Apply to Top Writing Programs with Confidence
Set Your Writing Goals
As summer approaches, students should reflect on what they want to accomplish over the next three months. For example, some Aralia students want to build a writing portfolio for college applications, while others want to complete a fiction novel. We always recommend that students use the SMART goal method to set a direction and start turning their summer ideas into clear, achievable action plans.
- Specific: “Write three short stories about interesting things that happened in your life.”
- Measurable: “Write at least 500 words every day about any topic.”
- Achievable: “Complete a rough draft of the writing portfolio structure this week.”
- Relevant: “Prepare a story for a writing contest.”
- Time-bound: “Submit the piece to the writing competition by August 5.”
Option 1: Follow a Self-Guided Writing Curriculum
Once students have your goals, one route they take is to follow a self-guided writing curriculum. Similar to a summer writing program, students can plan their own 6- to 8-week curriculum tailored to their goals. For example, if students want to hone their skills in writing short fiction, they can follow this structured 6-week plan:
- Week 1: Read short stories by acclaimed authors you like, analyzing how each author structures their story and builds tension. After, complete 2-3 short writing prompts inspired by what you read.
- Week 2: Study key fiction elements like character development, realistic dialogue, and the use of metaphor. Take notes and do mini exercises, such as writing a monologue for a character or rewriting a scene.
- Week 3: Start drafting your first complete short story.
- Week 4: Revise your draft through reviewing with your friends, teachers, or self-critique.
- Week 5: Apply what you’ve learned and begin writing a second short story.
- Week 6: Final edits and prepare for submission.
If students struggle to create a structure, it may be a good idea to follow an online course on a specific genre or writing skill to stay focused and consistent. Online courses offer guided lessons, assignments, and often peer interaction, making them an excellent substitute for formal summer programs. There are numerous high-quality and free courses available on platforms such as Coursera and schools’ websites.
Option 2: Submit to Writing Contests
Contests offer structure, motivation, and a sense of purpose that can be especially valuable during an unstructured summer. They give students real deadlines to work toward, which helps build discipline and time-management skills. The piece produced for the writing competition can also be added to your writing portfolio for college.
Some Outstanding Creative Writing Contests:
More competitions can be found on Aralia’s Writing Competitions for High School Students.
85% of Aralia Students Place in Top Writing Competitions
Option 3: Get Guidance Through Online Prep Classes
If you’re looking for feedback from experienced writers or want a more structured path, online writing prep courses or mentorships are a flexible, affordable alternative to formal programs.
At Aralia Education, students can:
- Take writing classes in fiction, poetry, journalism, or personal essays.
- Work 1-on-1 with experienced instructors from top schools.
- Prepare for contests like the Scholastic Awards, the NYT contests, or summer writing portfolios.
- Receive detailed, actionable feedback and build a strong writing portfolio.
🎓 Want Expert Guidance this Summer?
Explore Aralia’s writing programs designed for high school students who want to turn their passion into polished work ready for submission.
You don’t need an acceptance letter to make your summer count. With the right mindset, structure, and community, you can design a summer writing experience that’s just as meaningful! This summer, your writing journey is entirely in your hands, and the first step is putting words on the page.
Devising Competitive Applications for Summer Creative Writing Schools
Devising Competitive Applications for Summer Creative Writing Schools is designed to help high school students craft standout applications for top-tier creative writing summer schools. With expert guidance, you’ll refine your personal statement, polish your writing samples, and gain the confidence to apply with a competitive edge.
