Write an Essay, Win Money for College

FIRE’s “Freedom in Academia” Essay Contest
https://www.thefire.org/contest.essay.php

U.S. high school seniors are invited to watch two short videos about real students who were censored and punished for speech that is protected by the U.S. Constitution. Then, "in 700-1200 words, please discuss the videos you have seen and explain how these universities betrayed the purpose of a university and violated the constitutional guarantees of free expression. Focus on why such codes and practices are incompatible with higher education and why free speech is important in our nation's colleges and universities." Visit the contest link for more information and details.
Deadline: November 6, 2009
Prize: $5,000



First Freedom Student Competition
http://www.firstfreedom.org/education/students.html

U.S. high school students in grades 9-12 are invited to submit essays examining religious freedom and its relevance in their lives. This year's topic: "Why should international religious freedom matter to you as a young American? Is the United States commitment to monitor and advance religious freedom consistent with American legal and political history? Why should it be United States policy to advance this international human right? How does this responsibility lie 'in your hands' for you both as an individual and as a member of a community?" Visit the contest link for more information and details.
Deadlines: Register online by November 23, 2009. Submit your essay by November 28, 2009.
Prize: $3,000

Cool Scholarship Opportunities

Krylon Clear Choice Art Scholarship
http://www.krylon.com/krylon-weblogic/art/

High school seniors, college freshmen, and college sophomores majoring in a visual arts program such as painting, drawing or sketching (excluding graphic design, interior design, film, music or the performing arts) are invited to submit portfolios of 3-6 high resolution images of their art work. An artist's statement, letter of recommendation, and transcript are also required to apply.

Deadline: May 31, 2009
Prize: $1000 + gift package of Krylon sprays and adhesives
Rules & Application Form: http://www.krylon.com/pdf/Krylon_Art_Scholarship_App.pdf



National Sculpture Society Scholarship
http://www.nationalsculpture.org/nss/index.cfm/method/main.scholarships

Scholarships are awarded for figurative or representational works of sculpture. Students must submit images of their sculptures on a CD. Applicants must also submit letters of recommendation and proof of financial need. Complete rules and additional details are available at the NSS website.

Deadline: June 1, 2009
Prize: $2,000



Swakhamer Video Contest for the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation
http://www.wagingpeace.org/menu/programs/awards-&-contests/video-contest/2009/index.htm

President Obama has stated, “This is the moment to begin the work of seeking the peace of a world without nuclear weapons.” How can we achieve a world free of nuclear weapons by the year 2020? Once this is achieved, how can we make sure that the “nuclear genie” stays in the bottle forever? Make a video of 3 minutes or less addressing these questions.

Deadline: June 15, 2009
Prize: $1000

Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Contest
http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=cmty.leveld&did=150

The Voice of Democracy National Audio Essay Contest is open to students in grades 9 through 12. You must write and record an essay of between three and five minutes. The theme of your essay must be "Does America still have Heroes?"

Deadline: November 1, 2009
Prize: $30,000