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Teen Writers Fellowship

Our 2021 Fellows at the Hampton Roads Writers Conference.
Our 2021 Fellows at the Hampton Roads Writers Conference.

“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

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 that 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, publishing industry education, and free attendance to the Christopher Newport Writers Conference where they meet with professional literary agents to discuss their projects and ask questions about the industry. Over the summer session, fellows learn how to submit their work through a required submission to Musings, our student-led teen zine. A limited number of fellow spots (8) are available.

The Teen Writers Fellowship is tuition-free, but is valued at $2,350 per student for the instruction, classes, feedback, mentorship, administration fees, & supplies. As far as we know it is the first of its kind in Hampton Roads, and one of the leading programs nationwide. It is an opportunity for any 10th or 11th grader to develop their craft, gain professional skills, & experience an engaging literary community.

Apply for the Fellowship: APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN NOVEMBER 18- JANUARY 9

Eligibility

The fellowship is open to teens living in Hampton Roads who are high school sophomores and juniors, especially students considering a major in English or Creative Writing.

Application Requirements

The application includes a personal statement and writing samples. The application deadline is Tuesday, January 9, 2024. Applicants will be contacted with results by January 31, 2024.

Free to Apply

Transportation assistance is available to The Muse Writers Center for in-person classes & fellowship events.

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 which must be the Fellowship Class reading. (1 Fellowship reading + 2 Teen Class Readings.)
  • Turn in assignments as requested, on time 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 via email in a timely manner 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 & surveys requested from teachers and Muse administrative staff.
  • Engage in their writing community via 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 or funnel parent concerns to Muse administration for clarification.
  • Attend the CNU Writers Conference and gain written permission to attend from parent/guardian.
  • Submit to the Teen Zine Musings.
  • Consider pitching their work to agents at the CNU Conference.

Apply now! Our program is competitive!

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