ABOUT THE JOURNAL:

The Intramural Journal, formerly known as the Newcomer’s Journal, has been a platform for showcasing exceptional writing since its inception in 2019. It features outstanding works from students residing in University of Sydney-affiliated residences. Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate residents, this annual competition curates a collection of diverse and thought-provoking pieces that resonate with a broad audience.  

PURPOSE:

The Intramural Journal is dedicated to:

• Highlighting the strengths, creativity, and diverse perspectives of our community.
• Representing the voices of over 5,500 students from 70+ nations participating in the intramural program.
• Creating a platform for communication, idea-sharing, and connection among residents and professional staff.

TARGETED AUDIENCE:

This competition is open to all residents of participating University of Sydney-affiliated residences. It provides an exciting opportunity for students to:

• Showcase their writing skills
• Express their ideas
• Achieve recognition as published authors.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to all students residing in participating University of Sydney-affiliated residences.

CATEGORIES:

Submissions must fall under one of the following categories:

1. Poetry
   • Word limit: 400 words
2. Short Form
   • Fiction or Non-Fiction (Short Story)
   • Word limit: 800 words
3. Long Form
   • Essay or Opinion Piece
   • Word limit: 1,500 words

Note: Literature reviews will not be published in this journal. Students interested in submitting literature reviews are encouraged to explore alternative avenues.

SUBMISSION RULES:

1. Each participant may submit only one piece overall, regardless of the category.
2. Submissions must align with the theme: Unity.
3. Include the following in your submission:
   1. A title for your piece.
   2. A one-line summary or abstract describing your work
   3. Subheadings (for essays or opinion pieces).
4. Each category will accept between 5-7 submissions for final publication consideration.

Additional Requirements:

• Authors must submit a high-quality photo of themselves for potential publication alongside their work.
• All submissions must include a signed Declaration of Originality, confirming that the work is original and non-plagiarised. Submissions may be checked using plagiarism detection software; plagiarised entries will be disqualified.

Selection Process:

• Each category will accept 5 – 7 submissions for final publication consideration.

JUDGING CRITERIA:

Submissions will be evaluated using an attached rubric based on:

1. Alignment with the theme: Unity.
2. Creativity and originality.
3. Structure and coherence.
4. Overall impact.

RECOGNITION AND REWARDS:

1. Points Towards the Intramural Residential Cup: Every submission earns points for the participant’s residence in the Intramural Championship.
2. Gala Night Recognition: Authors of published works will be invited to a special Gala Night celebrating their contributions, where the journal will be officially launched.
3. Power Pitch Opportunity: Authors may present their work through a “Power Pitch” at the gala event if they wish.
4. Panelists’ Award: The highest-scoring piece, as judged by the panel, will receive a prestigious Panelists’ Award.

SHOWCASE OPPORTUNITIES:

The journal will be unveiled at the Gala Night.

Applications for the Intramural Journal are now open until 22 August 2025 at 12:00 a.m.

NON USYD STUDENTS:

Please submit your contact details to this Expression of Interest form. You will be emailed a link enabling access to submit in the portal.

Contact Us: If you have any questions about the application process or the Intramural program, please feel contact us atstudentlife.office@sydney.edu.au.