Welcome.

The Muse Youth Program believes that power, healing, and change happen when creative writing meets community and inspiration. By offering young minds creative writing classes, mentorship programs, and community events, we welcome young writers to explore and develop their unique voices, improve their craft, and pursue professional opportunities in the literary world. We hope to foster a nurturing environment where writers of all stripes come together, share ideas, and experience the power that words can hold. 

Creative Writing Classes for Kids & Teens 

2025 Summer Session:

The Young Writers Workshop (Elementary Students)

Creative Writing Exploration for Middle School Youth

Creative Writing Exploration for High School Teens

2025 College Essay Prep Classes

College Application Essay Prep Course

College Application Essay Workshop

 

 Creative Writing Summer Camps

Creative Writing Summer Camp for Elementary School

Creative Writing Summer Camp for Middle School

 

2025 Teen Writers Fellowship

This program is open to any sophomore or junior high school student local to the Hampton Roads area. Those selected have access to free creative writing classes and mentorship from professional writers. Applications are OPEN until JANUARY 18 for the 2025 Fellowship!

Teen Zine Musings: SUBMISSIONS ARE OPEN!

The Muse Writers Center offers our teen students the opportunity to submit to our in-house zine, Musings. Currently, submissions are OPEN for the 2025 Teen Zine: Common Unity!

Submit to the Teen Zine Here!

If you'd like to support this program, please Donate to the Youth Program and receive a copy of MUSINGS!

Muse Opportunities

Internships

We offer a number of opportunities for students to receive hands-on experience with us, one of the nation's largest literary centers. Applications for the 2025 Teen Zine editorial team will open in January 2025.

Teen Open Mic Nights & Events

We regularly host teen readings and open mic nights, both virtual and in person.  If you have any questions or are interested in co-hosting a youth event or co-sponsorships, please contact our Youth Program Director Jessica Grace Kelley at jessica@the-muse.org.