I participate in many writing competitions, and I’m up against writers from all ages, backgrounds, some with years of writing experience, some with MFAs and stuff. So, well, I pretty much always lose.
But if I want to talk about my passion for writing, but I don’t have much other than this to go on (except a few others like publishing and literary magazines).
I’m an international student, so in my country, we don’t have many opportunities (competitions/publishing) for writers at the local level.
Should I bother mentioning my participation at all?
Thanks for any help.
Yes, I don’t see why not. Just mention that it was open for all age groups.
Actually, it is not worth adding things that you did not win. But don’t worry, colleges know well that international students do not have as many opportunities in EC as Americans do.
Just mentioning your continuous writing activity in your application will suffice.
If anyone can participate in the competition and there are no requirements to do so, then perhaps you should not add it. But if participating in the competition gives your writing ability some credibility on its own, then you should add it.