CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP

Become a “Summer Trojan” and earn college credit.

This workshop is designed for those with little or no experience in creative writing but eager to give it a try! During our four weeks together, we’ll fully immerse ourselves in the art and craft of creative writing, working collaboratively and doing activities designed to ignite our imaginations. Each week will offer the opportunity to experiment with four genres: the personal essay (also known as the “college application essay”), creative nonfiction, flash fiction, and the short story, respectively. In the process, we’ll learn about the literary techniques of accomplished writers, learn to “read like a writer” and “write like a reader,” and even take a field trip or two to find our inspiration in the city of Los Angeles. You’ll also receive constructive feedback from peers and your instructors to help you to discover your own writing voice. Let’s write!

PROGRAM DATES
June 16 – July 13, 2024

PREREQUISITES
None

RECOMMENDED
International students who are non-native English speakers need meet the program’s English Requirement

DAILY SCHEDULE & ACTIVITIES
MONDAY – FRIDAY
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Classes in session
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Classes in session

COURSE OVERVIEW

Highlights

  • Produce a portfolio of your own work, including a polished personal essay suitable for college applications
  • Meet other writers and share your work in a collaborative workshop environment
  • Learn the benefits of revision and see the evolution of your writing
  • Take creativity-inspiring field trips to artistic venues in L.A.
  • Gain skills and craft approaches you can carry into your future writing life

Topic of Study

  • Personal essay
  • Creative nonfiction
  • Flash fiction
  • Short story
  • Literary techniques of accomplished authors

HEAR FROM OUR FORMER STUDENTS

I loved the writers’ workshops where we get to work with our peers, especially . It was awkward at first but then we got to learn from each other, helping each other to the fullest potential.
Zoe C.
California
USC Summer Program 2021