Hey guys! I noticed that although applications are opening January 28, there doesn’t seem to be a thread for this year yet. My twin and I were both accepted in the past, and I wanted to make sure everyone has a space to discuss the application and ask questions for 2019. We were both accepted to our dream schools for college (Columbia University for me, Haverford College for her), and believe that IYWS played a role in that, in addition to it simply being an absolutely incredible opportunity for high school students and writers in general.
Also, I was considering filming a video on the components of the IYWS application (portfolio, personal statement, etc.), and how I got accepted, ft. my twin, and discussing what it’s like to actually go there. Would something like that be helpful to you guys?
I for one would love a video! I’m especially confused about my SoP, I’ve got a bit about what I want to do with my writing and like what I want to work on/hope to achieve at the program, but nothing about the pieces themselves (mostly bc idk what I want to put in yet yikes). Also, if you don’t mind me asking, what are you studying at Columbia?
@esruc1srenniw I definitely don’t mind! I’m on a gap year at the moment, but creative writing and business! Also, I’ll be reading my personal statement in the video, so hopefully that can give you some inspiration for your own.
@dreamthief001 Their financial aid is very generous
I should be getting the video up tomorrow! I’ll be sure to link it here ASAP. I’m also planning on discussing other writing camps like Interlochen and the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop, since there always tends to be a lot of overlap, so hopefully that’ll be helpful to you guys as well.
Consider a new setting as the mirror in the background is a distraction.
Also, consider condensing the content to enhance & maintain viewer interest while delivering your message in a clear & concise manner.
The TASP video would be more helpful if you briefly discussed qualification parameters & more details about the content & activities of the six week program.
It is clear that you are a communicator. Your writing is outstanding, your presence on camera is very good, but your videos seem to be “first drafts” in need of significant refinement.
The goal is to be an effective communicator. In order to be effective, you need to maintain viewer interest. In order to maintain interest, you need to present useful information in a succinct fashion. Quality, not quantity, is important.
@Publisher Thank you for the constructive criticism; I will take it under advisement. However, as this is a thread for this year’s applicants, could you please address any concerns you have with me personally in the comments section of my YouTube channel or via my email in the future? I would hate to take attention off the needs of this year’s hopefuls and their aspirations in any way. Thanks!
@Publisher Thank you so much! And I can assure you that I have actually changed my background and worked on concision; you can check out my most recent video for proof I’m definitely not some kind of experienced ~YouTuber - just want to help out in all the ways that I wished were available when I was applying.
@5toryt3ll3r Wow you’re so amazing for helping us with our application for both TASP and IWYS! Thank you so much! If possible, would you and your twin be comfortable sharing your statement of purpose and creative writing sample? If not, that’s completely fine
Hey guys! You’re so welcome - it’s my pleasure! I had some technical difficulties with getting the video up, but it turned out for the best because my sister came home and filmed with me, so when I put it up (it will be up tomorrow 100% for sure, and I’ll be reading my statement of purpose in it), you’ll be getting both our perspectives!
@iloveanime123 It is a fairly competitive program - they don’t really publish the statistics openly, but they are selective in that they’re really looking for applicants who not only have a flair for writing, but who really show passion and a desire to attend Iowa in particular. There are definitely ways to boost your chances of being accepted, even beyond the portfolio itself.
@insidewires I was in my junior year, so 17! It was my first time hearing about it. I wish that I had known more about summer programs and all those kinds of opportunities in the earlier years of high school or even in middle school, which is why I want to make sure that as many of you guys as possible can learn about them, even if I couldn’t.
Thanks! Also what are some reasons I could give for IYWS (in particular)?? Again thank you so much for making this thread I’m freaking out over applications
Personally I want to go because of the opportunities to meet like-minded people and that from what I’ve read IYWS lets you write honestly and creatively (about real issues that affect you, such as traumatic experiences and privilege or lack thereof). I’m just curious – why do you guys want to go to IYWS?
The video is up! https://youtu.be/6nxoYS3vJsM@random72 I read my personal statement in there I also discussed the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop since I’ve noticed there tends to be a lot of overlap with the people who apply to Iowa, so hopefully that can help you guys kill two birds with one stone!
@insidewires I’m always happy to read and critique your and anyone else’s portfolios and personal statements; just PM or email me
I also discussed the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop since I’ve noticed there tends to be a lot of overlap with the people who apply to Iowa, so hopefully that can help you guys kill two birds with one stone!