# National High School Essay Contest The National High School Essay Contest, hosted by the American Anthropological Association, invites students in grades 9-12 to explore anthropological topics through a creative and critical lens. This annual competition encourages participants to engage in anthropological thinking and develop thoughtful essays that examine human cultures, societies, and behaviors. Designed to inspire interest in the social sciences, the contest is a unique opportunity for high school students to showcase their writing skills and explore how anthropology can help us better understand the world. ## Program Structure The National High School Essay Contest is conducted entirely in a virtual format, making it accessible to students across the United States. Participants are tasked with crafting an essay that aligns with a specific anthropological theme or prompt provided by the American Anthropological Association. The contest typically follows a structured timeline: the essay prompt is announced, students submit their essays by the given deadline, and submissions are evaluated by a panel of experts in anthropology. The contest does not require any prior experience in anthropology, making it an excellent opportunity for students to explore the field for the first time or deepen an existing interest. While the exact timeline and duration of the program may vary each year, students are encouraged to plan their essays thoughtfully and submit them on time to meet the deadline. ## What Students Experience Participants in the National High School Essay Contest gain valuable experience in researching, analyzing, and writing about anthropological topics. The contest provides a chance to explore thought-provoking questions about human culture, society, and history, fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. Through this process, students will strengthen their ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively—an essential skill for both academic and professional success. While there is no direct mentorship component, the contest encourages independent learning and provides a platform for students to receive recognition for their intellectual efforts. Winning essays may also be highlighted by the American Anthropological Association, offering additional visibility for participants' work. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participation in the National High School Essay Contest can significantly enhance a college application. This opportunity demonstrates a student’s ability to engage with complex topics and communicate their ideas effectively. Colleges and universities value applicants who show initiative in pursuing unique interests, especially in fields like social science and anthropology. Winning or even participating in this contest signals a commitment to academic growth and intellectual curiosity, traits that admissions officers look for in prospective students. Additionally, the experience of crafting a well-researched essay provides excellent preparation for college-level writing assignments. ## Eligibility The National High School Essay Contest is open to students currently enrolled in grades 9-12 in the United States. There is no cost to participate, making the program accessible to all eligible students. No prior knowledge of anthropology is required, and students from all academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. ## How to Participate To participate, students should visit the American Anthropological Association’s website to review the contest guidelines and essay prompt. Essays must adhere to the provided instructions, including word count and formatting requirements. Submissions must be uploaded through the online portal by the specified deadline. For more information about the contest, including essay prompts, submission details, and updates, visit [www.americananthro.org](https://www.americananthro.org). Students are encouraged to start early to ensure they have enough time to research, write, and revise their essays before submitting.