This program enhances Rice’s relationship to a High School audience generally not represented in substantial ways in its undergraduate population. Students at some of the more economically challenged HISD high schools are invited to participate in this essay contest that encourages them to think creatively about solutions to problems facing their communities. Winners receive scholarships and a Princeton Review SAT Preparation course taught at the Rice Campus. All entrants are invited to Rice for an essay-writing workshop that includes presentations from admissions/financial aid counselors.
Participating Schools & Students
- Houston Independent School District (HISD)
- Title One schools (with acceptable or recognized rating from the Texas Education Agency)
- Sophomores & Juniors (with 3.0 GPA or Top 10% of their class)
Contest
Students write an essay (500-750 words) on a topic meant to engage critical thinking. The Selection Committee (composed of Rice faculty/staff/students) will review the essays and select the winners. The review committee’s criteria are as follows:
- Complexity of thought
- Ambitious and well structured approach to the designated topic
- Successful argumentation and execution of the idea
- Compliance with the length limitation
Academic Support
CERCL is committed to developing awardees’ overall scholarly excellence and maximizing their potential as college applicants
- School Visits
Rice students visit participating high schools each year - Writing workshop
All entrants attend a full day workshop covering general and college essay writing, an admissions talk and tour of Rice campus - Princeton Review SAT Prep Course
Top ten essay writers attend a summer intensive Princeton Review SAT preparation course - Relationship Building
Through close contact with Title I Coordinators, College Coordinators, English Department Chairs and teachers we are able to offer opportunities for collaboration and partnerships with other Rice departments and our community partners
Prizes
The Charlos Ward and Lee M. Riley Awards
- First Place - $1000
- Second Place - $750
- Third Place - $500
Top 10 students attend a summer intensive Princeton Review SAT Prep course at Rice University
Plaque for the School with five or more winning essays
College essay and admissions workshop at Rice University for all students who enter the contest
In the News
CERCL's founding Director, Anthony Pinn, the Agnes Cullen Arnold Professor of Humanities and professor of religious studies, and Ana Cuello, the first place winner of our 2009 Essay Contest were featured on KRIV-TV's 'Hola Houston'.
Previous Essay Contest Questions
- 2008
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“What is the most important issue facing Houston during the Twenty-First Century?”
- 2009
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“If you were President Obama’s Chief Advisor, what national issue would you suggest the president address first and why?”
- 2010
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“You have been asked to be a candidate for Mayor of Houston, and you will need to start your campaign immediately. In a press conference you have been asked to respond to this question: In troubled economic times, and in light of the diversity and growth of Houston over the next decade, how do you plan to improve the quality of life for its citizens?”
- 2011
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“Houston is the fourth largest city in the nation, and this growth has great benefit but it also results in significant challenges. One of these major challenges involves transportation and the best way to maintain the safety of drivers and those using public transportation. The Mayor of Houston has asked you to serve as the chairperson of a new task force on transportation in Houston. What would you identify as the most important issue to address and why?”
- 2012
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"Health care is a major issue in the United States, and it has received a great deal of attention and energy. If you were a candidate for the presidency of the United States in 2012, what solution would you offer regarding this problem? Imagine yourself giving a campaign speech in Houston, how would you relate your solution to the particular health care challenges facing Houstonians?"
- 2013
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"Recent killings in schools have raised questions regarding gun ownership. While President Obama has called for new thinking on the issue of firearms to prevent such tragedies from happening again, and has commissioned a report from Vice-President Biden, various states hold differing opinions. You have been commissioned by the governor of Texas to study the issue of school safety and firearms and to present a report answering this question: What is the best way to protect schools from gun violence and what regulations are necessary to carry out your plan?"
- 2014
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"In the 21st century, we use computers, software programs and other technologies in everyday life. In order to take advantage of shifting technology, the HISD Superintendent has asked you to serve as the chairperson of a new task force on technology and education. The task force has been asked to present a report answering this question: How should HISD use digital learning to transform schools and education in Houston, and what technology should be used to accomplish this?"
- 2015
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“If you were President Obama’s Chief Advisor, what national issue would you suggest the president address first and why?”
- 2016
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“Mayor Turner has appointed you to his Houston Metro Task Force. In your first report, he has asked you to respond to this question: What would you identify as the most important issue to address during his term and why?”
- 2017
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“Climate change is a major global issue that has received a great deal of attention in recent years. If you were in charge of The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), what solutions would you offer regarding this problem? Imagine yourself giving a speech in Houston. How would you address climate change? Relate your solution to the particular climate-change challenges facing Houstonians.”
- 2018
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“Immigration is a major issue in the United States, and it has received a great deal of attention and energy. Mayor Sylvester Turner and Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo have been outspoken on the subject of "sanctuary cities" and congress has been charged with working on an immigration policy that addresses Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and border security. Imagine yourself giving a speech about immigration to members of congress. What ideas and solutions would you propose? Relate your solutions to the particular challenges facing Houstonians.”
- 2019
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Young people are leading movements all over the world on issues including climate change, gun violence, and economic empowerment. Tell us about a local movement, what they are doing, why it's necessary and how you and other youth can support it. Or, tell us about a movement that your community needs, what work your movement would do and how you would convince other youth to join you.
- 2021
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"COVID 19 has affected and will continue to affect healthcare, education, economy, travel and social interaction on a global, national and local scale. Mayor Turner and Judge Hidalgo have appointed you to their Houston COVID Task Force. In your first report, they have asked you to respond to this question: What would you identify as the most important issue caused by COVID 19 and how would you propose to address it.”
- 2022
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“Inclusive curriculum has become a popular topic of discussion among curriculum specialists and government officials. You’ve been asked to research and write a report to the HISD Superintendent about inclusivity in curriculum and public education in Houston. This is a multi part assignment. First, define “inclusive curriculum” and then give your recommendation(s) on ways that it can add marginalized voices to the HISD curriculum. Please remember to cite your sources and give descriptive examples.”
- 2023
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“In recent years, affirmative action policies in the United States have been the subject of intense debate and controversy. Imagine yourself standing before the United States Congress, delivering a persuasive speech on the topic of affirmative action. In your essay, discuss the extent to which affirmative action is still relevant and necessary in today's society. Analyze the potential advantages and disadvantages of affirmative action policies, considering their impact on both individuals and the broader goals of equal opportunity and diversity.”