MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey Audubon Society has announced the launch of its annual Scholarship Essay Contest, designed to support and inspire young conservationists in the Monterey Bay region.
The contest provides students with an opportunity to showcase their passion for birds, wildlife and environmental stewardship while competing for a financial scholarship to support their academic pursuits.
This year’s essay prompt is: “Why I want to pursue a career in natural sciences, and/or in a different career in which I can incorporate eco-friendly practices.” Participants are encouraged to explore the importance of bird conservation, the role of community engagement in environmental protection, or personal experiences that have shaped their connection with nature.
The contest is open to graduating high school seniors in Monterey County. Essays will be evaluated by a panel of judges based on originality, clarity and alignment with the Monterey Audubon Society’s mission to conserve and celebrate birds and wildlife.
Scholarship awards are $2,000 (first place), $1,500 (second place) and $1,000 (third place).
Submission guidelines: essays must be 500 words and submitted through a Google Form; the deadline for submission is April 1; and winners will be announced by May 1, and recognized in The Sanderling, the Monterey Audubon Society’s printed annual report.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity to students who are passionate about conservation,” said Shannon Conner, executive director of the Monterey Audubon Society. “By encouraging young writers to explore their relationship with the natural world, we hope to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”
For full contest details and submission instructions, visit MontereyAudubon.org/essaycontest or contact Jan Scott at Ja*******@Mo*************.org.
