Writing Your Way Into College:
The Art and Strategy of College Essays
Program Description:
Eager to engage in a writing process to jump start your college essay writing?
Learn strategies to clarify your message and help your voice and identity shine. You’ll read exemplar essays, learn about the potential for your writing to support your application, and get 1:1 coaching from expert writing teachers.
What You’ll Learn
- In-depth analysis of writing prompts and tasks
- In process strategies to hone your writing
- How to develop ideas and engage readers, while working within task specifications
- Strategies to bring your personal voice to the forefront of your essay writing
Activities and Projects
- Mentor Text Study: Analyze exemplar texts to support greater understanding of various forms of lite
- Draft of Personal Statement: Receive feedback from our teaching team that moves your essay forward towards a final product ready for your applications
- Practice with Supplemental Questions: Understand the role of the supplemental questions in your college applications and receive support making the most of these additional opportunities to let your personal voice, interests, and experiences shine
Real-World Connections
- Develop a greater understanding of writing process and your personal strengths
- Practice transferable literacy skills to support current and future academic pursuits
- Bring a critical perspective to evaluating writing tasks and products
Skills You’ll Build
- Evidence based conversational and writing skills
- Expertise in writing process – moving from idea generation to polished texts
- Understanding of giving and receiving feedback as a tool for growth and success
Hear from the program instructor
Dates: This program can be taken over the course of one or two weeks. Select the option that works for your schedule.
- Week 1: July 12 - 15, 2027
- Week 2: July 19 - 22, 2027
- Both weeks : July 12 - 22, 2027
Times: 4:30pm - 6:30pm ET Monday through Thursday
Location: In-person at Teachers College
Price:
- One Week Options: $695
- Two Week Option: $1,390
Please Note: Space is limited to ensure personalized attention for every student. Students should expect a minimum of eight hours of independent work per week.
Questions: Email tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu
Learning Objectives
- In-depth analysis of writing prompts and tasks
- In process strategies to hone your writing
- How to develop ideas and engage readers, while working within task specifications
- Strategies to bring your personal voice to the forefront of your essay writing
Who Should Attend
This program is designed for motivated high school students who are:
- Ready to invest time and energy in their college application essays
- Eager to receive constructive feedback and coaching
- Interested in developing their writing skills beyond the classroom
- Committed to putting their best foot forward in the college admissions process
This introductory course is designed for interested high school students and no prerequisites required, just a willingness to write, revise, and grow.
Please Note: TC Pre-College courses are open to students ages 14-17. All courses are conducted in English and learners should have sufficient fluency to participate.
Upon Completion
Participants who successfully complete this program will earn a verified Certificate of Participation and an official Digital Badge—valuable credentials that can be shared on LinkedIn or digital portfolios.
View our sample program badge and certificate below:
