10 Great Essay Contests for High School Students
Are you a high school student with a passion for writing? Essay contests provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase your skills, gain recognition, and even win prizes. Whether you're interested in literature, social issues, science, or creative writing, there's a contest out there for you. Here are 10 essay contests open to high school students:
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Why Should High School Students Participate in Essay Contests?
Participating in essay contests offers a multitude of benefits for high school students, extending beyond academic achievement. Here are several compelling reasons why students should consider entering these competitions:
1. Sharpen Writing Skills: Essay contests provide an excellent opportunity for students to hone their writing abilities. Crafting a compelling essay requires careful organization, clarity of thought, and effective communication—all skills that are invaluable in academic and professional settings.
2. Explore Personal Interests: Essay contests cover a wide range of topics, from literature and history to science and social issues. By choosing a contest aligned with their interests, students can delve deep into subjects they are passionate about, fostering intellectual curiosity and expanding their knowledge base.
3. Build Confidence: Submitting an essay for competition can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it also offers a chance for students to showcase their talents and ideas. Winning or even just participating in a contest can boost confidence and self-esteem, validating students' hard work and dedication.
4. Receive Recognition and Prizes: Many essay contests offer cash prizes, scholarships, or publication opportunities for winners and finalists. Beyond monetary rewards, being recognized for their writing achievements can open doors to further educational and professional opportunities.
5. Develop Critical Thinking Skills: Essay contests often prompt students to analyze complex issues, evaluate evidence, and articulate their opinions persuasively. Engaging with these challenges fosters critical thinking skills, encouraging students to question assumptions, consider multiple perspectives, and form well-reasoned arguments.
6. Gain Experience for College Applications: Participation in essay contests demonstrates initiative, creativity, and a commitment to intellectual growth—qualities that college admissions officers value. Including accolades from reputable contests on college applications can help students stand out in a competitive admissions process.
7. Contribute to Important Conversations: Essay contests provide a platform for students to contribute to ongoing conversations about literature, social issues, science, and more. By sharing their perspectives and insights, students become active participants in shaping the narratives and dialogues that shape our world.
In conclusion, essay contests offer high school students a unique opportunity to develop essential skills, explore their interests, gain recognition, and contribute to meaningful conversations. Whether students aspire to pursue careers in writing, academia, or other fields, the experiences gained through participation in essay contests can have a lasting impact on their personal and professional development.
How High School Essay Contests Can Prepare Students for College
As mentioned above, participating in high school essay contests can serve as a valuable stepping stone for students as they transition to college. Here's how these competitions can help prepare students for success in higher education:
Time Management and Discipline: Successfully completing an essay contest requires discipline, time management, and perseverance. Students must juggle their academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments to research, write, and revise their essays within specified deadlines. This experience helps students cultivate important time management skills that are crucial for balancing the demands of college coursework, part-time jobs, and extracurricular involvement.
Navigating the College Application Process: Many high school essay contests offer prizes such as scholarships, publication opportunities, or recognition that can enhance students' college applications. Participating in these contests allows students to showcase their writing abilities, academic interests, and achievements to college admissions officers. Additionally, receiving accolades or awards from reputable essay contests can strengthen students' college applications and distinguish them from other applicants in a competitive admissions landscape.
Building Confidence and Resilience: The process of researching, writing, and submitting essays for contests can be challenging and intimidating. However, overcoming these challenges fosters resilience and builds confidence in students' abilities to tackle academic and professional endeavors. Successfully navigating the highs and lows of the contest experience prepares students to face the rigors of college coursework with determination and resilience.
10 Essay Contests for High School Students
1. The Profile in Courage Essay Contest
This prestigious contest, hosted by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, seeks to inspire the next generation of leaders by spotlighting acts of political courage. High school students across the United States are invited to delve into the stories of elected officials who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of adversity. Participants are tasked with crafting original essays that analyze the significance of these individuals' actions and their impact on society. By engaging with real-world examples of leadership and moral integrity, students not only sharpen their writing skills but also deepen their understanding of the principles that underpin democracy. With cash prizes and national recognition up for grabs, the Profile in Courage Essay Contest offers young writers a platform to explore the intersection of politics and personal integrity.
2. The National High School Essay Contest
Sponsored by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), this esteemed competition challenges high school students to tackle pressing global issues through the lens of peacebuilding. Participants are invited to choose a current conflict or conflict resolution effort and propose innovative solutions to promote peace and stability. Through rigorous research and thoughtful analysis, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of international relations and the power of diplomacy. Winners not only receive scholarships but also earn the opportunity to engage with policymakers and experts during an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. By participating in the National High School Essay Contest, students not only demonstrate their intellectual prowess but also showcase their commitment to creating a more peaceful world.
