New Focus + Summer Writing

As more ideas have come to mind, I am going to begin pivoting this blog in a slightly different direction. Previously, all my focus had been on documentation of a sort. Talk about what I'm writing, what I'm reading, how I'm feeling. I enjoyed doing that, but it is beginning to grow quite stale, and I have thought of a more productive usage for this site: as something of a resource, rather than just my journal. Thus, I am going to transition into more of an educator-type role: sharing my writing strategies, what has worked well for me, talking about why I write, and posting resources for beginning writers. This way, the blog section of my website can be much more interesting and relevant for people visiting this site that are interested in writing, and do a lot more to support my goal of increasing the presence of the humanities. That said, I have the perfect thing to share to start off this new goal for the blog. Earlier today I wrapped up my final day of class with the Kenyon Review Young Writer's Workshops. It was certainly an interesting experience, and while I did have an overall good experience, what I got was not exactly what I was expecting. This program is one of the most well-known and reputable writing workshops for high schoolers, so I would certainly advise any serious young writer check it out: https://kenyonreview.org/high-school-workshops/. I applied and was accepted to the "Writing Across Worlds" summer program, with aims to produce a lot of short stories and get as much feedback as possible. The structure is actually significantly different, with a) a HEAVY focus on poetry and b) relies a lot more on self-exploration of different themes and ideas by offering a lot of good prompts but not offering for too much workshopping with peers. A bit of a shame on that second point, but I did still have a good experience and produce a lot of work, a come away from this experience very motivated to write. While on the topic of summer writing programs, there are a few more I can recommend at least off of reputation if not personal experience. While I decided where I wanted to do a writing program this summer, I applied to programs at Iowa, Kenyon and Duke, ultimately going with Kenyon. I also researched many other programs. The ones (besides Kenyon) I liked the most and would recommend to interested writers are: Iowa Young Writers' Studio: https://iyws.clas.uiowa.edu/2-week-summer-residential-program. Really one of the best in the nation, hosted by one of the best grad programs for creative writing anywhere. While the location may not be a big draw, the program is fantastic. Adroit Summer Mentorship: https://theadroitjournal.org/about/mentorship/. Really cool online mentorship program that I did not apply for simply because it is all summer long and I was too busy with a study abroad program. VERY competitive, so set your expectations for acceptance low, but I have personally heard from a friend that this is a fantastic program, and that the mentors here are pretty amazing. Sarah Lawrence Writer's Week: https://theadroitjournal.org/about/mentorship/. Do not know too much about this program, but very well-regarded. Offers online and in-person options, but does NOT offer housing, so tricky to attend if you do not live near Bronxville. Sewanee Young Writer's Conference: https://new.sewanee.edu/sywc/. Great-sounding and well-regarded program. I did not apply only because I was a bit turned off by the Southern location, but that could be a big draw for others. Very collaborative, community focused program. Of course, this is only a snapshot of the programs that are out there, but this is a good place to start for any young writer interested in a serious summer program. Good luck in your applications and endeavors!