By: Genevieve Rippeon

Mt. Hebron is proud to celebrate and acknowledge Ailyn Zinn, a sophomore at Mt. Hebron, for her participation and selection into a highly selective creative writing program called Navigating the Margins. Through this program, Zinn perfects her writing skills and engages in an out-of-school activity that she enjoys. 

Navigating the Margins, a program sponsored by Howard County, is expertly guided by Danielle DuPuis, the LGBTQIA+ Initiatives Specialist for Howard County. Her leadership ensures that the program is not just about writing, but also about fostering a diverse and inclusive community. 

“I noticed that there was a need for some more guidance or there was some interest in short story writing,” said DuPuis.

 Navigating the Margins pairs high school writers with published authors. The students submit pages of their writing each month for feedback. 

The Navigating the Margins program upholds a rigorous selection process, with 90 applicants vying for just 25 spots. Each candidate was evaluated based on a comprehensive written application that scrutinized their writing skills and dedication, ensuring that only the most passionate and talented writers were chosen. 

Zinn is grateful for the opportunity she’s been given to work with her author, Kalynn Bayron. 

Bayron is the author of several contemporary fantasy books, including Cinderella is Dead and This Poison Heart. Cinderella is Dead was her debut novel, and Zinn connected most with it. 

“I chose my author Kaylen Barrer because her stuff is very similar to what I wrote, fantasy and sometimes horror. She was really nice,” said Zinn. 

The program focuses on multiple aspects of young writers’ future works, including editing, guidance and organization. By the end of the year, writers will have a completed short story that will be published and sold in their short story collection. 

“It is very helpful, especially grammar-wise. It’s cool to be able to bounce ideas off of each other. She’s adapting to the way I wrote, very poetic and not much of a storyline,” stated Bayron.

This is an incredible opportunity for young writers, and they also get to view various diverse writing styles while working with a professional. 

“We work with the other students as well, and I get to see their diverse writing styles,” Bayron continued. 

Creativity and diversity fill every page of this highly competitive program, inspiring its students and mentors. Mt. Hebron congratulates Ailyn Zinn on this accomplishment and can’t wait for the next chapter.