2026 MDOCS Storytellers' Institute

We consider a diversity of class year and diversity of primary medium when making selections, as well as seeking a diversity of backgrounds and kinds of stories, finding that the priority spots we've long held for Opportunity Program and International students constructively aid our community in offering a community of critique and practice that is as broad and representative as the audiences to which we address our work.

Please check all the boxes below that apply to you or write in the "other" category.

Feel free to elaborate in the space provided below.

Please provide 1-5 work samples below.

Formats can include video, audio, photography, web-based work, documentation of a performance, a piece of non-fiction writing, etc.

For time-based work (video, audio, etc), please submit samples that are no longer than 5 minutes total. Reviewers are not obligated to watch/ listen to more than 5 minutes total.

For written work, please submit samples that are no longer than 5 pages total. Reviewers are not obligated to read more than 5 pages.

Please submit digital samples only by uploading files below or pasting links and passwords below.

In order for all Fellows to get the most of the Institute, everyone is expected to fully engage with Institute events and be in residence for the duration of the Institute (except for most weekends).

Events take place during the day and evening. In order to fully participate and engage with all aspects of the Institute, including workshops, discussions, and community activities, we require your full participation. We expect this to be your only committment for the length of the program. The Storytellers' Institute strives to provide a respectful, comfortable, and productive environment, freeing makers from the pressures and distractions of daily life. To that end we are pleased to offer this fully funded opportunity, with room and board provided, this ensures you can dedicate your time and attention fully to the experience.

Do you agree to being in continuous residence and commit fully to your time at the Storytellers' Institute without outside obligations? If so, check yes below.

Skidmore Students are required to take a 2-credit Storytellers' Institute Prep class during the Spring semester of 2026. Please check the Master Schedule for the course times.

The goal of this class is to prepare students for the Institute and give them the space to begin their Institute projects.

Please check yes below that you understand that you are required to take the 2-credit Storytellers' Institute Prep class in order to participate in this experience during the Spring of 2026.

In addition to this application form, you are required to have one letter of reference from a professor, educator, or mentor who knows you well sent directly to mdocs@skidmore.edu by October 20th.

Your application will not be considered without a letter of reference sent directly to us.

Please check yes below that you understand that you must have a letter of reference sent to mdocs@skidmore.edu by Oct. 20th in order to be considered for this opportunity.