Young Writers Workshop
A Summer in The Heights pre-college experience for students in grades 8–12.
Spend a week on a real college campus—living in the dorms, eating in the dining hall, and discovering what it means to be a writer.
The Young Writers Workshop brings together students who love to write for five days of craft-focused sessions, peer workshops, and one-on-one mentorship with published authors. You'll leave with stronger writing skills, a clearer voice, and the confidence to tackle your college application essays.
Dates July 12–17, 2026
Grades 8–12
Options Day or Residential
Application Due Mon, March 16, 2026
Questions? Email program coordinator Dr. Philip Metres at pmetres@jcu.edu or call 216-556-1101.
What to Expect
Great writing doesn't happen in isolation. This is a week of mentorship, workshops, and creative community—designed to help young writers find their voice.
Who it’s for
Writers in grades 8–12 who want to sharpen their craft and experience college life before they get there. No prior workshop experience needed—just a love of storytelling.
What you’ll study
Poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction—with a focus on the craft elements that make writing sing: voice, character, scene, and revision. You'll also get tools for writing a standout college personal essay.
How the week works
Mornings and afternoons are packed with writing exercises, guest author talks, and small-group workshops where you'll share and refine your work. Residential students get evening activities, campus access, and the full dorm experience.
A Day at Young Writers Workshop
Sample schedule (times and activities may vary)
7:30 a.m. Wake Up Residential
Rise and shine! Get ready for a day of writing and inspiration.
8:00–8:45 a.m. Breakfast Residential
Fuel up in the dining hall with your fellow writers before the morning sessions begin.
9:00–10:00 a.m. Introduction to Story Writing
Start the day with an instructor-led lesson exploring narrative techniques, story structure, and the elements that make fiction come alive.
10:00–11:00 a.m. Guided Writing
Writing exercises designed to build craft through practice. Put the morning's lesson into action with prompts and instructor support.
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Stories Workshop
Group discussion of student work with an eye toward revision. Learn to give and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment.
12:00–1:00 p.m. Lunch & Break
Recharge in the dining hall (vegetarian and vegan options available) and take time to relax before the afternoon sessions.
1:00–2:00 p.m. Guest Writer Talk
Conversation with a guest writer on craft, process, and publishing. Hear from working authors about their creative journeys.
2:00–3:00 p.m. Introduction to Poetry Writing
Poetry-focused instruction and examples to build both lyric and voice. Explore form, image, and the music of language.
3:00–4:00 p.m. Guided Writing
Structured writing time with prompts and instructor support. Apply poetry techniques to your own creative work.
4:00–5:00 p.m. Poetry Workshop
Workshop discussion of poems with feedback oriented toward revision. Day students head home after this session.
5:30–6:30 p.m. Dinner Residential
Enjoy dinner in the dining hall with your fellow writers. Vegetarian and vegan options available.
7:00–9:00 p.m. Evening Activities Residential
Games, use of the campus pool and facilities, movie showings, writing circles, and more. Student counselors lead a variety of activities each night.
10:00 p.m. Room Check & Lights Out Residential
Settle into your air-conditioned dorm room. Student counselors will check in to make sure you're all set for the night.
Cost
Both options include the same workshops, mentors, and creative community.
Commuter Option
Day Student
$500
July 13–17, 2026
- All writing workshops & sessions
- Lunch daily
- Guest writer talks & readings
- Published anthology inclusion
- On-campus housing
- Evening activities
Limited Space
Full Experience
Residential
$1,000
July 13–17, 2026
- All writing workshops & sessions
- All meals included
- Guest writer talks & readings
- Published anthology inclusion
- On-campus housing (4 nights)
- Evening writing circles & activities
Need-based scholarships available. Don't let cost be a barrier—partial scholarships are available for students who demonstrate financial need. Learn about tuition and aid →
How to Apply
You can easily apply by following the steps below. Need-based scholarships may be available; please indicate your interest on the application form.
- Complete the Summer in The Heights application form and indicate your interest in the Young Writers Workshop.
- Include a brief personal statement (why you'd like to attend) and a sample of your creative writing (1–3 pages of poetry, fiction, or nonfiction).
- Applications are due by Monday, March 16, 2026.
More Questions?
Get answers on housing, meals, packing, and more.
