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This year the Journalism class had the amazing opportunity to attend Mount Hermon’s 41^st Christian Writers Conference. All the students took the same Major Morning Teen Track-“Writing a Novel; How to start and finish the race”. We all attended different writing workshops during the day that taught us things like how to create characters that live and breathe, marketing, and article writing. We all had the chance to submit manuscripts to be reviewed by professional writers; their critiques were helpful in enhancing our stories. All had our favorite memory:

Mt Hermon was by far one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so much about writing and just as much about life. It was really cool to hang out with a class as awesome as this one for five days straight. I can’t wait to go again next year!

–Aaron Bennett

I believe that Mt. Hermon was a very enriching part of my life and I have gained knowledge and memories that I will hold with me for the rest of my life. I learned so much about story development and how the Christian writing market differs from that of the secular market. My most lasting memory will probably be just chilling with all my classmates in our room after a long days work and having a blast.

–Nolan Kelley

At Mt. Hermon I really enjoyed hanging out with everyone and getting to know them, especially Jina and Angie. I also loved all the classes I went to; I learned a lot. And meeting with Ethel Herr was a great experience and she encouraged me to continue with my story.

– Heather McCuistion

Mt. Hermon really showed me all the little details in writing. One of the things I learned was how to show characters personalities without telling but by showing their reactions. My favorite part of Mt. Hermon was hanging out with my homies in the rooms and getting to know each of them better.

–Tevin Jones

Before going to Mount Hermon, I was apprehensive and wasn’t sure if it would really help my writing skills, let alone be fun. But, while there, I met many amazing people who aided me on my quest to become an amazing writer, and also bonded with my fellow journalism students (and Dakota). It was a time I will never forget, and will cherish always.

–Angelina Martin

I liked the environment. Everyone was really nice. I also enjoyed making new friends, Dakoters. It was really fun to learn how to be a better writer.

–Anthony Adams

My experience at Mount Hermon was simply amazing. Everything about it was fantastic. I did not really want to go at first, but now I am so glad I did. I learned so much about writing and I am excited to apply it in college! The best part was without a doubt bonding with everyone and becoming a little journalism family. I also enjoyed stealing Nolan’s room key. Angie and I attempted to play a prank on the boys but were caught by Mrs. Thompson. I am so glad that we had the chance to have this experience and I definitely want to go back.

–Jina Daniel

I believe this was my ninth visit to the Mount Hermon Christian Writer’s Conference, and each time, I leave inspired and refreshed. This year was no different. I took James Scott Bell’s Mentoring Track and learned some great fiction writing techniques. It was especially fun for me this year as I watched my journalism class catch the vision of the writing process. Another highlight was hiking with my students on the back tail of the Santa Cruz Hills that abuts the MH campus. My hope is that next year’s class will also have the opportunity to attend the conference.

— Mrs. Thompson