Contest Guidelines
For this contest, we invite you to write an original essay in 500 words or fewer.
You may choose to answer one or both prompts, but only one submission per prompt.
The contest is open to students world-wide in two divisions, High School students and Middle School students
Due to the volume of entries, only the winners will be notified on our website. Unfortunately, we cannot provide personal and critical feedback on individual submissions.
Contest winners will be announced by April 15th, 2024.
Contest Prompts
Reflect on climate change. How has it impacted you, and what do you think should be done to address this issue?
Dive into the complexities of artificial intelligence: is it a problem or the future? Inquire the intricacies, ethical dilemmas, and some potential impacts of artificial intelligence in our societies.
Alternatively, observe something in your community: is there a noteworthy issue in your local area that you wish to be addressed? Share your insights and propose solutions. Feel free to write your piece in any genre: science fiction, creative writing, etc.
Prizes
First Prize – $300 value
Second Prize – $100 value
Third Prize – $50 value
Honorable mention – $10 value
How To Enter
Submissions are due on our website by Feb 28 , 2024 at 11:59 p.m. (PST)
Questions? Contact us at siliconvalleyyouthchannel@gmail.com!
Rules
Choose a question from the list of prompts to answer
Brainstorm a few answers and decide on an idea that will persuade or spark interest in the reader, making sure the issue or topic you select is something you care about.
You must be 18 years old or younger
The SVYC Essay contest is targeted towards students 18 or younger anywhere in the world, and is categorized into two divisions: High school (Rising 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th graders) and Middle School or below.
Your essay must not exceed 500 words, so be concise and effective with your words
Make sure the ideas you are trying to convey are specific enough to realistically and thoroughly investigate within the word limit.
You may submit more than one essay, but only one per prompt
All entries must be submitted by February 28th, 2024. Late entries will not be accepted
When editing your work after you finish writing, verify that your intentions and language are clear
Confirm that your essay answers the following questions: Is the prompt I chose clearly answered? How well does my answer connect to the prompt? What message do I want my reader to be left with?
Your essay must be your own
You can do some research and look at sources that offer a range of perspectives, but ultimately the opinions and ideas must be your own. Plagiarism in any form or amount will not be tolerated.
Judges
Cupertino City
Council Member
Professor in the English & Comparative Lit. SJSU
Silicon Valley Youth Channel 