The Utah Treasurer's Investment Challenge Essay is a statewide writing competition administered by the Utah Office of State Treasurer and the Utah Financial Empowerment Coalition. The essay contest will be hosted each semester, coinciding with the fall and spring game sessions (registration for the Utah Treasurer's Investment Challenge can be found on www.treasurer.utah.gov/investment-challenge). 

Students will compete against other students in their division (Elementary, Middle/Jr. High, or High School) from across the state. Three winners from each division will be selected by the panel of judges and recognized with a Visa gift card, my 529 gift certificate, and award plaque.

Submissions are due on May 5, 2025 at 11:59 P.M. MST for the Spring Essay Contest.

Rules –

1.    To participate, the student's Utah Treasurer's Investment Challenge advisor must submit the student's essays via the online submission form by the published deadline. Late submissions will not be considered.

2.    One (1) essay per student will be accepted. All submissions must be the original work of the student. Submissions will undergo plagiarism checks, and any form of plagiarism detected will result in disqualification. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or any form of technology to generate or enhance content is strictly prohibited.

If students refer to external sources, they must properly cite them according to a specified citation style (e.g., MLA, APA).
3. Essays will be judged anonymously. Advisors should ensure that student names and other identifying information are NOT included in the essay submission box.

4. Advisors should ensure that essays are submitted in appropriate grade categories to maintain a fair competition.

5. Essays will be judged by a panel of judges according to the attached rubric, indicating comprehension and critical thinking of key investment concepts and the essay prompt.

By checking the box below, I affirm that the work is the student's own and meets the requirements stated above.

Essay Prompt:

Research and profile a successful investor, company, or investment firm from Wall Street. Explain their investment strategies and philosophies, and analyze the keys to their success.

Essay Prompt:

Compound Interest: The Most Powerful Tool in Investing"

Albert Einstein is often quoted as saying, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it… he who doesn’t, pays it.” But what makes compound interest so powerful?

In this essay, explain the concept of compound interest and how it differs from simple interest. Analyze why compound interest is considered one of the most effective tools for long-term investing and building wealth. Include real-world examples or scenarios to show how early and consistent investing can lead to significant financial growth over time.
Finally, share practical strategies young people can use now to take advantage of compound interest—whether through savings accounts, investment platforms, or retirement tools like a Roth IRA.

Essay Prompt:

Albert Einstein is often quoted as saying, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it… he who doesn’t, pays it.” But what makes compound interest so powerful?

In this essay, explain the concept of compound interest and how it differs from simple interest. Analyze why compound interest is considered one of the most effective tools for long-term investing and building wealth. Include real-world examples or scenarios to show how early and consistent investing can lead to significant financial growth over time.
Finally, share practical strategies young people can use now to take advantage of compound interest—whether through savings accounts, investment platforms, or retirement tools like a Roth IRA.