Entries due December 15, 2011

The 2011 Youth Media Competition (YMC) allows current DC public and public charter school students and recent alumni who are in or graduated from college to create media products to share their ideas about the importance of a college education.

Are there prizes? Yes! You can win $$ and cool gifts like an iPad and a Flip Video camcorder! Plus, your class can win up to $3,000. (Seniors, it could help pay for prom!) Your school also could win up to $3,000! (See Awards for more details.)

Who can enter the competition? Submissions can come from an individual, a class, or a group. Individuals must be current DC public or public charter high school students or DC public and public charter alumni who are currently in or have graduated from college.

What can I do to win? You can create your own original Web site, game, video, documentary, photo essay, or audio product about the importance of a college education and how to prepare for it. Your product needs to be five minutes or less if it is audio or visual.

What are the categories?

• Inspirational: These products will make students take action because they feel hopeful about succeeding in college.
• Informative: These products will provide students with important information about the college experience.
• Instructional: These products will provide students with instruction on how to get ready for and succeed in college.

When are entries due? December 15, 2011.

Can I enter more than one product? Yes! You can submit as many entries as you like. Make sure they are of high quality to improve your chances of winning. Use a separate form for each entry.

What are the judges looking for? Your submission will be judged on clarity of message, creativity, and originality as well as how informative, inspiring, and engaging your message is.

What do I need to do now?

1. Decide you, your class, or your group want to win the top prizes.
2. Develop your ideas and produce your best product.  
3. Submit your entries on time.

How do I enter/submit my project? Download the entry forms for high school students or alumni. Then, complete the form and submit all entries electronically. If it is less than 10 MBs, e-mail the entry form and your product to: YMC@doublethenumbersdc.org. If your product is more than 10 MBs, please e-mail for instructions on how to submit the entry.

• View winners from the 2010 Youth Media Competition.
  
• Download an overview of the 2011 Youth Media Competition.