Thanks @DiotimaDM I’ll look into reading the anthology and figuring out more of what the competition is like! Also, @mathmom I will look into the workshop. It sounds like a great opportunity. Thanks!
Look into the Sewanee Young Writers Conference, as well as the college. Sewanee places heavy emphasis on writing and has a fabulous English department. It is also home to The Sewanee Review, the oldest continuously published literary journal in the country.
You didn’t mention your financial situation, but many schools on the “best schools for writers” lists provide generous financial aid. Some also offer merit scholarships.
Good luck with your writing endeavors!
Susquehanna University.
Washington College.