The contest begins on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 9 a.m. CDT, and runs through Friday, July 24, 2026, at 4 p.m. CDT. At the contest’s start we’ll provide two writing prompts — the rest is up to you!

Submissions must be 100 words or less and composed in their entirety during the contest period. All contestants will receive the same prompts.

The contest is free and open to UI alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends from each of the following age categories:

· Grades 3 & 4

· Grades 5 & 6

· Grades 7 & 8

· Grades 9–12

· Current University of Iowa Students

· Adult (University of Iowa Alumni)

· Adult (Friend of the University)

Any participant who is 18 or older AND in high school should enter the grades 9–12 category. All other participants who are 18 or older should enter one of the adult categories.

We will select one winner from each category and post all winning microstories online on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2026, at 9 a.m. CDT.