Win Up to $10,000 in ‘Profiles in Courage’ Essay Contest

By: Jen Russon

In Profiles in Courage, John F. Kennedy recounted the stories of eight U.S. senators who risked their careers to do what was right for the nation. 

In recognition of the year Kennedy was born, The John F. Kennedy Library Foundation is soliciting creative and original essays about brave politicians elected during or after 1917.

The first prize winner will be awarded $10,000. The second-place winner will receive $3,000. Five finalists can expect to earn $1,000 each, with a small cash prize awarded to eight semi-finalists.

The nationwide contest is free and open to high school students in grades 9 through 12, whether they attend private, public, or charter schools.

Essays need to clock in at no more than 1,000 words, not including citations and bibliography. Each essay submitted must use at least five varied sources, such as government documents, letters, newspaper articles, books, or personal interviews.

All submissions must adhere to contest requirements. The contest deadline is at midnight (EST) on January 15, 2021.

The Profile in Courage Award Committee will notify winners by April 30. All participants will receive a certificate of participation. 

Interested students may submit their entries here.

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