UNC Asheville Pre-College Prgm: Great Smokies Young Writers Workshop-Developing Voice in Fiction & Nature-Based Poetry

The UNC Asheville Pre-College Program: Great Smokies Young Writers Workshop is a week-long residential camp designed for high school students eager to refine their creative writing skills. Held from June 23–28, 2024, this immersive workshop offers two specialized tracks: Developing Voice in Fiction and Nature-Based Poetry. Open to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, the program provides an enriching blend of college-level instruction and hands-on writing practice. Program Highlights Developing Voice in Fiction: This course delves into the concept of "voice" in storytelling. Students explore how to craft distinct authorial and character voices while maintaining a cohesive narrative style. Through analyzing examples from fiction and drama, participants develop their own voices, culminating in 5–8 pages of polished prose. Feedback from instructors and peers helps refine their work. Nature-Based Poetry: In this workshop, participants learn to incorporate nature into their poetry. Guided by prompts and inspired by readings from poets like Mary Oliver and Eric Nelson, students use their senses to craft vivid language that captures the natural world. The focus is on observing specific plants or animals and translating those observations into compelling poetry. What’s Included Daily workshops led by experienced authors and poets Peer critiques in a collaborative setting Lodging in campus residence halls Meals in the campus dining hall Excursions and activities All course materials Scholarship Opportunities The program offers financial aid through the Cori Gross Scholarship, which covers full tuition ($1,430). Applicants must submit a short essay detailing their goals for the workshop and a writing sample (up to 10 pages). Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate financial need or would otherwise be unable to attend. Why Attend? This workshop is perfect for young writers looking to hone their craft while experiencing university life. Participants will generate new work, revise pieces in progress, and build connections with peers who share their passion for writing. Whether focusing on fiction or poetry, students leave with enhanced skills, fresh inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for storytelling. For high schoolers ready to immerse themselves in the art of writing, this program offers an unforgettable experience that fosters creativity, growth, and community.