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2023 Winner Announced!

With over 70 entries, it was hard to find a winner.
Also check out about our other scholarships.

About Our 2023 Essay Scholarship

California Freethought Day believes that secular rights, science, social justice, civic engagement, and the First Amendment should be celebrated, and wants to support students as they further their education.
To further that goal, we launched an essay scholarship contest for high school students in California.
We awarded $1,000 to a student who answered this question in the form of a 300-500 word essay:
Why is science education so important?

The Winner

Science, oh science! It's like a magical potion that unveils the secrets of the universe, and I am spellbound by its power. Growing up in beautiful California, where we're fortunate to have reproductive freedom, I've come to realize just how essential science is in shaping my life, my choice, and my future. Science isn't just a subject I study in school; it's a force that touches every aspect of my existence. It's the reason we have smartphones that read our minds, medicine that heals us, and the understanding of how our world works. It's like having a backstage pass to the concert of life. Living in a state where I can freely make choices about my reproductive health has made me appreciate the incredible strides science has taken.From contraceptives that put control in my hands to the innovative advancements in reproductive health, science empowers me to make informed decisions about my body and future. But science doesn't just impact us on an individual level; it's a driving force behind progress and change. California's vast and breathtaking landscapes, the ocean, deserts, and snowy mountains, are a constant reminder of the beauty we must protect. Science has shown us the effects of our actions on the environment, inspiring movements to safeguard our planet for generations to come. In school, when I am learning about biology, chemistry, or physics, I'm not just learning about equations and elements. I'm embarking on a journey to understand the very foundation of life. Learning about genetics, evolution, and reproductive health, I'm equipped with knowledge that empowers me to make informed choices about my future. Beyond the classroom, science invites us to question, explore, and create. The experiments we conduct, the hypotheses we formulate – they're like keys to unlocking doors we didn't even know existed. It's an amazing adventure! So, why is science important? It's the bridge between the known and the unknown. It's the flashlight that guides us through the darkness of ignorance. It's the compass that points us in the right direction, even when the path is unclear. It's the tool that empowers me, a Californian free from reproductive restrictions, to make choices that align with my beliefs and aspirations. As I stand at the beginning of my journey, I am excited to unlock the wonders of science. I'm ready to explore, learn, and contribute to the ongoing discussions of human understanding. From the intricate complexities of the human body to the vast mysteries of the cosmos, science is the ultimate adventure, and I am here for it, ready to leave my mark on the world.
Alexandria Epting
Temecula, CA
Great Oak High School
Member of Peer Leaders, helping other students with issues in their lives. Founding member of Unity Games Club where students work with students with special needs and play sports with them.

For More Information, Contact, and Questions

Questions regarding the scholarship can be directed to scholarships@FreethoughtDay.org.

Recognition

We would like to recognize Scholarship Impact for their assistance with this scholarship.
✉️ Contact Us
California Freethought Day Committee
PO Box 15464, Sacramento, CA 95851
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