Not Too Early to Think about Summer Writing Workshops

My mailbox has been filled with flyers and pamphlets for summer writing workshops!

Now is the time to consider which workshop you’d like to attend.

photo courtesy of anankkml
@ freedigitalphotos.net

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of summer writing workshops available, both in person and online.  But spots are limited at most summer conferences and workshops, so you'll want to apply as early as possible. The small class sizes allow workshop leaders to give each writer a lot of individual attention.

But the sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting in, and the better your chances of receiving a scholarship. Scholarships are awarded on the merit of your writing, on demonstrated financial need, or a combination of the two. In any case, writing workshops and conferences usually have early deadlines for these.

Check out New Pages’ website: it has the most comprehensive list of workshops and conferences I've seen. They’re organized by the state in which the conference is held.

I am encouraging ALL writers of any level to consider attending a writing workshop or conference. I have attended several, and although the format and purpose of each workshop/conference was very different, I learned so much about my writing, about the business of writing, and I networked with other writers, many of whom I’m still in touch with. But most importantly for me, I left each workshop rejuvenated, confident, and excited to be a writer.

my personal cabin at the Highlights Foundation workshop

Here is the short list of workshops/conferences I have attended within the past few years. I can vouch for the quality of these, and I am very happy to answer any questions you may have about them.

• Gettysburg Review Conference for Writers
• Highlights Foundation Workshops (I attended Life in the Spotlight)
• Philadelphia Writers Conference

And this year I plan to apply for the Kenyon Review Novel Workshop.

Which summer writing conferences have you attended? Any you’d recommend?

P.S. Remember that there are plenty of online workshops/classes available (like WOW’s workshops!).

Written by Anne Greenawalt, writer and writing instructor.