GrubStreet is thrilled to congratulate Mel Song! The Essay Incubator graduate had her essay “Her Bitterness: A Woman’s Choice” published in The Rumpus.

We asked Mel how her time in the GrubStreet Essay Incubator influenced her accomplishment:

"The Essay Incubator helped me rediscover writing as an exploration of my relationship to the world. Ethan’s resourcefulness, patience, and professionalism, along with my cohorts’ wisdom, encouragement, and effective support, honed my craft skills and gave me the confidence to continue telling my story, continue to put those stories out there."

Are you planning to apply to the 2026–2027 Essay Incubator? The deadline August 5th!

Do you have writing news to share? Every Thursday, we spotlight accomplishments from our community in the Spreading the Love newsletter’s “Department of Congratulations.” To be featured, fill out this form. Your news may also be highlighted in a future blog post on our website!