The writing competition for Rensselaer students — the McKinney Contest — is now open for the 2007-2008 academic year.

Faculty members are asked to encourage students to participate.

First prize will be $300; second prize $175; and third prize $75. The categories for the competition are: poetry, essay (class papers acceptable), fiction or drama, and electronic media (including games). The competition includes two divisions, one for undergraduate students, another for graduate students.

The due date for entries is March 18, 2008. For competition details, go to www.llc.rpi.edu/web/mckinney.