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On September 13, Cooler by the Lake is re-launching with new voices, new topics, and a new showcase for writing from the StoryStudio community.

Read on for information on how to submit your work, and make your words a little bit Cooler!

Cooler by the Lake is an online magazine featuring the voices and perspectives of the StoryStudio community.

StoryStudio staff and faculty publish regular columns and non-fiction features on topics of literary interest to our students, as well as publishing trends and opportunities. We also proudly showcase student writing in many forms, including short fiction, novel excerpts, creative non-fiction and poetry.

Who can submit to Cooler?

• Cooler by the Lake accepts submissions from former or current SSC students who have completed, or are currently enrolled in, at least one full-length (4 week or longer) class at StoryStudio Chicago.

What kinds of submissions are accepted?

• We accept original works of short fiction, novel excerpts, creative non-fiction and poetry.
• Submissions should be up to 3000 words in length. (Very short pieces are wonderful!)
• In some circumstances, work with a visual component (such as illustrations or photographs) will also be considered.

When are your deadlines?

• General submissions are accepted and considered on a rolling basis, and reviewed by StoryStudio staff.
• We usually respond to submissions within a few weeks.

Where are accepted submissions published?

• Accepted submissions will be published on Cooler by the Lake, in a column featuring student writing.
• Published submissions will also remain in the Cooler archives with an exclusive URL, and can be linked to an author bio, providing your piece a permanent home on the web.

Why should I submit to Cooler?

• To participate in and connect with the StoryStudio community
• To earn a permanent home for your writing and bio on the web, where others can access it in the future
• To share your words with the world!
• Sorry, there is no financial payment for accepted submissions – but there is a lot of glory!

How do I submit?

• Submissions should be uploaded via the form below, or as a single MSWord file attachment to . (Please limit your attachments to one per email.)
• Be sure to include an Author Bio. This should be a couple paragraphs focused on your writing. (Cooler by the Lake is a conversation, so feel free to include your writing successes and challenges! Maybe another StoryStudio writer will be able to commiserate.
• We are happy to accept simultaneous submissions, and retain no rights to your work. But if you are successful at having the piece also published elsewhere, let us know so we can toot your horn.
• We encourage you to register on Cooler so you may participate in the discussion.

Questions regarding Cooler by the Lake or the submission process should be directed to Allyson Kendall, Managing Editor: .

Thanks for helping us share your story!