As a creative writing major, you will receive accelerated, individualized, graduate-level instruction that will put you leaps and bounds beyond the typical high school writer in terms of technique, versatility, and vocational know-how. 

• Craft an exciting body of work in diverse literary genres
• Develop an in-depth understanding of craft terminology and stylistic techniques
• Engage in professionalization opportunities, such as preparing portfolios for national high school creative writing contests and literary publications, interviewing visiting writers about their career paths, and attending workshops
• Collaborate in interdisciplinary contexts with artists from other majors on campus

Our faculty will provide personalized mentorship within an intensive but nurturing workshop environment. Interlochen instructors include novelists, poets, playwrights, and screenwriters, including Brittany Cavallaro, a New York Times bestselling author of young adult novels including the Charlotte Holmes series. 

At Interlochen, you’ll deepen your craft and prepare for your future as a writer and active participant in the literary scene.

An example of a program schedule, including activities, lessons, free time, etc. 

Artistic and academic courses are weaved throughout an Arts Academy student’s day.  Our co-curricular approach emphasizes the connection between art and academics, encouraging students to think critically and creatively about problems in the classroom and beyond. 

Athletics offered: Basketball, volleyball, cross country, and lacrosse, plus intramural competitions in ultimate frisbee, soccer, tennis, and badminton

Clubs and organizations: Black Student Union, Young Feminists Club, the Interlochen Book Club, the Student Sustainability Club, the Traditional Chinese Art Club, Model UN, Stilt Walking, and Interlochen Podcast Cooperative, among others. 

Student testimonials

Interlochen was a dream of mine for much of my childhood, and, after four years at the Academy, I love it even more than I thought possible. With an Interlochen education comes the ability to mix artistic and academic learning, a community that fosters close friendships, and a constant array of opportunities, among other things.” 

- Poppy,  ‘20, Arts Academy Creative Writing alumna

“At Interlochen, you are surrounded by a wealth of resources and people who are equally excited to be there as you are.”

 - Sabine, Arts Academy Creative Writing major

Introducing: The 2023 recipient of the Virginia Ball Creative Writng Scholarship — Lucy Lombardo, an eighth grader from Honeoye, New York! She has been selected to receive a full-tuition scholarship to attend Interlochen Arts Academy as a Creative Writing major. Check back later to hear how you can apply to win next year's scholarship!