Essay

Topic: "Optimism:How It Connects Us"

Purpose 

Optimist International sponsors this contest to give young people room to develop their own views around a central idea. In addition to the opportunity for written expression, participants can win a college scholarship!

How to Enter

Interested students should submit essays on the assigned topic by January 31, 2024, at 5:00 PM to the Middleton Area Optimist Club Essay Chair.  

Eligibility Criteria 

The contest is open to contestants under the age of 19 as of October 1st of the current Optimist International contest year (October 1 – September 30) and who have not yet completed secondary school or its equivalent, including CEGEP students in Québec, Canada. There is no minimum age.

Length 

700-800 words (Title, footnotes, and bibliography are not included in the final word count). Hyphenated words count as one (1) word. Words are to be counted manually.

Prizes

• 1st Place - $250  & will move on to the district contest with the opportunity to win a $2,500 scholarship from Optimist International. 
• 2nd Place - $150