Full Guidelines
Access the Full Guidelines Here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qBLdfsO4O5OtBEI4bNh0tQboHxaqkZyn7ujgFvkjoTo/edit?usp=sharing
General Questions
1. What is the Graphite High School Writing Competition?
– The Graphite High School Writing Competition is an annual writing contest organized by Graphite, an undergraduate journal in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UC San Diego. The competition provides a platform for high school students to explore scientific writing, receive mentorship, and showcase their ideas in chemistry and biochemistry.
2. Who is eligible to participate in this competition?
– There are no specific requirements other than being enrolled in high school. Students of all backgrounds and interests are encouraged to participate, even if you’ve never tried scientific writing before!
3. When is the competition held?
– The competition opens on December 6, 2024, and submissions are due by February 28, 2025.
Submission Guidelines
4. What is the word limit for essays?
– Your essay should be between 600 and 750 words.
5. What should my essay be about?
– Your essay must respond to one of the one of the three provided prompts related to atmospheric chemistry, biochemistry and longevity, or marine pollution.
6. What format should I use for my essay?
– Your essay should be written in Times New Roman, 12-point font, double-spaced, and must include at least one citation in ACS style.
7. Can I submit my essay for feedback before the final deadline?
– Yes! You can submit your essay for feedback by filling out the Google Form by January 31, 2025. Graphite editors will review your essay and give guidance on content, structure, and general syntax notes.
Feedback and Submission Process
8. How can I submit my essay for feedback?
– Fill out this [Google Form](https://forms.gle/eqTYau9pdPGQTgp48 ) by January 31, 2025, to receive feedback on your essay.
9. How do I submit my final essay?
– Submit your final essay by February 28, 2025, through this [Google Form](https://forms.gle/AmqZxCPQL36CAkMc8 ).
10. Is there a limit on the number of submissions per person?
– Yes, each participant can only submit ONE final essay.
11. How long will it take for me to receive feedback on my essay?
- Your essay feedback will be returned within two weeks!
Awards and Recognition
12. What are the prizes for winning the competition?
– Winners will have their name and article published on Graphite’s website and annual print edition, receive a $500 scholarship, and be invited to the Annual ACS-SA Undergraduate Research Symposium at UC San Diego.
13. When will winners be announced?
– Winners will be announced via email on April 4, 2025.
14. What should I do after being selected as a winner?
– Winners must provide a headshot and a short bio for publication on Graphite’s website and print edition. In addition, winners must provide the necessary information to be awarded the scholarship. Further correspondence regarding logistics will be provided over email after announcement of winners.
Citations and Formatting
15. How should I cite my sources?
– You should use the ACS citation format, with in-text superscript numbers corresponding to a numbered list of references at the end of your essay. Don’t worry if your citations aren’t perfect; this is a learning opportunity! Refer to the “Full Guidelines” document for further guidance on citations.
16. Can I use websites like Wikipedia as sources?
– While Wikipedia is not recommended as a primary source, it can be used to gain an introduction to your topic. You should use other academic sources like journals and databases for your citations. Refer to the “Full Guidelines” document for further guidance on research sources.
Support and Resources
17. Where can I find resources for research?
– You can use open-access databases like JSTOR, ACS Journals, Google Scholar, and Science X. For additional guidance, you can also email Graphite for help accessing specific academic articles.
18. Who can I contact if I have questions?
– If you have any questions about the competition or submission process, feel free to email graphite@ucsd.edu for assistance.