High School: Non-Fiction Writing Academy

Course Description: High School: Non-Fiction Writing Academy

Creative Non-Fiction Writing Course with Larry Olmsted

Unlock the power of storytelling with our Creative Non-Fiction Writing Course, led by the acclaimed New York Times bestselling author and award-winning journalist, Larry Olmsted. This dynamic program invites high school students to explore one of today’s most captivating and versatile genres—a genre that masterfully combines the emotional depth of fiction with the factual integrity of journalism. Through the art of personal narrative, travel writing, memoir, literary journalism, and profile pieces, students will learn to transform real-life experiences into compelling, meaningful stories.

Guided by Olmsted’s extensive professional writing experience, including contributions to The New York Times, Outside, and Forbes, students will receive expert mentorship in honing their voice, structuring narratives, and writing with clarity and authenticity. Whether crafting a college admissions essay or a feature article, participants will emerge from this course with enhanced confidence, creativity, and a sense of purpose in their writing.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Expert Guidance: Learn from Larry Olmsted, a seasoned journalist and bestselling author.

• Skill Development: Master the key elements of creative non-fiction, including voice, narrative arc, and character development.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Develop a polished piece of writing suitable for publication or college applications.

• Real-World Experience: Engage in practical assignments and workshops that mirror professional writing environments.

• Networking Opportunities: Interact with guest writers and editors to explore careers in writing, journalism, and publishing.

Location

Nestled within the inspiring setting of Dartmouth College, students will have the unique opportunity to engage in campus-based field writing. This vibrant environment offers a rich tapestry of real-life scenes and settings, perfect for sharpening reportage skills and immersing students in the art of observation.

Course Description

Creative Non-Fiction Writing Program

• Interactive Learning: Participate in small-group writing workshops to receive constructive feedback and enhance revision skills.

• Real-World Writing Assignments: Complete short assignments inspired by real-world non-fiction formats, from profile writing to memoir vignettes.

• Guest Speaker Q&A: Engage with guest writers and editors to gain insights into the world of writing, journalism, and publishing.

• Campus-Based Field Writing: Experience hands-on learning by observing and writing about real-life scenes around the Dartmouth campus.

Admission Criteria

• A passion for writing is essential for success in this program.

• A recommended GPA of 3.5 or above in related fields.

• Completion of the Summer Discovery application, including thoughtful responses to short-answer questions.

Who Should Attend

This course is perfect for aspiring writers and truth-seekers eager to embark on their literary journey. Ideal participants are high school students who love storytelling, wish to refine their writing for college essays or student publications, or are curious about transforming life into literature.

Benefits

Upon completing this university-level course, students will gain valuable documentation that recognizes their summer achievements, including:

• Branded Course Completion Certificate: A testament to your successful participation in the Dartmouth Summer Scholars program.

• Letter of Recognition: Acknowledgment from Summer Discovery for your academic achievement in this course.

Embark on a transformative writing adventure and let your stories come to life with the Creative Non-Fiction Writing Course at Dartmouth. Your journey into the world of storytelling begins here.