Write on the Money
Annual Student Writing Contest
Are you a Mid-State student who enjoys writing or has a strong example of a research paper or essay that you’ve already written? Submit your writing to compete for a $100 gift card and a chance to showcase your work!
This contest provides two categories for submission (Research Paper and Essay). Students can compete in one or both—the winner of each category will receive a $100 gift card from the location of their choice, donated by the Student Leadership Board.
Students are encouraged to submit existing writing that qualifies and adheres to the submission categories and guidelines, or write a new paper or essay just for the contest.
Qualifications for Entry
- You must be currently enrolled as a student at Mid-State Technical College for the spring 2026 semester.
- You may enter one or both categories, one paper per category.
- Your paper must be original, unpublished nonfiction (no fiction or poetry).
Submission Categories
- Research Paper: On any topic. Up to 2,500 words, double spaced, in APA style.
- Essay: A descriptive, definition, narrative, personal, persuasive, opinion, comparison, classification/division, process analysis, or cause and effect essay. Up to 2,000 words, double spaced.
How to Enter
Email your submission as an attached Word doc or PDF to Jill Quinn, along with your name, student ID #, Mid-State program, and contact information.
Contest Timeline
- Friday, February 27, 2026 11:59 p.m. – Deadline for submission.
- Friday, April 3, 2026– Contest winners notified.
Judges
- Essay Judge – Ron Rindo
- Research Paper Judge – Marcia Bjornerud
Judging Criteria
- Essay category – Originality of ideas, clear expression of ideas, unified and cohesive structure, well-supported thesis, and unique voice.
- Research category – Originality of ideas, clear expression of ideas, unified and cohesive structure, logically supported thesis, credibility of sources, synthesis of source material, and correct APA format.
Questions?
Contact Jill Quinn, Communication Instructor
