WS Chronicle

The National Association of University Women (NAUW) sponsored an essay writing workshop at Carver High School for the seniors on Jan. 17 in the media center. Arneathia Brown, second vice president of the NAUW and guidance counselor at Carver, discussed how students can plan ahead and write a solid essay to compete for  scholarships and to seek admittance to the colleges of their choice. More than 30 seniors participated in the workshop.

“Teaching students how to master essay writing is important for the National Association of University Women because our organization is committed to helping students pursue academic excellence,” said Brown. “NAUW provides scholarships annually to students so that they can attend college.”

The NAUW distributes the Book Scholarship application annually at Carver High School. This scholarship is for a graduating high school senior from a school in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School District who wishes to enroll at Winston-Salem State University as a full-time degree-seeking student. The student must meet the required grade point average and complete an essay regarding his or her educational and career aspirations. The student must also explain his or her goals for the future, as well as the reasons for selecting Winston-Salem State University as the school of choice.

Felecia Piggott-Long, English instructor at Carver High School, shared essay-writing tips about the Dr. Maya Angelou Essay Contest concerning the experience of marginalization, stereotyping or prejudice because of sexism, racism, or injustice. She encouraged the English IV students to make sure they understand the definitions of the words they plan to use in the essay.

 “Use clear, concrete examples of experiences you have had with these challenges,” said Piggott-Long. “You need a solid thesis statement in your introduction paragraph and reasons, examples and anecdotes that clarify your thesis statement. This is expository writing, writing that explains. Your conclusion should be strong and direct.”

The Dr. Maya Angelou Essay Writing Contest, “We Must Not Be Defeated,” is open to WS/FCS high school seniors (Class of 2023 only). First place is awarded a $5,000 scholarship, second place $3,000, and third place $1,800. All essays must be submitted by March 17, 2023. Prizes will be awarded after graduation.

The Dr. Maya Angelou Essay Contest is supported by Dr. Maya Angelou Foundation, Thamiah Tutt, chief executive officer of the Maya Angelou Foundation; Tricia McManus, WS/FCS superintendent; Dr. Paula Wilkins, WS/FCS chief academic officer; Melissa Agee, WS/FCS director of secondary ELA; and Karen Meier, WS/FCS director of library media services.  

For more information, contact Melissa Agee-Magee@wsfcs.k12.nc.us or contact Karen Meier at ksmeier@wsfcs.k12.nc.us.

NAUW officers are: President, Dr. Malishai Woodbury; 1st Vice President, Barbara Harriett; 2nd Vice President, Arneathia Brown; Secretary, Alma Flood; Corresponding Secretary, Tasia Wilson; Financial Secretary, Geraldine Davis; and Treasurer, Catherine Kennedy.