We’re trying something new!
826DC is launching a new paid service to support students & families through the college essay process.
Why? Because we have expertise in helping students write a compelling & unique college essay, and we’re pretty good at working with teenagers.
We’re thrilled to open our services to more families and provide a new opportunity for our community to financially support our long-standing free programming.
Stories Don’t Write Themselves
Did you know that almost 70% of parents report that helping their child with their college application process is very highly or highly stressful for them as parents?
And 76% of students said completing a college application was more stressful than anything else they had done academically.
That’s why 826DC is excited to introduce Stories Don’t Write Themselves, a new in-person three part workshop series designed to help high school students brainstorm, write and revise their college essay. With professional instruction focused on reflective writing, students will tell their unique stories and learn the ins and outs of personal statement writing.
We help the adults stop stressing, and ensure each student shines on paper!
We are starting this new offering with a one day workshop for students who have completed a first draft on their own. With a draft in hand, this workshop will provide dedicated time to revise their writing, receive thoughtful feedback, and strengthen their essay in a supportive environment designed to help tell their story with confidence and authenticity.
What Your Teenager Can Expect
- Bring a draft you’ve already started
- Participate in a guided writers workshop led by 826DC staff
- Receive constructive feedback from peers and facilitators
- Build momentum and leave with a stronger draft
The 48 Hour Edit
Your child has written, rewritten, read, and reread their college essay.
At this point, you want a second pair of eyes on it. You’re just not sure it should be yours.
What if we told you there are writing experts who also happen to be youth development professionals? People trained to give teenagers real, constructive and actionable feedback, the kind that sharpens an essay while helping your student shine on paper. That’s exactly who’s behind 48 Hour Edit, a new service from 826DC.
Your student submits their draft, and one of our writing experts, someone who works with teen writers every day, sends back real, specific feedback within 48 hours. No session to schedule. No calendar chaos. Just expert editing, within two days, to help meet the nearing deadline.
How It Works
- Submit your student’s completed essay draft
- Receive personalized feedback within 48 hours
- Revise with confidence using actionable suggestions
No appointments. No scheduling. Just meaningful feedback on your timeline.
At 826DC, we believe every writer deserves support at every stage of the writing process. Our 48 Hour Essay Edit makes it easier than ever to receive guidance when you need it most.
Have some questions before signing up? Send your questions and request for more info to our Deputy Director Andrea Nelson at andrea@826dc.org