Writing Contests for High School Students in 2020: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you a high school student with a knack for storytelling, poetry, or essay writing? 2020 presents a plethora of opportunities for you to showcase your skills and gain recognition through various writing contests. This comprehensive guide will walk you through some of the most prestigious and promising writing competitions for high school students this year.
Why Participate in Writing Contests?
Participating in writing contests offers numerous benefits. It provides a platform to express your creativity, hone your writing skills, and receive valuable feedback. Moreover, winning or being recognized in these contests can boost your college applications, enhance your portfolio, and even come with attractive prizes like scholarships, publication opportunities, or cash rewards.
Top Writing Contests for High School Students in 2020
| Contest Name | Type of Writing | Prize | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Essay Contest | Essay | $1,000 - $5,000 | March 1, 2020 |
| Phoenix Awards | Poetry, Short Story, Essay | $100 - $1,000 | March 15, 2020 |
| The Story People Writing Contest | Short Story, Essay | $100 - $500 | April 1, 2020 |
| American Poetry Review Contest | Poetry | $500 | May 1, 2020 |
| Princeton Review College Search Scholarship Sweepstakes | Essay | $1,000 | June 30, 2020 |
| NYFA Writing Contest | Short Story, Essay, Poetry | $100 - $1,000 | July 15, 2020 |
Tips for Winning Writing Contests
- Read the Guidelines Carefully: Ensure you understand the contest's theme, word count, formatting, and submission requirements.
- Brainstorm and Plan: Before you start writing, spend time brainstorming ideas and planning your piece.
- Revise and Edit: Make sure to proofread your work for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. Consider getting feedback from teachers, peers, or mentors.
- Be Original and Authentic: Let your unique voice and perspective shine through in your writing.
- Meet the Deadline: Submissions received after the deadline will not be considered.
In conclusion, 2020 presents a wealth of opportunities for high school students to showcase their writing skills and gain recognition. By participating in these contests, you not only stand a chance to win attractive prizes but also enhance your writing skills and boost your college applications. So, start brainstorming, and let your creativity flow onto the page!
