● Available workshops
Summer 2026
Students will read, write, and discuss writing in a supportive workshop environment limited to 10 students. Each week includes free writing, discussion, and creative exercises designed to develop both craft and confidence. Together, we'll explore four key themes—observation, voice, place, and character—before spending our final two weeks workshopping and revising original pieces.
● Overview
What you’ll learn
Each week, students will read and discuss the work of established writers, respond to creative prompts through free writing, and develop original pieces of their own. Together, we'll explore four themes that form the foundation of strong writing while building a supportive creative community.
6-Weeks
Wednesdays
Starts July 22
Week 1: Paying Attention
Great writing begins with paying attention. Students will explore observation, curiosity, and notebook-keeping while learning how writers transform everyday details into stories.
Week 2: Voice
What makes writing distinctive? What makes it sound like you? Through reading and writing exercises, students will experiment with style, tone, and perspective as they begin to develop a stronger sense of voice.
Week 3: Place
Writers are shaped by the places they inhabit. Students will explore how setting, sensory detail, and memory can bring a piece of writing to life.
Week 4: Character
The people around us are often the source of our best stories. Students will practice writing vivid portraits, exploring relationships, and bringing characters to life on the page.
Week 5: Workshopping
Writing thrives in community. Students will share original work, learn how to give and receive thoughtful feedback, and discover how discussion can deepen a piece of writing.
Week 6: Revision
Revision is where writing grows. Students will refine their work, reflect on their progress, and celebrate the session with a final reading of original pieces.
● About
Meet the Instructors
Jenna Shapiro
Jenna is a New York-based writer. She holds a B.A. in English from Stanford University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from NYU. By day, she’s a Senior Content Strategist at JPMorgan.
Founding INSTRUCTOR● FAQ
Frequently asked questions
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We meet promptly at 6 P.M. every week at the Friedel Memorial Drinking Fountain, located at the Central Park entrance at East 90th & 5th Avenue. (From there, the group will wander into the park.)
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Rising 9th, 10th, 11, and 12th graders.
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Nope! One of the purposes of this workshop is to expose young writers to the study and craft of creative writing, which isn’t always available in high school.
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Also nope! However, Jenna is happy to candidly answer any questions about her English major, M.F.A. experience, and insights into the pursuit of writing.
● Contact