As a published author, I always look forward to reading FundsforWriters. Not only does it deliver C. Hope Clark’s fun updates about all things books (and life!), it provides incredibly useful news about literary grants, job opportunities, industry insights, and writing retreats.

Last year, the newsletter mentioned the Pat Conroy Literary Center’s Writer’s Residency in Beaufort, South Carolina. I never imagined I’d have a shot at earning such a once-in-a-lifetime honor, but I dared to enter at the very last minute. And guess what? All the stars aligned, and I received news that I had been selected to spend a week in the heart of Conroy’s beloved Lowcountry. Thanks to their generous sponsorship, I would spend the time writing, researching, and learning more about the gifted writer and the landscape that had inspired me in countless ways.

The residency is offered twice a year, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. For one thing, it’s located in the charming MarshSong guest cottage on St. Helena Island, approximately 15 minutes from downtown Beaufort and 15 minutes from the beach at Hunting Island State Park. The host, writer Mary Ellen Thompson, is a lovely and LIVELY soul who has become a dear friend, and I can’t imagine a person could make anyone feel more welcome. The entire community embraced my visit with kindness and support, and if you haven’t met the Center’s executive director Jonathan Haupt or the events coordinator Brooke McKinney, you’re in for a real treat.

All the volunteers at the center are incredibly knowledgeable and generous people who believe in the power of story, and Mary Ellen’s home on the water is one of the most beautiful and serene settings I’ve ever had the luxury of experiencing (wild turkey, ducks, frogs, raccoons, and alligators included).

I spent the week exploring miles and miles of the Lowcountry, learning the music of the marsh, the rhythm of the seabirds, and the cadence of the people who call this paradise their homeland. I took some wonderful workshops offered through the Center, and I met with students who are now making their own way as America’s next generation of writers. I mingled with the town’s literary patrons and art community, enjoyed local delicacies on the historic square, and gave my spirit a big exhale, taking time to write up a storm in the cozy comforts of Mary Ellen’s peaceful porch.

Truth be told, I can’t imagine a better way to spend the week or a better group of people to share time with, and I highly recommend putting your hat in the ring for the chance to do the same. I will continue to read FundsforWriters and to apply for future opportunities featured in this wonderful newsletter. The entire Pat Conroy residency was a dream for me, and I will forever consider it one of my life’s greatest blessings.

Thank you C. Hope Clark, Mary Ellen Thompson, and the Pat Conroy Literary Center for all you do to elevate writers and to bring stories to the world.

**

The fourth Pat Conroy Literary Center Writer’s Residency is available to writers of all genres. Deadline to apply: January 8, 2022. Learn more.

BIO: Julie Cantrell is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, editor, story coach, TEDx speaker, and ghostwriter whose award-winning works cross multiple genres. Learn more: www.juliecantrell.com