Spring 2026 Writing Challenge
Writing Prompts
Elementary Division:
Choose a successful investor, company, or investment firm. Describe what they invested in and the smart choices that helped them succeed. Did they start early, stay patient, spread out their investments, or stick to a long-term plan?
Finally, explain one important investing lesson you learned from them and how you could use that lesson in your own financial future.
Middle School & High School Divisions:
Research a successful investor, company, or investment firm. Describe their investment strategy and approach.
What habits, decisions, or principles contributed to their long-term success?
Analyze what young investors can learn from their approach and explain how you would apply those lessons in your own investing decisions.
Submission Due Date: April 17, 2026
Instructions for Submission and Rules
All essay submissions are due by 11:59 PM MST on April 17, 2026. Essays can be submitted online at: https://form.jotform.com/UtahTreasurer/UTIC or in the submission form below.
Essays will be reviewed by a team of judges representing government and industry. Essays will be screened for plagiarism and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Indication of plagiarism will result in disqualification.
Prizes
• 1st Place – $100 gift card, my529 certificate, trophy, and banquet invitation
• 2nd Place – $50 gift card, my529 certificate, trophy, and banquet invitation
• 3rd Place – $25 gift card, my529 certificate, trophy, and banquet invitation
Staff Contact:
Communications & Outreach Programs Manager
Ania McGrath
(801) 538-1473 | [email protected]