2026 Summer Reading Essay Contest

Two winners will receive one $500 Scholarship each
(one Rutherford County high school student and one MTSU incoming freshman or transfer)

All first year students (freshman and transfer) are eligible to submit essays. Essays will be read and evaluated by members of the MTSU faculty and staff. 

Essay Topics

1. The ability to embrace change while holding on to your core values is vital to the success as a college student. How might you achieve this while at MTSU?
2. The historical significance of the Declaration of Independence resonates with Americans from all backgrounds. Define what it means to you as an adult embarking on a new adventure.
3. The collaboration, compromise, and vision of the Continental Congress led to our independence from Britain. How might you contribute to the making of history while at MTSU?

Additional Guidelines

• Essay Length: maximum of 1,000 words
• Formatting: double-spaced, 1-inch margins, 12pt. Times New Roman

Personal Information

• Cover Page: All entries must have a cover sheet that includes your name and essay title.
  • MTSU students: Include M number, MTSU email, and phone number
  • RUCO students: Include high school, senior English teacher, email, and phone number
• Essay: Judging is anonymous, so do not include your name anywhere in your essay. Only include your name on the cover page.
• Originality: Your submission must be an entirely original piece of writing. 
• Deadline: All entries must be submitted by AUGUST 3, 2026, to [email protected] with “Declaring Independence” in the subject line.