Apart, and yet a Part

Michael N. McGregor, MFA: writing coach
Professor, Department of English, Portland State University

Ingredients for a productive week of writing: a room with a view, meals provided, the opportunity to structure your writing time as you wish, and access to a professional writing coach. This program is designed to give participants maximum time and freedom for writing. Mornings and afternoons are yours to structure as you wish. Write, grab a continental breakfast, write, take a walk, consult with a writing tutor, write, chat with your neighbor, browse the library. Residents will gather in the late afternoon for a reception, common meal, and informal evening sessions which may include conversations about publishing, meeting with local artists, and visits to the Saint John’s Abbey Church and the Saint John’s Bible—the first illuminated Bible in 500 years. The program is open to advanced writers—essayists, historians, poets, memoirists—whose work involves matters of faith and the Christian life, and aims to reach a broad reading audience.

The Collegeville Institute will cover travel expenses to and from the workshop, all workshop fees, and room and board. Those who join the workshop will be expected to reside at the Institute throughout the entire week. Participants will share apartment space, though each person will be assigned a private bedroom. The program is limited to 12 participants.

Michael N. McGregor’s coaching was essential and expert. He really helped me get a handle on some unwieldy material I’ve been struggling with. He is incredibly insightful, pastoral and committed. I’d really value another opportunity to work with his help.

–participant in “Apart, and yet a Part,” Summer 2013

Application Process:

Application deadline has passed. We are no longer accepting applications for this workshop.

Complete applications include three pieces:

1. Application form
2. Current resume or c.v.
3. Writing sample (1,000 words or less)

After the workshop concludes, each participant is encouraged to submit an original 500-word essay on a topic of his/her choice, intended for a general audience. Participants’ essays may be used as blog entries on the Collegeville Institute’s website or featured in other Collegeville Institute publications. Workshop participants should submit their essays to the Collegeville Institute within three months after the conclusion of the writing workshop.