Independent Study

Cultural Currents: Exploring NYC and Beyond (Summer 2026)

This Journey invites participants to dive into the rich cultural arts scene of NYC and other vibrant cities through theater, dance, and visual art. Experience diverse artistic venues and gain insight into how culture shapes creative expression. Engage with different art forms to deepen your appreciation and inspire your own storytelling and creativity.

College Prep: Crafting Your Personal Statement (Summer 2026)

This Journey guides you through the process of writing a compelling personal statement for college applications. You’ll learn how to articulate your unique experiences, values, and goals in a clear and authentic way. Through workshops, drafts, and personalized feedback, you’ll build confidence and skills to present your best self to admissions committees.

Bridging Voices: Storytelling Across Generations (Summer 2026)

This Journey explores the rich tradition of storytelling between generations, highlighting how stories connect past, present, and future. Participants will engage with personal and cultural narratives shared across age groups, learning to honor diverse perspectives. Through writing and creative expression, you’ll develop skills to preserve and share meaningful stories that build understanding and community.

IV Steward: Cultivating Collective Power (Summer 2026)

IV Steward: Cultivating Collective Power (Spring 2026)

Careers for Creatives: Unexpected Opportunities (Spring 2026)

This Journey explores diverse and unconventional career paths available to creative thinkers beyond traditional roles. Participants will discover how to leverage their creative skills in various industries and learn about emerging opportunities that value innovation and originality. Through guest talks, workshops, and practical exercises, you’ll gain insights to navigate and shape your unique career journey.

The Power of Punchlines: Stand-Up Comedy for Change (Summer 2026)

In this Journey, participants will explore the power of comedy as a tool for social change, with a special focus on stand-up comedy. From climate change and economic inequality to LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and mental health, you’ll learn how to write and perform material that blends humor with meaningful social critique. Through workshops and performance coaching, you’ll develop your own comedic voice. Discover how satire and personal storytelling can raise awareness, inspire dialogue, and challenge the status quo— all while keeping your audience laughing. By the end of the Journey, you’ll have developed a 5 -10-minute stand-up routine that not only entertains but sparks meaningful conversations about the world around us. Comedy is a form of intelligence, whether you’re new to comedy or a seasoned performer, this Journey will help you use humor as a force for social impact.

The Power of Punchlines: Stand-Up Comedy for Change (Spring 2026)

In this Journey, participants will explore the power of comedy as a tool for social change, with a special focus on stand-up comedy. From climate change and economic inequality to LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and mental health, you’ll learn how to write and perform material that blends humor with meaningful social critique. Through workshops and performance coaching, you’ll develop your own comedic voice. Discover how satire and personal storytelling can raise awareness, inspire dialogue, and challenge the status quo— all while keeping your audience laughing. By the end of the journey, you’ll have developed a 5 -10-minute stand-up routine that not only entertains but sparks meaningful conversations about the world around us. Comedy is a form of intelligence, whether you’re new to comedy or a seasoned performer, this journey will help you use humor as a force for social impact.

Lead Community Change (Spring 2026)

Lead Community Change is a dynamic two-Cycle journey that harnesses the transformative power of storytelling to drive social impact. Aspiring young leaders and activists will unleash their creativity to develop and implement innovative community-based social activism projects, supported by Girls Write Now’s rich storytelling resources. This personalized journey empowers participants to bring their visions to life, inspiring meaningful change tailored to the unique needs of their communities.

Perspectives on Editorial (Spring 2026)

Embrace editing as an essential aspect of writing in this journey that leads you through lessons and experiences that explore everything from line edits and grammar to the psychology of revision. Great for individuals who are interested in honing their skills for editing their own creative work (and the work of others!)