Megan Garringer
Staff Writer
It was unexpected to see a High School student, like Junior Bridget Hawkins, to advance in the Economist’s Open Future essay contest as far as she did.
Hawkins has been passionate towards writing since she was in elementary school, said Hawkins. She became aware of the contest through the Model United Nations teacher, Mr. Knutson, when he posted instructions to enter on his bulletin.
“Expressing myself through writing is something that I’ve always found liberating,” Hawkins said. “My goal is to make a future for myself with a career that allows me to continue to pursue this passion.”
The Open Future Essay Contest is meant for young writers and accepts essay submissions from 16-25 year-olds. The guidelines are split into five themes; borders, ideas, markets, society, and progress. In Hawkin’s case, she chose the prompt, what should a commitment to free speech on college campuses entail?
“It’s my belief that restricting free speech, even with the intent to promote diversity and inclusivity, limits your own cause,” Hawkins said.
After drafting and editing, Hawkins waited approximately two months until receiving an email from The Economist. Out of the 1,500 writers that had submitted essays, Hawkins made the final round of consideration.
“It would have been awesome to win obviously, but I’m grateful to have gotten as far as I did,” Hawkins said.
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