In heartfelt and imaginative essays, seventh and eighth graders from across Nebraska and beyond shared their hopes for the future in the 2025 “Why I Want to Go to College” Writing Sweepstakes, sponsored by the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office and the Omaha Storm Chasers. From dreams of becoming teachers, doctors, and voice actors to aspirations of making a difference through technology and politics, students voiced the many reasons why higher education matters to them.
Three winners from each of Nebraska’s three congressional districts and three out-of-state students earned contributions to their NEST 529 College Savings Plan accounts. Each first-place winner received a $2,000 contribution, with second and third-place winners receiving $1,000 and $500, respectively.
This year’s essays reflected ambition, personal resilience, gratitude, and a powerful understanding of how education can be a tool for change.
2025 Writing Sweepstakes Winners
First Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Marian Perez Suchite, Lincoln
Second: Hudson Corder, Schuyler
Third: Addison Zupancic, Lincoln
Second Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Jack Schaefer, Elkhorn
Second: Alexander Beavers, Omaha
Third: Hailey Hanson, Omaha
Third Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Rylee Amen, Grand Island
Second: Ali Wondercheck, Atkinson
Third: Bentley Beilke, Giltner
Out-of-State Winners
First: Elijah Berney, Shreveport, LA
First Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Marian Perez Suchite, Lincoln
Second: Hudson Corder, Schuyler
Third: Addison Zupancic, Lincoln
Second Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Jack Schaefer, Elkhorn
Second: Alexander Beavers, Omaha
Third: Hailey Hanson, Omaha
Third Congressional District – Nebraska
First: Rylee Amen, Grand Island
Second: Ali Wondercheck, Atkinson
Third: Bentley Beilke, Giltner
Out-of-State Winners
First: Elijah Berney, Shreveport, LA
Every student who participated in this year’s sweepstakes showcased their own dreams, drive, and dedication. Their essays serve as important reminders of the impact college and post-secondary education programs can have, not just on one student’s future but on the families, communities, and professions they will one day shape.