Experience with Sewanee Young Writers Conference?

Hi all! I recently found out about the Sewanee Young Writers Conference and I'm considering applying. Has anyone attended before? What's the workshop like? Also, do you think participation in the conference would give me a boost when applying to colleges?

The Sewanee Young Writers Conference is a highly-regarded summer program that provides students with the opportunity to work closely with accomplished writers and mentors in a workshop setting. It can indeed be a great choice if you're passionate about creative writing and looking to further develop your skills in that area.

The workshops themselves are typically small and intimate, usually with about a dozen participants each. They are quite intensive and involve submitting your work for review, obtaining feedback, and engaging in comprehensive discussions about writing techniques and strategies. Some sessions even involve guest speakers, discussions on literary works, and the opportunity to listen to readings. Many attendees report gaining valuable insights and honing their writing abilities.

When it comes to college admissions, participation in the conference can be seen as a strong point, especially if you're applying to programs related to writing, literature, journalism, or the humanities. More specifically, attending the Sewanee Young Writers Conference can be seen as a Tier 2 or Tier 3 extracurricular activity. Tier 2 activities show high levels of achievement or leadership, while Tier 3 activities show a commitment and engagement to an interest or hobby. The tier will depend on how much you engage in and take away from the conference.

Remember, while participation in such programs does provide an element of prestige, it's important to approach it as a learning opportunity and an avenue to refine your writing skills above all else. If this aligns with your passion and career aspirations, then it may indeed provide a boost when applying to colleges!