How beneficial are online writing courses for high school students?

I've heard that good writing skills can make a big difference in both college apps and college itself. I'm thinking of taking an online writing course to improve. Have any of you tried this, and did you feel like it gave you an advantage?

It's great that you're considering honing your writing skills. As a high school counselor, I've observed that students who engage in online writing courses tend to come away with a stronger command of language and a better understanding of how to structure their thoughts effectively. Writing is indeed a critical skill both for college applications, where you need to craft compelling essays, and for academic success in college, where you'll be expected to write papers in various disciplines. An online writing course can provide you with personalized feedback and often simulates the type of writing you'll encounter in a college setting.

Another benefit is the flexibility of being able to work on your writing at your own pace and from any location. This can be particularly helpful during a busy academic schedule. I've seen students use their enhanced writing abilities to produce more thoughtful and mature college essays, which can definitely leave a positive impression with admissions committees.

However, remember that improvement in writing comes with consistent practice, so make sure you're ready to commit to the process. You might want to consider supplementing the course with real-world practice, such as starting a blog or writing for your school newspaper. This practical application will reinforce the skills you learn in the course and provide a portfolio of work to show for your efforts.

Overall, if you have the time to add an additional class to your workload, I'd say go for it!