Writing Groups

COVID-19 Update: For the remainder of the Fall 2020 semester, all writing groups will be meeting virtually. If you are interested in joining a virtual writing group, please contact the Writing Groups Coordinator, Rachel Lee: rachel.lee@rochester.edu

Writing groups are dedicated to writing, and to helping writers establish and meet short- and long-term writing goals. Writing groups set their own schedules, and each group member sets their own writing goals.

Unlike other models of writing groups that focus on reader responses and peer reviewing, writing groups supported by the Graduate Writing Project focus on the writing process by setting goals and using sessions to write.

Successful groups tend to range anywhere from three to five members and meet consistently over a single semester. For many writers, writing groups provide the sense of community, support, and accountability needed to complete extended writing projects. Other benefits of participating in a writing group include:

  • Scheduled time for writing (to improve focus or manage procrastination)
  • Emotional support
  • Motivation
  • Opportunities to learn more about writing, including your own process

To support writing groups, we offer a starter package with information on how to begin and maintain a successful writing group. Once your group has started, we can schedule writing consultants to visit your writing group and can help you locate quiet space to write.

Join a Writing Group

Interested in joining a writing group? See the active group page to find a group that would be a good fit for you. If you’d like to join a group, contact the group leader for more information. 

If your writing group is open to new members, we can add you to our directory of writing groups. Email Rachel Lee at rachel.lee@rochester.edu for more information.

Start a Writing Group

Don’t see an active writing group for you? Want to start your own writing group?

Complete the Writing Group Interest Form to get started.

Writing Group Materials

Feel free to use these materials in your writing group!