World War II Story , and  The Chupacabra Ate the Candelabra .

He has done assemblies and workshops for kids in 30+ states and almost 20 countries, from Peru to Vietnam, and has two kids of his own. He’s had a blast working with young writers every summer at Landon since 2015 and Georgetown Day since 2020.

Fun fact: Marc’s first published writing was a poem about his mom that ran in his small hometown newspaper when he was 9 years old.

This is a one week program. Students will spend the morning portion participating in the writing camp and the afternoon will consist of lunch, recess, and fun camp activities such as games, challenges, experiments, arts and crafts, etc.

Photos depicting students not adhering to COVID safety protocols were taken pre-pandemic. Learn about our COVID-19 safety policies for our summer 2021 programming.

Related Programs

• Grades 4 - 5
• June 17 - 21

Math Problem-Solvers Camp

No camp on Wednesday, June 19th. This camp is specifically designed for kids looking for a challenge! For the morning portion of this program, students will learn problem-solving strategies, model and practice sample problems, then have the opportunity to work independently for some time, then come together to collaborate in teams to solve the problems, and finally come together as a whole group to compare and share solutions and convince each other that our answers are correct. For the afternoon portion of this program, students will have lunch and free time outside, as well as participate in fun activities such as art, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.

• Grades 3 - 5
• June 24 - 28

Creative Writing Camp

Calling on aspiring young authors! The morning portion of this program is designed to allow students to develop their skills as fiction writers. Through reading sample stories, campers will develop an understanding of the structure and story in fiction and compare the techniques of various authors. They will use their knowledge to plan for and create their own stories that will include a developed character, a problem and solution, dialogue and details. During the afternoon portion of the day students will have lunch and free time outdoors as well as participate in activities such as art, science experiments, simple cooking, games, etc.

Georgetown Hoya Summer High School Sessions

By the numbers, + courses and programs to explore, new friends to make, hours making memories on healy lawn, “hoya saxa” chants.

Summer 2024 Applications are CLOSED. Summer 2025 Applications will open in late Fall.

This summer, join us for an exciting learning program at Georgetown University. Our Hoya Summer High School Sessions offer the opportunity to explore your academic interests, meet classmates from around the world, and earn college credit—all while experiencing the excitement of college life.

All in all, I fell in love with the program. I got to meet so many amazing people not only from the D.C. area but all around the country.

Having the chance to experience once in a lifetime opportunities and getting to meet people from around the world made it so I got to really experience what college life was like.

My #SummerHoya experience was enriching, inspiring, and rewarding; if I could turn back the clock, I’d do it all over again.

It was amazing to be surrounded by such high caliber students and staff who were all encouraging and fabulous to work with. I took away many positive things from my week as a Summer Hoya.

As I am filling out my college applications, I am able to think back to my memories from the summer and I am reassured that I am pursuing the right educational path.

The program offers so much–from the off-site visits to the daily lectures and the on campus activities. The lectures were interesting, meeting new people was great and the off-site visits were interactive and intriguing.

Want to learn more?

Request information to find out the latest on the Summer Programs for High School Students.

All fields are required.

• Summer 2025

* indicates required field