Below are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the 2024 NJTL Essay Contest.
What are the Essay questions this year?
AGES 8 - 12:
In your opinion, who is the greatest of all time and why?
AGES 13-18:
What qualities & attributes elevate an individual to the greatest of all time? Who do you consider the greatest of all time in your life? Share a personal story about this individual and describe how they impacted you.
What are the key dates associated with the 2024 NJTL Essay Contest?
- Submission start date: The NJTL Essay Contest will begin on April 2nd 2024.
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Submission deadline: The deadline to submit your essay via the online portal is June 11, 2024, 11:59 pm EDT. Please check with your local NJTL Chapter for local deadlines.
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Notification of results: Winners will be notified by July 30, 2024.
How do I submit my essay?
This year, all students will submit essays online! Your local NJTL chapter will provide you with a QR code or URL to take you to an online portal where you can submit your essay.
You must type your essay into the space provided in the online portal. We will only accept texts that are 500 words or less.
Visit your local NJTL chapter to receive your chapter’s unique QR code or URL so you can type and submit your essay.
Can I write my essay on paper?
Your final essay MUST be submitted online. We suggest writing drafts of your essay on paper or in a Word Document and then typing a final draft on your computer as a saved document. As with scholarship and college applications, this year’s NJTL National Essay Contest submissions must all be entered online. Visit your NJTL for the QR code or URL to access the submission page.
How will I know that my essay was submitted correctly?
Once you press submit, you will see a webpage that confirms the entry. Once you submit your essay, your NJTL Chapter will be able to see the entries and validate that you are an NJTL student. You can check with your local chapter leader to ensure everything is submitted if you need extra confirmation.
How do I submit my Essay Contest Entry Form?
In addition to your online submitted essay, you must also submit an Essay Contest Entry Form. Your
signed physical copy (paper) Essay Contest Form must be completed, signed, and turned into your NJTL
Chapter. They will then verify your essay submission and that your Essay Contest Entry Form is
completed.
When are the New York trip dates?
The ten national winners will visit New York City from August 21 to August 24, 2024. Each winner may bring one adult chaperone. Flights, hotels, and meals are included, as provided for under the Official
Contest Rules.
What if I use the wrong link to submit my essay?
Please contact your local NJTL leader for assistance or contact njtl@usta.com.
Can I write more than 500 words?
No. The Essay is limited to 500 words. Only 500 words or less will be accepted!
When is the essay contest webinar?
This year’s Essay Contest Webinar will be on Wednesday, March 27, 4 pm—5 pm EDT. The intended audience is Chapter Leaders, Educational Specialists, and any coaches supporting the students' writing process. Dr. Jennifer Winward of Winward Academy, USTA Foundation’s educational partner, will present again this year. The webinar will provide practical support for leaders, coaches, and teachers as they implement the essay contest for their NJTL students.
Recordings will be available for those unable to attend.
Where can I find the Terms & Conditions?
The Terms & Conditions to the 2024 USTA Foundation National Essay Contest can be found here:
https://www.ustafoundation.com/essay_question_and_rules/
This FAQ is provided as an overview; however, for additional information as to the entire process, timeline, and requirements please see the official Contest Rules.