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“The intensive writing community was unique, inspiring, and refreshing. . . the air was saturated with inspiration.” —’09 participant
“It was an excellent writing experience that I would recommend to any young writer who wishes to kick off their summer with inspiration.” —'08 participant
Location
Located in the beautiful Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, the Institute carries on New England’s profound literary tradition and contributes to its vibrant contemporary culture.
Amherst, famously the hometown of poet Emily Dickinson, boasts many great restaurants, cafés, and bookstores. It is also a convenient base from which to visit a variety of college campuses in the Northeast. There are five colleges in the Amherst area—Amherst, Smith, Hampshire, Mt. Holyoke, and the University of Massachusetts—each of which offers a unique intellectual and social environment, and many more colleges and universities are within driving distance. Students will have an option to visit schools during the seminar, and parents interested in visiting schools in the region may find it convenient to take a side-trip before or after the institute.
Housing
Institute tuition does not include housing costs. Most students choose to stay in a designated University dorm. Dorms are staffed with 24-hour UMass Residential Life personnel. In addition, Juniper Institute Program Assistants provide general advising, support, and residential life activities. An 11PM curfew is strictly enforced. Dorm room fees are $25 per night.
Upon acceptance, applicants receive information about how to reserve a spot in the dorm. Although most participants stay in the dorm, it is also possible to stay elsewhere, including with local friends or family.
Meals
Participants eat meals together in a designated dining hall on campus. Dining halls provide a variety of options (including vegetarian) for each meal.
Daily Schedule
The Institute’s schedule tends to be quite full, but there is also time for writing, reflection, and relaxation. Please note that the Juniper Institute provides supervision during scheduled Institute activities only. Dorm life is described above.
 “I felt the creative energy pulsing through me constantly. To be around people who understand your craft is a strange, foreign, and wonderful thing.” —’09 participant |
