Each year, a number of essay contests are offered that ask students to write on a topic related to the works of Ayn Rand. This year, the “We the Living” Essay Contest is currently being offered to 10th, 11th, and 12th graders.
How do I apply for the “We the Living” Essay Contest?
To apply, you don’t need to submit an application, just your 700-1,500 word, double-spaced essay with the following information included:
- your name and address;
- your e-mail address (if available);
- the name and address of your school;
- topic selected (#1, 2 or 3);
- your current grade level; and
- (optional) the name of the teacher who assigned the essay, if you are completing it for classroom credit.
Your essay can be written on one of the following three topics:
- What does Kira mean when she says that the USSR “forbids life to those still living”?
- The Communist war hero and much feared secret police agent Andrei Taganov is completely devoted to the Party’s cause. Why then does he lose respect for the Party and why does he fall in love with Kira?
- Collectivism preaches the brotherhood of man. How does We the Living show that it achieves the opposite?
What are the scholarship awards?
There will be a first place prize of $3,000, 5 second place prizes of $1,000, 5 third place prizes of $300, 25 finalists (who will receive $50), and 80 semifinalists (each will receive $25).
How do I submit my essay?
Essay must be submitted online or postmarked by May 6, 2013, no later than 11:59 PM, PST. You’ll be notified if you’ve won by July 26, 2013. You can either enter online or submit by snail mail to:
We the Living Essay Contest
The Ayn Rand Institute
P.O. Box 57044
Irvine, CA 92619-7044
