Allison Xu

Allison Xu is a high school writer and poet in Rockville, Maryland. Her poetry and short stories have been published in Blue Marble Review, Unbroken, The Daphne Review, Paper Lanterns, The Weight Journal, The Start Literary Journal, and several anthologies. Her creative writing explores the complexities of the young adult years, a period in life that brims with desire and aspirations, as well as chaos and conflicts. Many of her poems delve into the concepts of freedom, justice, choice, and the desire to break away from limiting beliefs. Her work has been recognized by the National High School Poetry Quarterly, the New York Times, Kay Snow Writing Contest, and others. In addition to her creative writing, Allison is a news writer and editor for her school and county newspaper. She also actively engages in leading community service efforts, particularly in advancing racial equity and promoting soft skills among youth. In 2022, she was selected as a Maryland Young Women Leaders Awardee for her contributions to the community.