3. The Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
The Ayn Rand Institute's Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest invites high school seniors to explore Ayn Rand's influential novel and its philosophical themes. Participants are tasked with crafting essays that delve into the ideas of individualism, capitalism, and the role of government in society as depicted in the novel. Through their analysis, students grapple with complex moral and economic concepts, honing their critical thinking skills and deepening their understanding of Rand's Objectivist philosophy. With substantial cash prizes on offer, including scholarships for higher education, this contest provides an opportunity for young intellectuals to engage with timeless ideas that continue to shape contemporary discourse.
4. The EngineerGirl Essay Contest
Organized by the National Academy of Engineering, the EngineerGirl Essay Contest invites high school students to explore the ways in which engineering can address pressing societal challenges. Participants are encouraged to tackle a variety of topics, from sustainability and renewable energy to healthcare and infrastructure development. By researching and writing about these issues, students not only sharpen their writing and research skills but also gain insight into the innovative solutions that engineers contribute to our world. With cash prizes and recognition for outstanding essays, this contest empowers young minds to envision a future where engineering serves as a catalyst for positive change.
5. The Ocean Awareness Student Contest
From the Bow Seat's Ocean Awareness Student Contest invites high school students from around the globe to creatively explore pressing environmental issues related to the ocean. Participants can express their perspectives through essays, poetry, artwork, or multimedia presentations, fostering a diverse range of voices and approaches. By addressing topics such as climate change, marine pollution, and ocean conservation, students deepen their understanding of environmental challenges and inspire action within their communities. With scholarships, cash prizes, and opportunities for publication, this contest empowers young activists and artists to make a difference for our planet's most vital ecosystem.
6. The Critical Junior Poet's Award Contest
The Critical Junior Poet's Award Contest, hosted by the Critical Pass Review, provides a platform for high school poets to showcase their talent and creativity. Participants can submit up to three original poems for consideration, exploring themes ranging from personal experiences to social issues and beyond. Through their poetry, students engage in self-expression and connect with readers on a deep emotional level, demonstrating the power of language to evoke empathy and understanding. With cash prizes and publication opportunities, this contest celebrates the transformative impact of poetry in the lives of young writers.
7. The Young Patriots Essay Contest
The National Center for Policy Analysis sponsors the Young Patriots Essay Contest, inviting high school students to reflect on the principles of American freedom and their relevance in today's society. Participants explore topics such as individual liberty, free markets, and the rule of law, drawing connections between historical principles and contemporary challenges. By articulating their perspectives on these fundamental ideals, students sharpen their critical thinking skills and deepen their appreciation for the principles that define our nation. With cash prizes and scholarships available, this contest honors the intellectual curiosity and civic engagement of young patriots across the United States.
8. The National WWII Museum Student Essay Contest
The National WWII Museum Student Essay Contest offers high school students a unique opportunity to delve into the history and lessons of World War II. Participants are tasked with exploring a specific theme related to the war and its impact on society, politics, culture, or individual experiences. By conducting research, analyzing primary sources, and crafting well-reasoned arguments, students gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal period in history and its enduring significance. Additionally, participating in this contest allows students to engage with diverse perspectives, reflect on the complexities of war and conflict, and draw connections between past events and contemporary issues. With cash prizes, scholarships, and the chance for publication, the National WWII Museum Student Essay Contest not only rewards academic excellence but also encourages students to become thoughtful and informed citizens who understand the importance of preserving and learning from history.
9. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, administered by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, is one of the most prestigious and longest-running recognition programs for creative teens in the United States. This contest celebrates the talent and creativity of students in grades 7-12 across various artistic and literary disciplines, including essay writing. Participants can submit original works in categories such as personal essay/memoir, critical essay, and dramatic script. By entering the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, students have the opportunity to gain national recognition for their writing prowess and artistic vision. With scholarships, publication opportunities, and exhibition showcases available to winners, this contest empowers young writers to share their stories and perspectives with a wider audience, fostering a vibrant community of aspiring authors and literary innovators.
10. The Bennington Young Writers Awards
Sponsored by Bennington College, the Bennington Young Writers Awards recognize excellence in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction by high school students in grades 10-12. Participants can submit original works in any of these genres for consideration, showcasing their literary talent and creativity. Through their writing, students explore diverse themes and styles, from personal narratives to imaginative storytelling and poetic expression. With cash prizes and scholarships available, this contest celebrates the literary achievements of young writers and provides opportunities for their work to be recognized and appreciated by a wider audience.
Conclusion
Essay contests offer high school students a chance to express themselves, explore their interests, and hone their writing skills. Whether you're passionate about politics, literature, science, or social issues, there's a contest out there waiting for your voice. So, why not take the plunge and share your thoughts with the world? Who knows, you might just be the next award-winning writer!
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