YoungArts Fiction Writing Workshop
About the Competition
YoungArts is one of the most prestigious arts competitions in the United States for high school students (grades 10–12). It recognizes exceptional young artists across ten disciplines, including creative writing, and provides opportunities for national awards, scholarships, mentorships, and access to an elite artistic network.
Within the Creative Writing category, students can submit work in fiction, poetry, playwriting, and creative nonfiction. This workshop focuses specifically on fiction writing, preparing students to submit short stories that demonstrate voice, originality, technical skill, and artistic vision.
Who Can Apply
-
U.S. citizens or permanent residents
-
Students in grades 10–12 (usually ages 15–18)
-
Applications typically open in June and close in October
Why YoungArts Matters
-
Winners receive monetary awards, national recognition, and may qualify as U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts
-
Finalists attend National YoungArts Week for masterclasses, readings, and networking with professional writers
-
Alumni include Tarell Alvin McCraney (Moonlight), Viola Davis, Nicki Minaj, and many other notable creators
About the Workshop
In this workshop, students will:
-
Study award-winning short fiction from past YoungArts writers
-
Learn narrative technique, voice development, and literary craft
-
Write and revise original short stories suitable for submission
-
Receive personalized feedback and mentorship from expert instructors
This course is ideal for serious young writers ready to build a polished submission and grow in artistic depth and confidence.
📎 Official site: youngarts.org
Fiction Writing – Short Story & Flash Fiction
In this fiction writing module, students will study award-winning short stories and develop their own original pieces for Scholastic’s Flash Fiction and Short Story categories.
The focus is on voice, narrative structure, character development, and emotional impact.
Includes guided revisions and peer workshops.
Learning Outcome: One original short story suitable for Scholastic submission
Recommended Grades: 7–12, with prior experience in English writing
Course Duration: 6 weeks
Journalism – Feature & Profile Writing
This module trains students to write journalistic pieces with clarity, accuracy, and style.
Students will explore real-world topics, conduct interviews or research, and write compelling features or profiles suitable for Scholastic’s Journalism category.
Emphasis on ethics, structure, and storytelling.
Learning Outcome: One complete and polished journalistic article
Recommended Grades: 7–12, ideal for students interested in social issues
Course Duration: 6 weeks
Personal Essay & Commentary
This module guides students through writing reflective and opinion-based pieces.
Ideal for Scholastic’s Personal Essay & Commentary category, students will learn how to express their identity, beliefs, or cultural insights with authenticity, structure, and impact.
Learning Outcome: One structured and insightful personal essay or commentary
Recommended Grades: 7–12, ideal for students eager to express their voice
Course Duration: 6 weeks
Let’s Work Together
Get in touch so we can start working together.
