Writing Camps

The writing camps offer graduate students an opportunity to devote time to the writing process within a supportive, organized venue. During the camps, students will also develop goal-setting skills, share writing resources with others, develop sustainable writing habits, and create a sense of community and accountability.

For help with your writing, please schedule an individual appointment by emailing ctlgs@unm.edu. We also facilitate support groups to complement the writing camp experience and help you continue on a path of progress.  Links to register for Spring are forthcoming!

*Each Fall and Spring Break we host an overnight writing retreat with the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge (shown above). We also host a mini-retreat at Bernalillo County Open Spaces around Albuquerque.  Food and lodging (as applicable) are provided at these retreats.

Zoom camps are hosted fully online and you will receive a link when you RSVP, while hybrid and in-person writing camps will be held at the Graduate Commons in the Basement of Zimmerman Library. Retreats are held at their listed location.  To learn how to join Zoom meetings, please view this guide.

Writing Camp General Agenda

• Check-in & Goal-setting: 9:00 - 9:15 am
• Dedicated writing time: 9:15 am - 12:00 pm
• Lunch: 12:00 - 1:00 pm
• Dedicated writing time: 1:00 -  4:00 pm
• Reflection & Close: 4:00 - 4:15 pm

First-Time Participants

Please email ctlgs@unm.edu to schedule a 15-minute pre-camp consultation.

The purpose of this consultation is to review your writing project and writing camp expectations. You are only required to schedule this consultation before your first writing camp.

Returning Participants

Students who have previously attended writing camps may register to attend any and all writing camps.

Preparing for a Writing Camp

The writing camp is time and space to make progress writing your thesis or dissertation. It is important that you complete any pre-writing before attending camp. This will allow you to focus on progress. Pre-writing includes necessary reading, note-taking, and outlining.

All writing camp participants are encouraged to disconnect from email, social media, and other distractions while at camp. Make any necessary arrangements to allow yourself time to focus on your writing.

We expect participants to be committed to their individual goals and accountable to the writing camp community. If you are unable to attend the session for which you have registered, or need flexibility with your schedule, please notify the writing camp facilitator ahead of time.