Pre-College: Writing Your Way Into College

Dates: July 6 - 17, 2026

Schedule: Online with optional in-person sessions at Teachers College; two week program, with six group workshop sessions (three 1 hour sessions per week), as well as 1:1 coaching sessions (two 1 hour sessions per week) and an expectation of independent work each week to follow the workshops and coaching sessions. Students should expect a minimum of eight hours of work per week.

• Three 1-hour group sessions per week

• Two 1-hour individual coaching sessions per week

• An expectation of independent work between sessions

Location: In-person at Teachers College

Price: $3,995 - Application fee waived until March 1, 2026, a $75 savings Please Note: Space is limited to ensure personalized attention for every student.

For more information, questions or to register: Email tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu

Program Description:

Transform your college application from ordinary to unforgettable. Every college applicant has a story—but not everyone knows how to tell it. In this intensive two-week program, you'll master the craft of writing college essays that capture who you truly are and make admissions officers stop and take notice.

Why This Program Changes Everything Your college essay isn't just another writing assignment. It's your chance to step off the page as a three-dimensional person with passions, perspectives, and potential. This program gives you the tools, feedback, and confidence to make that happen. Your story deserves to be heard!

What makes us different? You won't just workshop your essays in a group setting. You'll receive personalized 1:1 coaching from expert writing teachers who understand what admissions officers are looking for—and how to help your authentic voice shine through.

The Program Experience

Two transformative weeks. One powerful outcome.

• Six dynamic group workshops (three per week) where you'll analyze exemplar essays, decode prompts, and learn in-process strategies from experienced writing instructors

• Four individualized coaching sessions (two per week) providing personalized feedback that moves your essay from rough draft to polished, submission-ready prose

• Flexible format: Join us online from anywhere, with optional in-person sessions at Teachers College for those who want face-to-face collaboration

• Independent work time to refine your craft between sessions—expect a minimum of 8 hours per week of focused writing and revision

What You'll Accomplish

By the end of this program, you'll have: ✓ A polished personal statement ready for your Common App or Coalition applications ✓ Practice with supplemental essays so you can confidently tackle any college's additional questions ✓ Deep understanding of what makes college essays work—from structure and voice to specificity and storytelling ✓ Proven strategies for brainstorming, drafting, and revising that you'll use throughout college and beyond ✓ Confidence in your ability to share your unique story with authenticity and impact

Master the Skills That Matter

Decode the Prompts: Learn to read between the lines and understand what each question is really asking Find Your Voice: Discover techniques to make your writing sound like you—not like every other applicant Engage Your Reader: Master storytelling strategies that keep admissions officers reading until the last word Revise with Purpose: Develop an editorial eye that transforms good drafts into exceptional essays Navigate Supplementals: Turn those short-answer questions into powerful opportunities to showcase different dimensions of your personality Investment in Your Future - Ready to write your way to college? Don't let your college essay be an afterthought. Give yourself the time, guidance, and support to create an application that truly represents who you are.

Instructor(s)

Instructors will be drawn from Teachers College Advancing Literacy.

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

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.

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. Writing samples are required as part of the application process to ensure we can provide you with the most effective support.

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.