Erin Stoodley

2016 Literary Arts Scholarship Recipient

Erin, during her freshman year of high school, turned to reading and writing. to cope with her emotions. Through poetry, she found solace and a way to explore universal themes of compassion and humanity. Writing poetry has allowed Erin to develop empathy and curiosity towards the psychological patterns and contradictions inherent in human experiences.

Writing is not just a solitary pursuit for Erin, but a means of connecting with others. Since 2013, she has actively sought out a literary community, attending workshops, participating in collaborative projects, and co-heading her high school's Writing Club. She values the exchange of ideas and the opportunity to support fellow writers in achieving their goals. Erin aspires to continue fostering a constructive and supportive community by participating in the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop during the summer of 2016. This program would provide her with the opportunity to refine her skills through group workshops, receive feedback from established writers, and form meaningful relationships with faculty and peers.

Moreover, Erin sees the workshop as a chance to engage with the historic and scenic environment of Ohio, offering a different kind of education that would deepen her understanding of human nature and enhance her literary craft. By immersing herself in the rich experiences, observations, and interactions provided by the off-campus activities and field trips, she aims to further her creative and technical growth as a poet while contributing to an inspiring and encouraging community of writers.