Conversations about AI and college essays often focus on prevention and policing: How can we keep students from using AI? How can we detect when they have? Other conversations focus on acceptable uses, such as brainstorming, editing, or receiving feedback. According to college essay expert Susan Knoppow, these conversations are incomplete. In this engaging presentation, Susan will introduce a different framework – one centered on student voice, editorial decision-making, and the durable skills students need in high school, college, and beyond, regardless of how technology evolves. Drawing on 17 years as CEO of Wow Writing Workshop and creator of the ten-step Wow Method, Susan will explain how she and her team approach AI and college essays, whether training colleagues or working directly with students. Participants will gain practical strategies for helping students take ownership of their writing and make thoughtful decisions about when (and whether) to use AI. Designed for admission officers, counselors, and teachers, this session will provide a fresh and productive way to think about AI, student writing, and the college essay process.

Presenter: Susan Knoppow, CEO and co-founder of Wow Writing Workshop