The Contest
The purpose of the CNTA Essay Contest is to promote a better understanding of nuclear technology among high school students. It also provides an incentive for the development of written communication skills that are vital to continued success in education and in the workforce.
Over the course of the Essay Contest program, CNTA has awarded over $90,000 to deserving students.
Eligibility
- Open to high school juniors and seniors in South Carolina, students from Burke, Columbia, or Richmond counties in Georgia, homeschool students, and children of CNTA members regardless of school district.
- Each contestant must prepare his or her own essay about one of the listed topics.
Contestants must submit one (1) copy of their essay in its final form to the Contest Director by the due date of February 28, 2025. Each essay must be accompanied by an Official Student Entry Form. No faxed copies will be accepted, please email them.
Contest Criteria
Submit a 1,000-1,500 word essay on one of three topics. The 2025 topics are:
There are numerous applications of nuclear technology in the medical industry, such as radioisotopes for medical diagnostics, or therapies. Some of them have been around for many years, and others are being developed. Discuss at least two (2) uses of nuclear technology in medicine and their impact.
- Explain what spent nuclear fuel is and the pros and cons of the United States having one central interim repository for these materials.
- How is the United States’ security linked to comprehensive deterrence? What role does our nuclear deterrence play in our overall security and how are we working to enhance our global position?
The effort involves researching a topic and preparing an essay on the subject. CNTA has books and other reference materials that may be of help to student applicants. Outside sources are welcome, but must be cited appropriately.
The competition is judged by volunteer members of CNTA.
Application Process
2025’s contest winners are below – 2026 details will be available later this year!
2025 Winners and Essays
$1,000 Winners
- Jordan Boyle, Lake City High School, for “The Role of Nuclear Deterrence in Ensuring United States Security”
- Wyatt Carnes, Aiken Scholars Academy, for “Analysis of Various Nuclear Technologies in the Medical Industry”
- Blake Sommers, Greenbriar High School, for “Nuclear Radioisotopes: A Medical Perspective”
$750 Winner
- • Tripp Moyer, Midland Valley High School, for “Deterrence Defined: US Security in the Modern Era”
- Rhianna Waltower, Hephzibah High School, for “Beyond the Reactor: Spent Fuel Management”
$500 Winners
- Jaxon Green, Academy of Richmond County, for “Nuclear Power: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility for Tomorrow’s Energy Needs”
- Coralyn Cairns, Lakeside High School, for “Nuclear Deterrence and Its Role in Modern Day America”
- Megan Arnold, North Augusta High School, for “Spent Nuclear Fuel”