# New York Times Personal Narrative Contest The **New York Times Personal Narrative Contest** invites high school students in grades 9-12 from around the world to showcase their writing skills by crafting a compelling personal narrative. Hosted by *The New York Times*, this prestigious contest challenges students to reflect on a meaningful life experience and share it in a well-written, engaging piece. The contest emphasizes creativity, self-expression, and storytelling, offering young writers the chance to have their voices heard on an international platform. ## Program Structure The New York Times Personal Narrative Contest is conducted entirely online, making it accessible to students worldwide. The contest typically opens for submissions once a year, and participants are given a clearly defined period to write and submit their narratives. Submissions must adhere to the contest guidelines, including word count and thematic focus. After the submission period closes, entries are reviewed by *The New York Times* editorial staff, who select standout pieces based on originality, writing quality, and the ability to vividly convey a personal experience. Winning entries are published on *The New York Times* website, offering students a chance to gain recognition for their talent. ## What Students Experience Participants in the contest will engage in reflective, creative writing as they craft a personal narrative about a meaningful life experience. This exercise encourages students to think deeply about their lives, identify moments of growth, and articulate their thoughts in a compelling way. While the contest does not provide direct mentorship, the opportunity to write for a respected publication like *The New York Times* is a valuable motivator for students to hone their writing skills. Winners of the contest gain international recognition and the chance to have their work published by one of the most renowned media organizations in the world. This achievement highlights their ability to write effectively, think critically, and express themselves authentically. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Winning or even participating in the New York Times Personal Narrative Contest is an impressive addition to any college application. It demonstrates a student’s dedication to writing and storytelling, showcasing their ability to communicate complex ideas and personal experiences effectively. For students interested in arts, journalism, or creative writing, this contest is an excellent way to highlight their passion and talent. Additionally, publication by *The New York Times* signals to admissions officers that a student has achieved a significant level of recognition for their work. ## Eligibility The contest is open to high school students in grades 9-12 from anywhere in the world. There is no cost to participate, making it an accessible opportunity for all eligible students. Submissions must be original and adhere to the contest’s specific guidelines, including the requirement to focus on a meaningful personal experience. ## How to Participate To enter the contest, students must submit their personal narratives through the official *New York Times* contest submission portal. Specific instructions, including word count limits and formatting requirements, are provided on the contest website. Deadlines for submission are announced annually, so students are encouraged to check the *New York Times* Learning Network website regularly for updates. For more details and to submit your entry, visit [The New York Times Learning Network](https://www.nytimes.com/section/learning).