StraightTalk Student Op-Ed Contest
As part of an ongoing effort to engage Furman students and the broader community alike around critical issues, the Riley Institute presents the 2025 StraightTalk Student Op-Ed Contest. The author of the winning submission will receive a $1,000 prize and have their piece published by the Greenville Journal. The deadline for entry has now passed.
Learn about StraightTalk 2025The Prompt
National polls show that Americans, especially younger adults, are losing faith in the “American dream” and, in some cases, beginning to define it differently. More obstacles stand in the way of attaining economic security and prosperity for younger generations than existed in the past.
How do you define the American dream, and do you think it is possible to achieve today? How can Gen Z Americans effect change for the American dream to be more attainable for themselves and for the generations to come?
Submission Guidelines & Judging Criteria
Eligibility: Open to all undergraduate Furman students
Word Limit: 400 words (submissions over 400 words will not be considered)
Submission deadline: Wednesday, September 17 at 11:59 p.m.
Top award: $1000 prize and op-ed published in the Greenville Journal
Questions? Email [email protected].
Judging Criteria
Members of the Riley Institute staff, Furman faculty, and a local journalist will review submissions and select the winner based on the judging criteria posted below. The winning entry:
- Stays at 400 words or under – submissions over 400 words will not be considered.
- Makes a clear, actionable statement related to the given prompt
- Offers compelling support for the statement
- Reflects an understanding of current issues impacting the American Dream
- Is written in language accessible to the general public with appropriate tone
- Connects to current events and/or is relevant to the present moment
- Engages the reader
For more information on best practices for op-ed writing, read this guide provided by Duke University.