Two professors from Oakland University’s English department will sponsor a flash fiction contest open to all undergraduates, graduate students and alumni.

Assistant Professor Jeff Chapman and Associate Professor Annette Gilson will judge the contest, which requires participants to submit a story consisting of 250-1,000 words.

Undergraduate winners will receive a $200 first prize, a $100 second prize and a $50 third prize, according to Chapman. The contest for graduate students and alumni will award $50 for first, second and third place winners.

The short format of the contest is part of the both the challenge and appeal, according to Chapman.

“How do you write a really successful story with so little space… and still tell something that’s compelling and emotionally relevant,” Chapman said.

This is the 14^th year the contest has been held at OU, according to Gilson.

She said students of all majors are encouraged to enter the contest.

“It’s very sexy to see your name next to a bunch of other winning entries,” Gilson said. “To see your work in print is really exciting. Making a little money never hurts.”

The deadline for the contest is March 1.

To find out more about the flash fiction contest, send an email to Chapman at [email protected]