Teen Writers Fellowship
“I heard over 30 pitches at a conference and the fellows involved in this program were the most professional, most creative, and most prepared. They asked brilliant questions and were able to answer tough questions about their projects, something many of the adults pitching had some trouble with. Meeting with them was the highlight of the conference. I cannot wait to get their manuscripts in my inbox! I wish there were programs like this across the country.”
—Caitie Flum, agent at Liza Dawson Associates in New York
"I found the teens from the Muse Writers Center to be some of the most well-prepared people who pitched to me all weekend. They were poised beyond their years, and came into the event with a wealth of professionalism that belied their youth. They got a great foundation in how to comport themselves professionally, and they were all solid, grounded, professional writers. I would be happy to work with any of them."
—John Hartness, publisher at Falstaff Books
The Muse Teen Writers Fellowship is a unique mentorship program for sophomore and junior high school writers in the Hampton Roads area. Every year, we select eight talented writers who are passionate about expanding the craft of their creative writing. This competitive program provides teens with the opportunity to further their skills through mentorship, craft classes, public readings, and MFA-style workshops at the Muse Writers Center. Selected fellows receive:
- One-on-one mentorship from a professionally published writer
- Advanced craft classes and workshops
- Publishing industry education
- Free 10-minute meeting with professional literary agents or editors to discuss their projects and ask questions about the industry.
- Guidance on submitting their work, including a required submission to Musings, our student-led Teen Zine.
- Free attendance to the 2026 Muse Writers Conference
A limited number of fellow spots (8) are available.
The Teen Writers Fellowship is tuition-free, but is valued at more than $7,500 per student for the instruction, classes, feedback, mentorship, administrative fees, and supplies. It is the first program of its kind in Hampton Roads, and one of the leading teen programs nationwide. It is an opportunity for any 10th or 11th grader to develop their craft, gain professional skills, and experience an engaging literary community.
Apply for the Fellowship: APPLICATIONS FOR 2026 will open November 19, 2025 through Janurary 9, 2026!
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to teens living in Hampton Roads who are high school sophomores and juniors, including students considering a future major in English or Creative Writing, or students interested in future publication.
Application Requirements
The application includes a personal statement and writing samples.
The application deadline is Friday, January 9, 2026.
Applicants will be contacted with results by February 6, 2026.
Free to Apply
All class costs are covered, including lunch at the conference. Transportation assistance is available for in-person only classes and fellowship events at The Muse Writers Center and The Muse Writers Conference. Most classes and events are hybrid, and can be attended online or in-person.
Fellowship Requirements
Students will be required to:
- Attend Fellowship classes and Saturday Teen Classes (4 absences allowed for total program).
- Read at 2 of 3 readings, one of which must be the Fellowship Class reading. (1 Fellowship reading + 2 Teen Class Readings.)
- Turn in assignments on time, as requested, to their teachers.
- Complete a final Fellowship Project, a professional-level pitch package built around the Fellows' creative work.
- Provide notice of absences to their lead teachers.
- Reply promptly via email with teachers, administrative staff, and mentors.
- Communicate via email only with their mentors, no texting.
- Meet 4 times with mentors via an approved method provided to each mentor.
- Sign a media release for photos, video, or podcast recordings used to promote The Muse.
- Complete all feedback forms and surveys requested from teachers and Muse administrative staff.
- Engage in their writing community through participation, providing feedback to other students, and by making their voice heard in their own way.
- Make up missed classes by volunteering with The Muse for 2.5 hours per class missed.
- Communicate with parents/guardians or funnel parent/guardian concerns to Muse administration for clarification.
- Attend the Muse Writers Conference on August 29/30, 2026, which includes a pitch session with a literary agent or editor.
- Submit to the Teen Zine Musings.