June 21 – July 05, 2015
Application Deadline: February 15, 2015
Purpose:
Between the Lines is a component of the International Writing Program (IWP) that brings young writers, aged 16-19, to the University of Iowa for creative writing study and cultural interaction. The theme of this year will be Peace and the Writing Experience.
Program:
During this program in the U.S., the selected participants will take part in creative writing workshops, seminars on literary topics, cultural visits, and local events.
Award:
The program covers the full cost of this cultural and creative exchange.
Eligibility:
Talented young writers, between age 16-19 years, who show promise to become future literary figures in their respective countries and in their own native languages.
- Applicants must be proficient in Arabic and English (reading, writing and speaking);
- Past experience in creative writing both in English and Arabic;
- Ready to develop and share new writing techniques.
Required Application Documents:
- A writing sample of 6-8 pages of prose and/or poetry in Arabic.
- A writing sample of 6-8 pages of prose and/or poetry in English.
- A brief one-paragraph statement of purpose in English describing why writing is important to your life, and what you hope to learn at BTL.
- A writing sample of 2-5 pages of prose and/or poetry in either language in response to one of the following writing prompts:
- During breakfast you are startled by a heavy knock at the door. It is someone who demands something from you. Who is it, what does he/she need, and what happens next? Write a short story or poem.
- Write a short story or poem that contains three of the following objects and one place:
- Objects: old bicycle, uncomfortable couch, leaking canoe, sleeping puppy, love note, truth serum.
- Places: cruise ship, forest with a lake, empty street at dawn, deserted dance club.
Please e-mail applications to AmmanExchanges@state.gov no later than February 15, 2015.
*School essays and other non-fiction writing will not be accepted.
