Sewanee Young Writers Conference - Should You Apply?
If you are passionate about writing, and perhaps even have a story idea bouncing around in your head, then consider participating in writing conferences and retreats. These programs provide a platform to practice and expand your skills, receive feedback from published authors, and interact and share ideas and learnings with similarly talented peers. Such an experience can complement your academic achievements and make your college applications stand out, showcasing your dedication to developing your craft.
This blog covers the Sewanee Young Writers' Conference (SYWC), with information on the program’s features, cost, eligibility, and some pros and cons!
What is the Sewanee Young Writers' Conference?
Founded in 1993, the SYWC is an annual two-week-long summer conference held at the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. The conference aims to help high schoolers explore and enhance their writing skills. It provides courses across five main genres – fiction, poetry, songwriting, literary nonfiction, and fantasy. You can expect to learn from award-winning faculty and guest authors, improve your writing through rigorous workshops and one-on-one sessions, and network with your fellow writers.
Is SYWC prestigious?
SYWC is a prestigious and selective program that has helped shape the careers of many notable writers. SYWC receives thousands of applicants (5,700 in 2023) and admits only 80 annually.
What are the important dates?
SYWC is held annually for two weeks in June/July. The 2024 dates were June 30 to July 13. The application deadline is mid-February.
Who is eligible for SYWC and how do you apply?
The only eligibility criterion for the SYWC is that you must be currently enrolled in high school (grades 9 through 12) and be able to travel to and stay at the Sewanee campus.
Your submitted application must include:
A 250-270-word statement of purpose describing your reading and writing life and how attending SYWC will benefit your growth as a writer. You’ll also need to include how you believe your presence will contribute to the writing workshop and the conference as a whole.
A writing sample of the following lengths (you may submit and rank up to 3, based on your interests):
8-10 double-spaced pages of fiction or creative nonfiction
5-7 poems
5-7 songs (lyrics only) + details of any musical experience
A recommendation from an English teacher at your school or an instructor who is not a parent if you’re homeschooled.
How much does the SYWC cost?
The fee for the conference is $2,575, which covers all workshops, boarding, and meals. There is also a $125 deposit you’ll need to submit. Limited financial aid is available, and you are encouraged to apply early to increase your chances of receiving support.
How is SYWC structured?
SYWC mixes learning, creativity, and recreation in its curriculum. It offers five specialized courses:
Fiction
Poetry
Literary nonfiction
Songwriting
Fantasy, Science Fiction, Fabulism: Short Fiction through a Fantastic Lens
Each day includes small-batch intensive workshops in fiction, poetry, songwriting, and literary nonfiction, where you engage in writing exercises, critique sessions, and collaborative projects. Workshops are kept small, with no more than twelve students each, ensuring personalized attention and meaningful interaction with the instructors. These instructors are professional musicians, writers, scholars, researchers, poets, and published playwrights – all proven experts in their fields with plenty of instruction and insight.
Beyond the workshops, you’ll also have the opportunity to benefit from guest lectures and readings by renowned visiting authors who are already well-established writers in their respective fields. And, of course, there are plenty of social activities like hiking, karaoke, and campus tours to round out your conference experience!
What are the pros and cons of the program?
Pros:
You join a selective program: SYWC accepts just 80 students annually from thousands of entries. The program received over 5,700 entries in 2023, making it highly sought after. Being accepted would make your profile stand out and highlight your literary capabilities.
You undertake experiential and practical learning: The structure of the conference ensures that you will hone your skills through practice and guidance by seasoned professionals. This form of pedagogy exposes you to different approaches and ideas, letting you create and build your style.
You will have useful networking opportunities: The SYWC faculty and guest lecturers are talented, noted, and well-recognized authors, songwriters, and playwrights. Thanks to the small batch sizes, you’ll have many opportunities to connect with them and strengthen your network.
You improve your writing in an inspirational setting: Inspiration is key in creative fields like writing songs and stories. The Sewanee campus is set amidst nature and you will be surrounded by talented peers and esteemed faculty who will help nurture your craft.
Cons:
The program is expensive: SYWC costs $2,575, which can be a barrier for talented students without financial support. Scholarship is available, but limited
The program is short: While SYWC is undeniably a good learning experience, its duration (only two weeks) could limit how much you gain
Our review — what do we think of the program?
The Sewanee Young Writers' Conference is a worthwhile opportunity for high school students serious about writing. It offers a competitive and comprehensive program that not only enhances writing skills across several genres and professions but also prepares you for your professional literary career. If you are dedicated to writing and eager to push your limits in a supportive and stimulating environment, the SYWC is definitely worth applying to. However, it’s important to note that the program is expensive, and limited financial aid is available.
One other option - the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you want to apply your literary skills in the field of research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.