Writing contest: The Words that Inspire

Join us, express your creativity and let your story inspire the next chapter of learning at RMIT.

This contest invites you to share a heartfelt story that celebrates the power of learning and the role the library plays in your journey. Whether it’s a letter to a mentor, a moment of discovery, or a connection that changed your path. Your words can inspire others to see the library as more than a space, but a companion in growth.

Event timeline

Submission

10 November - 3 December

Deadline

11.59 pm, 3 December

Awards

10am - 2pm, 17 – 22 November

Suggested topics

Your story can explore, but is not limited to, the following themes

  • The library of the future how learning and connection might evolve.
  • Hidden stories the library from the perspective of its shelves, books, or walls.
  • The quiet revolution small moments of transformation that happen in library spaces.
  • A home for all learners the library as a symbol of inclusivity and community. 
  • Learning beyond books experiences, conversations and creativity inspired by the library.
  • The library as a mentor guiding someone toward learning or rediscovery.
  • When the library comes alive magical realism or fantasy where the library literally helps characters grow. 
  • The library that connected us friendships, mentorships, or community bonds sparked there.
  • A connection made at the library two people, two ideas, or two worlds meeting. 
  • Growth through curiosity how one book, encounter, or librarian changed someone’s path. 

Requirements

  • Language: English
  • Word count: 700-1000 words
  • Note: Any use of AI tools in your submission must be clearly acknowledged and cited.

Judging criteria

  • Authenticity and Personal Voice: 20%
  • Feasibility and Relevance: 20%
  • Creativity: 20%
  • Impact and Inspiration for Students/Library: 20%
  • Clarity: 10%
  • Presentation: 10%

Tips to gain high scores

Tip 1: hook them early 

Your first 50 words are crucial. Start with something vivid, emotional, or surprising to capture attention immediately.

Tip 2: be original 

Use your own experiences, thoughts, or imagination. Authenticity makes your story stand out.

Tip 3: connect to the library 

Show how the library inspires learning, creativity, or personal growth directly or symbolically.

Tip 4: stay on theme 

Keep your story focused on the main question: How does the library inspire change or connection?

Tip 5: show, don’t just tell 

Use descriptive details, emotions, and actions to make the story feel alive.

Tip 6: leave a message 

End with a meaningful reflection or takeaway that leaves readers thinking.

Tip 7: mind the basics

Stay within the word limit, proofread your writing, and keep your structure clear and easy to follow. 

Who can join

“Words that Inspire” welcomes all RMIT current students in both Hanoi and Saigon South campuses.

Prizes

  1. 1st Grand Prize (each campus): Google Nest Audio
  2. 1st Runner-up Prize (each campus): Smartmi Air Purifier
  3. People’s Choice Prize (each campus): JBL Tune 520BT Headphones
  4. Consolation Prizes (both campuses, early-bird submission only): x10 Anker Zolo A1684
  5. Check-in Gifts (both campuses, early-bird submission only): x100 Library Lanyards
words-that-inspire-prizes - 1

Awards ceremony

Saigon South campus

  • Venue: Auditorium 05 
  • Date: 10 December
  • Time: 9am - 11am

Hanoi campus

  • Venue: AV Theater 
  • Date: 12 December
  • Time: 9am - 11am
Submit your work

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