Do you have a personal story to tell?

Join a group of 12 young people who will explore issues of loss and resilience as part of Youth Communication’s 44th annual summer writing workshop!

We have two publications: YouthComm, a magazine for teens; and Represent, our publication by and for youth in foster care.

Learn the techniques of narrative nonfiction and interviewing and participate in writing lessons, discussions, and group activities. Write stories that will help other young people dealing with loss.

Our newsroom is a safe space for open conversations. Guest speakers and field trips will deepen our understanding of these topics. No prior writing experience is required, but you must be able to attend every day for all six weeks. Your stories will be published on our website and may appear in Youth Communication’s curricula and in other outlets. The skills you acquire in the workshop and the recognition you receive for publication can make you a more attractive candidate for colleges and employers. Our alumni regularly gain admission and scholarships to colleges in New York and across the country. 

Unless there is another major Covid outbreak, the workshop will be held in person at our midtown office on West 38th Street. All participants receive a $2,000 stipend for full attendance and completing one or more stories in the workshop. The stipend will be paid in three installments: at the end of the 2nd, 4th, and 6th weeks of the workshop. All participants, regardless of documentation status, can receive the stipend. Participants will also be provided a daily two-trip MetroCard unless we have to switch to a remote workshop.

All writers must submit proof of an initial Covid vaccination and a booster.  

Dates: Wednesday, July 5 to Thursday, August 10. We meet Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., except the first week, when we will meet Wednesday to Friday. 

For New York City youth ages 15-20

Application deadline: Friday, May 19, 2023

HOW TO APPLY:

ONLINE BY MAY 19 (submit application below)

Or, MAIL BY MAY 19 to: Youth Communication, Summer Writing Workshop 242 West 38th St., 6th floor, New York, NY 10018

We will respond to all applicants by June 7. Note: Previous and current YC writers are not eligible to apply.  

Summer 2023 application deadline: Friday, May 19.

Applicants will be notified by Wednesday, June 7, 2023.