Hi, my name is Avery! I am currently a first year at the Evergreen State College, in which I’ve been given the opportunity to go to NYC for five weeks for a poetry program. This program will begin in mid April through May 2023. I have always been interested in pursuing writing, more specifically poetry. This program will teach us about the publishing process, while giving us the chance to interview writers and attend writer/publisher’s events all over the city. While this program is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me, I’m still unfortunately living off of college kid money. Students in this program must cover airfare, housing, food, etc. It’s a lot to ask for, but I am grateful for every penny made from this.

Help me achieve my goal of entering the writer’s world and publishing my very own work! Thank you and enjoy this short piece about the evergreen trees that surround me.

You stand so stoic,

taller than the others.

The soft dress of moss cascades down your rough bark.

Your branches reach out like a maternal embrace.

Sun shines on your many faces,

I yearn to hear your stories.

For your kind are the silent witnesses of the world—

what do I have left to learn?

Miles to walk,

paths untouched.

The wind howls through your arms,

let your knowledge unto me.

by Avery Smith

PS if you’d like to read some more of the work you’re putting your money into, shoot me a message and I’ll send you some of my writing :)

IG: @averynichosmith

email: avery.nichole.smith@gmail