Free College Essay Workshop for High School Students

Your teen keeps saying, “I don’t know what to write.”

Bring them to this free, hands-on workshop. I will help your teen find a personal story worth telling, start the first page, and understand how to adapt that story for scholarship essays.

Your teen does not need to arrive with a topic or a draft. We will begin together.

Your family will also receive:

• A simple fall college-money plan
• Vetted local scholarship opportunities
• Free early access to Scholarship Scout

Who should attend?

This workshop is best for students in grades 11–12. Parents are encouraged to attend with their teens because they often remember meaningful moments their teens have overlooked.

Sunday, September 20, 2026
2:30–4:00 PM Eastern

Attend in person

Lakewood Ranch Branch Library
16410 Rangeland Parkway
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Attend online

Register for the online option to receive the live-access link.

What to bring

Bring a laptop or notebook and something to write with. No preparation is needed.

Registration is required for both in-person and online attendance. In-person seating is limited.

Please reserve one ticket for each person attending in the room. If both a parent and teen are attending in person, reserve two tickets.

This event is not sponsored or endorsed by the Manatee County Public Library System. This workshop is educational and does not guarantee admission to a college or the receipt of scholarships or financial aid.