UPenn Recruits High School Writers for Enrollment
The Kelly Writers House uses workshops and mentorship to reach prospective students in Philadelphia.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in College Applications
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The University of Pennsylvania runs a specialized creative writing recruitment program based at the Kelly Writers House. The initiative specifically targets low-income and first-generation students to encourage them to apply for university enrollment.
Why it matters
This program helps identify talented young writers who may not have otherwise considered applying to the university. By providing mentorship and application assistance, organizers aim to bridge the gap for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
The Kelly Writers House hosts a 10-day residential summer workshop for prospective students. Participants receive direct feedback on their Common App personal statements and guidance regarding university financial aid processes.
The players
Kelly Writers House
This is a creative writing center located at the University of Pennsylvania that serves as the base for the recruitment program.
Jamie-Lee Josselyn
She serves as the manager of the creative writing recruitment program and is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania.
The details
Jamie-Lee Josselyn manages the program, which involves visiting high school writing initiatives and maintaining ongoing communication with interested students. The program coordinates directly with admissions staff to track prospective applicants and often provides successful recruits with work-study positions.
Timeline
Jamie-Lee Josselyn graduated from the university in 2005.
Josselyn assumed management of the recruitment role in 2012.
Culture Shift
This program reflects the broader move among elite universities to diversify student bodies by targeting first-generation and low-income talent. It follows a growing trend of using niche academic departments to foster connections with prospective students who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional admissions.
Local students interested in the program can utilize the website and email list maintained by the Kelly Writers House to track upcoming opportunities. Those who qualify may receive personalized assistance with their Common App personal statements and essential financial aid guidance.
The takeaway
Students interested in competitive admissions should look for specialized departmental programs that offer direct mentorship beyond the general admissions office. Building a relationship with a specific department can provide critical support during the application process.
Further reading
Learn more about the competitive landscape for College Applications at the University of Pennsylvania.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Former Penn President Liz Magill earned $4.46 million the year following her resignation - The Daily Pennsylvanian.
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Do targeted recruitment efforts by university arts programs create better access for prospective students?
