ASPA Kern County 2011 Scholarship Essay Contest Instructions

The Kern County ASPA chapter is conducting an essay contest for the annual ASPA scholarships. Three winners will each receive a scholarship of $250.

The contest is open to all students enrolled as public administration, political science, business, social science or other related majors at any certified college or university in Kern County.

All essays are judged by the Chapter Council's Scholarship Committee, which awards points based on the essay's cogent and germane approach to the topic issue; unique solutions recommended; and relevant public administration issues addressed. Winners are then chosen and will be announced at the Doubenmier Awards Luncheon on May 26, 2011.

2011 Annual Essay Competition Topics

Students may answer any one of the following three questions but should not answer more than one.

  1. Given the ideological differences between the Republican and Democratic parties at the national level, decision-making has become more complex and difficult for the Congress and the President. In this environment, does the size of the federal deficit present a problem for the U.S. economy and political system? Why or why not? What practical strategies would you suggest for managing or reducing the national debt?
  2. The ideological divisions present at the national level first showed up in California. Given the ideological differences in the California Legislature, what advice would you give to Governor Jerry Brown about closing the remaining $15 billion deficit in the California budget for 2010-2011 and 2011-2012?
  3. According to actuarial consultants for the Kern County Employees' Retirement Association, pension payments make up 15% of the Kern County budget. That percentage may increase in the future if current forecasts are correct. What recommendations would you make to the Kern County Board of Supervisors about ensuring the long-term solvency of Kern County's pension funds?

Eligibility

Process

  1. Complete an essay about the chosen topic.
  2. The essay must be no longer than 800 words, double-spaced, 12 point font, with one-inch margins. Use American Psychological Association (6th ed.) format for the essay. Proper citation, references, grammar, and syntax are expected. Plagiarism will result in automatic disqualification.
  3. Attach a cover sheet to the essay with your name, major, name of college attending, and a contact phone number.
  4. Attach a copy of your current college transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable) demonstrating enrollment.
  5. Provide one (1) letter of recommendation (professional or academic).
  6. Please submit the scholarship essay and related documents as an attachment to the following e-mail address: kernaspa@gmail.com by Thursday, April 28, 2011.
View the flyer

Questions? Please contact Dr. Steven Daniels at rdaniels@csub.edu.