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Chancellor's Essay & Writing Contest

Theme: Trauma 2 Resiliency

Win a $2,500 Scholarship!

Writing Prompt

"The traumas of my life can’t be undone, but I can heal and grow, and perhaps my stories can have an impact and help others who may be going through something similar."

Dr. Maya Angelou

In the present day, many young people are dealing with negativity from various sources. We invite you to share a personal story of trauma and resiliency.

In a 5-paragraph essay, tell us about some of the traumas you have gone through personally in your life—and how you came through it with resiliency (toughness).

Your story should align with the conference theme, "Trauma 2 Resiliency," and be something you are comfortable sharing.

Contest Requirements

  • Eligibility: Open to all high school students in BRCC Dual Enrollment Programs, BRCC TRIO Upward Bound Students, and all Baton Rouge Community College students.
  • Format: 2-3 pages, double-spaced, 12-point Times New Roman font.
  • Citations: Proper MLA heading, in-text citations, and a works cited page are required. Only one outside source (article or book) is permitted.
  • Submission File: Your essay MUST be submitted as a PDF attachment.
  • Deadline: Wednesday, November 5th by 5:00 PM.
  • How to Submit: Email your PDF to essays@mybrcc.edu.
  • Required Information: The body of your email must include your full name, telephone number, and the school you attend.

Scholarships

  • 1st Place: $2,500
  • 2nd Place: $500
  • 3rd Place: $300

Winners will be invited to read their essays at the 2nd Annual Trauma2Resiliency Conference on Wednesday, November 12th.

Essay Structure Guide ("The Formula")

Use this rubric to develop your essay. For full details, see "The Formula" textbook available at the BRCC Campus Bookstore.

  • Grabber: 1-2 sentences (quote, question, statistic).
  • Introduce Topic: 3-4 sentences.
  • Thesis Statement: 1 sentence with three points.

  • Topic Sentence: 1 sentence with transition.
  • First Example: 1 sentence.
  • Direct Quote: 1-4 sentences from your source.
  • Explanation of Quote: 3-4 sentences.
  • Second Example: 1 sentence.
  • Direct Quote: 1-4 sentences.
  • Explanation of Quote: 3-4 sentences.
  • Concluding Sentence: 1 sentence.

  • Restate Thesis: 1 sentence with transition.
  • Connect to Introduction: 1-2 sentences.
  • Summarize Main Points: 3-4 sentences.
  • Final Thought/Advice: 1 sentence.