Annual Writing Sweepstakes Encourages Kids to Chase Their Dreams

Nurse, teacher, doctor, hairdresser, welder, electrician — these are just some of the careers kids dream about having once they are all grown up. This excitement drives them to explore opportunities as they go through school and eventually choose a college or trade school to make that big dream a reality.

To encourage the curiosity that has been planted by families, friends, and teachers along the way, the Nebraska State Treasurer’s Office and the Omaha Storm Chasers sponsor the ‘Why I Want to Go to College’ writing sweepstakes for 7th and 8th graders.

Over the last 20 years, this program has awarded NEST 529 funds to more than 250 students. Students have the opportunity to write and submit entries on the value of education and their personal aspirations. This year, three students were awarded in each of Nebraska’s three U.S. congressional districts, as well as three students from outside the state of Nebraska. Click on each story below to read the inspiring entry.