Be A Friend Project Scholarship

WRITING PROMPT:

We all know what we’re supposed to do when we see a classmate being bullied but let’s be real - not everyone actually does it.

Picture this: a group of friends are sitting together at lunch, chatting about a classmate who’s being bullied.

Here’s the twist the person doing the bullying is actually one of their own friends. But today? That friend is absent.

The conversation shifts. Some say the bullying is wrong. Others hesitate. Should they speak up? Should they protect or reach out to the classmate? Should they “snitch” on someone they hang out with every day?

Not everyone agrees. One friend doesn’t think it’s their place to get involved. But others feel deep down that “looking the other way” just isn’t right.

YOUR CHALLENGE: Write a 2-4 page script of this lunchtime conversation. Why should they step in? What’s stopping them - and how can they overcome it? Show us how these ordinary bystanders can become real-life UPstanders.

NOTE: To ensure fairness, please use 12 pt Times New Roman font with default margins (1 inch) on your document. Thank you!

SCORING:

Scripts will be assessed on creativity, realism (emotional depth) and knowledge of the subject of bullying and its consequences.

We discourage using AI to generate your script from our writing prompt. While it may be a shortcut, the truth is - it shows. Scripts that rely on AI tend to look and sound the same, and will receive a zero for creativity. We want to hear your voice, your ideas and your heart. That’s what makes your story stand out!