Essay topic:
"Building Community: Bridging
Our Differences"
Write an original essay about developing understanding and
cooperation among people from diverse backgrounds in the Rochester area. Some
differences you might explore are ethnic, national, cultural, racial, religious,
economic, sexual orientation, or disabilities. You are encouraged to describe
your own experience and to develop some practical ideas for bridging differences,
improving mutual understanding, and building community.
Eligibility:
The contest is open to all secondary school students,
grades 9-12, who live or attend school in Monroe County.
Format:
- Prepare your essay on a computer, single-spaced, using a 12-point font.
- Your essay must be 2 to 3 pages long.
- Submit three hard copies without your name included; attach a signed Registration
Form to one copy.
- Also, send a copy of your essay as an attachment to an e-mail addressed
to the Contest Administrator. On the subject line write "Essay Submission",
and as the message give your name and address.
Judging:
Essays will be read by judges from the Rochester
area who represent different backgrounds. Criteria for judging will include:
clarity of expression, depth of thought, quality of writing, , organization,
appropriateness to the topic, length, and effective discussion of the topic.
Prizes:
- First prize: $150
- Second prize: $100
- Third prize: $50
- Honorable
Mention: Up to eight awards of $25 each
Registration:
Your official entry, consisting of a Registration
Form and three copies of your essay, must be postmarked no later than October
27, 2006. Send all materials to:
Building Community Essay Contest
c/o Third Presbyterian Church
4 Meigs Street, Rochester, NY 14607
Contact:
Address any questions to the Contest Administrator,
Patricia Sanborn. Call her at (585) 334-0144 or send e-mail to:
pesldc@rit.edu. Please identify "Essay
Contest" in the subject line if you send e-mail.
Posters Available:
A printable poster about the contest is available
here for downloading.
