Student writers earn regional honors, advance to national level

Four Ursuline students earned recognition in regional writing competitions this year, highlighting their talent and the strength and support of the school's English department.

In the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, Elizabeth LaScala '26 received a Gold Key for her journalism submission, the highest regional honor, which advances to the national level. Her piece grew from an interview with Andy Szabo, a visual artist and designer, whom she has admired since childhood.

"The opportunity to interview and speak with him was incredible," LaScala said. "I wanted to honor his perspective and translate his message into something meaningful for readers."

Emily Appleyard '28 earned both a Silver Key and an Honorable Mention in the Speculative Fiction category and credits revision as central to her work.

"I love the revision process and seeing my vision come together," Appleyard said. "I like adding foreshadowing and creating plots shaped by the characters themselves."

Additional honors came from the Lifting Up Westchester Student Essay Contest, where Anusha Vaish '28 earned first place in the ninth- and 10th-grade division, and Isabella Estevez '26 placed third in the 11th- and 12th-grade division. Reflecting on their experiences, both students offered advice to younger writers.

"The best pieces come when you genuinely feel enthusiastic about your topic," Vaish said, encouraging younger writers to focus on developing their voice and writing with purpose.

Estevez emphasized the importance of revision and support. "Writing is a process, and your first draft is just the beginning," she said. "Ask for feedback and take the time to refine your work."

"Through my classes at Ursuline, I've grown into a more confident writer, critical thinker, and thoughtful leader."
- Isabella Estevez '26

The award-winning students developed their skills through Ursuline's English curriculum, which emphasizes close reading, analytical thinking, and purposeful revision. Currently, LaScala studies English 12H with Mrs. Maria Hanson '84, the English department chair at Ursuline. Appleyard and Vaish are students in English 10H with Mrs. Patricia Joyce, and Estevez studies AP English Literature & Composition with Ms. Pamela Vasile.

All students are invited to strengthen their writing skills through The Ursuline School Writing Center, where peer tutors in upper-level English Honors and AP English courses provide one-on-one support during Flex periods in Room 213. This opportunity reflects a strong culture of writing at Ursuline, one that supports and facilitates student voice and meaningful expression.

Founded in 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the nation's longest-running recognition program for creative teens. Competitions such as the Lifting Up Westchester essay contest invite students to reflect on issues affecting their communities and express their ideas through thoughtful writing.

For Ursuline's student writers, this recognition affirms the power of words to inform and connect, and celebrates the personal growth that happens along the way.

Reflecting on her experience as a writer, Isabella Estevez '26 said her time at Ursuline has strengthened both her skills and confidence.

"Through my classes at Ursuline, I've grown into a more confident writer, critical thinker, and thoughtful leader," said Estevez, who will be attending the University of Notre Dame in the fall. "Ursuline's motto of Serviam inspires me to lead with compassion and purpose."

"I will say that the environment of an all-girls school is an incredibly valuable thing."
- Elizabeth LaScala '26

Elizabeth LaScala '26, who plans a career in business, echoed that sense of confidence and voice, encouraging younger students to recognize their worth.

"I will say that the environment of an all-girls school is an incredibly valuable thing," she said. "When we go into our future academic and professional careers, remember that you as a woman are equally deserving of being heard, valued, and taken seriously."