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ABOUT THE CONTEST:

The “$mart Kid” Essay Contest is aimed at helping students develop knowledge of economic and personal finance concepts, understand budgets and value the importance of financial planning and become better prepared for their future roles as consumers, investors, and employees. In support of Financial Literacy Month, the Financial Fitness Greater Austin (FFGA) “$mart Kid” Essay Contest, presented by Capital One Bank, encourages students in middle and high school in the Greater Austin area to answer this year’s "$mart Kid" question. Middle school students in grades 6-8 are encouraged to answer the question with an essay of 300 words or less, and high school students in grades 9-12 are asked to answer the question in 500 words or less.

Four scholarships will be awarded:

• High School: 1st Place - $2,500 2nd Place - $1,000
• Grades 6th- 8th: 1st Place - $1,000 2nd Place - $500

Winners and their parents also receive a free financial consultation. The prize money will be deposited in an appropriate savings product in the students’ name.

THIS YEAR'S QUESTION:

"You want to make a difference in this world and your dream is to attend college. However, your family does not have enough money to pay for your education along with the other bills. Together, you and your family need to find ways to afford college." In answering this question, make sure to address all of the following points:

1. What do you want to be when you grow up?
2. How would attending college impact you, your family and the community?
3. What are the biggest challenges to afford college?
4. What actions and potential solutions can you and your family take to make college affordable?

We look forward to your participation with this exciting opportunity from FFGA and Capital One Bank. For more information, please visit www.FinancialFitnessAustin.org.

GUIDELINES:

Candidates Must:

• Submit their essay.
• Be a student in middle or high school in the Greater Austin Area.
• Have an interest in money management skills (decision-making related to spending and saving, investing, use of credit, etc.) appropriate for their age and grade level.
• Demonstrate how they practice good money management skills in their daily lives.
• Be able to “think on their feet” –responding to questions from business leaders and media.
• Be articulate –able to speak in front of large groups and cameras, and respond well to questions.
• Live in the Greater Austin area.
• Must have a valid Social Security Number.

To Apply:

• The deadline for essay submissions was April 1, 2015.