The College of Southern Marylands diversity and equal opportunity department invites tri-county high school juniors and seniors to participate in its black history month essay contest by Feb. 15.
The winner of CSMs Black History Month Essay Contest will receive a $500 performance award toward attendance at CSM and will have the opportunity to read the winning essay at the colleges annual Try College for a Day program Feb. 29.
Contest participants are asked to write an original essay of at least 500 words that responds to one of the following questions:
· America is often referred to as a mosaic of many cultures and people. Why is it important to understand and value diversity in America?
· Dr. Martin Luther King had a dream of America; he believed that equality and justice would eventually be enjoyed by all Americans, regardless of the color of skin. What is the status of that dream? Is it coming true?
· Most leaders in our community say that many of our social problems will be resolved by education. How will a college education benefit you?
· Why is it important to learn about the history of African Americans?
Essays must be typed, double-spaced and free of all grammatical and syntax errors. Submissions will be judged on the content, clarity and coherence of the essays topic as it is expressed throughout the essay.
Essays need to include a title page which lists the title of the students paper, school of attendance, and the students contact information including address and telephone number.
Entries must be submitted by Feb. 15 to the College of Southern Maryland, Black History Month Essay Contest, c/o Robyn Wood (DIV), 8730 Mitchell Rd., Md. 20646-0910. For information, call 301-934-7659, 301-884-8131, Ext. 7659 or 301-870-3008, Ext. 7