Student Essay Contest
The Student Essay Contest by the Association for Women in Mathematics encourages students to write biographical essays about underrepresented gender identities in mathematics based on interviews.
Funder: Association for Women in Mathematics
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2026 (submission opens) | February 2027 (final deadline)
Funding Amounts: Monetary awards, AWM memberships, and certificates for winners and honorable mentions; one Grand Prize, three First Place, and up to three Honorable Mentions per category.
Summary: Annual international essay contest for students to highlight women and underrepresented gender identities in mathematical sciences through biographical essays.
Key Information: Open to middle school, high school, and undergraduate students worldwide; essays must be based on interviews with eligible mathematicians/statisticians.
Description
The Student Essay Contest, co-sponsored by the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM) and Math for America, is an annual competition designed to promote awareness of the contributions of women and individuals from underrepresented gender identities in mathematics. Students are invited to write biographical essays (500–1,000 words) based on interviews they conduct with mathematicians or statisticians who fit the contest’s eligibility requirements. The contest seeks to highlight diverse career paths, foster gender inclusivity, and encourage students to engage directly with professionals in mathematical sciences.
