Writing/Reading Resources
Is the Essay Incubator For You? Alums Share Why You Should Apply Today

Thinking about applying to the Essay Incubator? With the July 16 deadline coming up fast, now’s the time to see what’s possible. This intensive program has supported a cohort of writers who’ve gone on to publish widely and win major awards. We asked recent grads to share their experience — here’s what they had to say:
"The Essay Incubator gave me the time and space, tools, and confidence to officially call myself a writer. The feedback and encouragement I received from the instructor and my peers pushed me to polish and seal my work in a way I had never been able to, resulting in thought-provoking and interesting essays that I feel represent me and that I am proud to share with others."
– Mallika Iyer, 2023-24
"Even though I am now two years out of the Incubator, I still very much miss commuting to class and seeing my cohort every week at the Seaport. Being a part of our supportive alumni community is one of the biggest joys of my writing life. I do not think I would have become the writer I am today without the excellent feedback, resources, and encouragement I received during our ten months together...If I had a time machine, I would choose to go back to the beginning of my Incubator year!"
– Thuy Phan, 2023-24
"The Essay Incubator is exactly what I needed—a focused, rigorous exploration of essays (in all their wonderful variety!). Ethan’s one of those teachers you hope for: bringing us a rich array of reading, encouraging community, and introducing us to some of the best writers and editors out there. Most importantly, he gave us generous feedback. I can honestly say that when I took his guidance my pieces often found publishing homes."
– Button, 2022-23
“The Essay Incubator was a true life-changer for me. Without a traditional writing background, I’d always wondered—how do I actually do this? This program answered that for me…and then some. I learned crucial craft and publishing industry tools. Workshopping got me comfortable sharing and revising my work. And this supportive community is second to none. I now see a path that I never thought possible!”
– Sara Schreuer, 2022-23
"The Essay Incubator showed me that not only could I publish my work, I could publish at more places and in more forms than I'd ever have discovered on my own. Besides honing craft skills, I gained a community of writers to support me in my writing journey beyond the year-long program."
– Brandy Wyant, 2021-22
Don't wait – apply today! Applications for the 2025-2026 Essay Incubator are due Wednesday, July 16th at 11:59 PM ET.
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