Local writers harboring a dream of being a published author can showcase their creative talents through a literary writing contest currently underway at Meridian Community College.

The contest is open to all MCC students, Mississippi State University-Meridian students, all sophomores, juniors and seniors in Meridian Public and Lauderdale County school districts, and community residents aged 18 and older. Area students currently attending other colleges, with the exception of MSU-Meridian, are ineligible to participate, according to a MCC release.

The literary competition offers participants the chance to compete in three categories: short story, informal essay and poetry. Each contestant may enter one, two or all three categories.

Deadline to submit entries in the contest is Jan. 17, 2025.

Short stories must not exceed 10 typewritten, double-spaced pages with standard margins. The informal essay must not exceed five typewritten pages, and poems must not exceed 50 typewritten lines. Documents should be saved as a PDF file. No names, including the author’s, should be on the submission.

Cash prizes, courtesy of the MCC Foundation, will be awarded to the top three entries in each category. First place will receive $75, $50 for second place and $25 for third place.

Winners will be notified by email and their works featured in the Scribbler Literary Review, the college’s literary journal.

For more information about the literary contest or questions on how to make your submission, please visit meridiancc.edu/literarycontest or contact Amy LaFleur, part-time librarian, at amy.lafleur@meridiancc.edu.