The Essay contest is sponsored by Optimist International to give young people the opportunity to write about their own opinions regarding the world in which they live. The approach can encompass a young person’s personal experience, the experience of their country or a more historical perspective. In addition to developing skills for written expression, participants also have the opportunity win a college scholarship of $2,500!
Interested students submit essays on the pre-assigned topic to their local Optimist Club. The essays are judged at the club level and district level.
The contest is open to students residing in Orange or Durham counties who have not graduated from high school or the equivalent and who will be under the age of 19 as of their school’s graduation date this academic year. There is no minimum age. Students who have previously won an Optimist International Essay Contest Scholarship are not eligible to compete in this competition. See the official contest rules for additional eligibility requirements.
For this year's contest, the topic is: "Optimism Should be a Priority".
700-800 words (Title, footnotes and bibliography are not included in the final word count.)
Club level - The winner of the club contest will be awarded a medallion and a $100 prize and will be automatically entered into the District contest.
District Level - The District winner will receive a plaque and a $2500 college scholarship.
Essay Contest Chair
Robert Verne
6803 Turkey Farm Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
(919) 942-4144
rverne44@gmail.com
Key Dates
All entries for this year's contest must be received by the Essay Contest chair by February 15, 2015. Along with the entry application, each contestant must submit proof of age (copy of birth certificate or passport) and a copy of the essay in the format specified in the rules.
Club contest winner will be notified by March 15, 2015.