Back to All Events

Writing Authentic College Essays in the ChatGPT Era

In this interactive workshop, high school seniors will learn how to brainstorm, develop and write compelling college admissions essays that reflect who they are — in their own voice.

Each student will also receive a list of editing tips for refining their future drafts.

Students will learn how to:

  • Identify meaningful essay topics

  • Avoid common college essay clichés

  • Develop a compelling personal narrative

  • Write with greater specificity and voice

  • Revise drafts more effectively

Elizabeth Held is a Washington-based journalist and editor whose work has appeared in USA Today, Slate, Time, and Vulture. Her first book will be released with HarperCollins in 2028. Through Capitol Hill College Consulting, she helps students develop authentic college application essays through collaborative brainstorming and editorial guidance.

Workshop
$125.00

Participation in the full workshop, including brainstorming exercises, discussion, and Q&A.

Workshop + Individual Consultation
$300.00

Includes workshop admission plus a 60-minute one-on-one session that can be used for:

  • personalized brainstorming and topic development

  • or in-depth feedback on a draft essay