On Day 2, students will:
Critique and analyze example essays
Finalize their essay topic
Structure the essay into subheadings
Add detail with concrete examples
Learn how to write strong opening and closing paragraphs
2026 Bootcamp Offerings
20% Off Early Bird Discount through May 1st
Monday, May 18th & Tuesday, May 19th | 5:30-8pm | South County High School
Monday, June 15th & Tuesday, June 16th | 5:30-8pm | South County High School
Monday, June 29th & Tuesday, June 30th | 1-3:30pm | Location TBD Fairfax, VA
College Essay Writing Bootcamps
Is your teenager ready to begin their college application personal statement, but isn’t sure where to start? The College Essay Writing Bootcamp is a 2-day, small-group, intensive workshop to help students write their 650-word Common App personal statement.
On Day 1, students will:
Review the common structures for writing a personal statement
Brainstorm a variety of potential essay topics
Determine their key values to convey within the essay
Begin outlining potential essay topics
“The college essay is unlike any writing most high schoolers have done before. It requires them to reflect on their own experiences and share a level of vulnerability. It doesn’t matter WHAT they write about, but HOW they share their story. It is their opportunity to give the admissions counselor a reason to cheer for them beyond just their transcript and test scores.”