“Writing takes time, and with help you can make it better” – Adelis S., High School of Fashion Industries student and Personal Statement Weekend participant.

The link between strong writing skills and future success is rarely more salient than during the college essay writing process, and this month 826NYC volunteers supported over 120 high school seniors as they crafted their personal statements.

Whether students were just starting their essays, almost finished, or somewhere in between, volunteers helped them showcase their unique voices and experiences. These experiences included moments of triumph and feelings of loss, stories of refuge and explorations of home.

Whatever their topic, each student participant felt more confident about their personal statement after working with a tutor, and every one noted feeling that their tutor cared about their success in school. Many students have opted to continue working with their tutors after the event, receiving ongoing support polishing their statements and supplemental essays.

This program would not be possible without the support of the teachers and counselors we partnered with at the High School of Fashion Industries and Bronx Leadership Academy II. Check out some of their other work with 826NYC here and here.

Finally, many thanks to Hachette Book Group, Kikkerland, Capital One, and S’well Bottle. Their generosity enables 826NYC’s programs to have a lasting impact in the lives of students during Personal Statement Weekend and beyond.