Harvard Undergraduate Economics Association Essay Competition

The **Harvard Undergraduate Economics Association Essay Competition**, hosted by **Harvard College** and published through the *Harvard Economics Review*, is a prestigious international opportunity for motivated **high school** students interested in economics, business, and public policy. This competitive **business program** invites students worldwide to research and write about real-world economic issues, with top essays published in a respected undergraduate journal and eligible for prizes. Participating signals strong academic curiosity and initiative to colleges and future employers. Through this competition, students deepen their understanding of **finance**, **entrepreneurship**, **marketing**, and economic policy while practicing clear, persuasive writing. Participants learn to form arguments backed by data, engage with current events, and analyze markets and incentives—core skills for future careers in business, economics, and **leadership**. Students gain experience similar to a college-level research and writing assignment, building confidence in their ability to tackle complex problems and communicate their ideas to an educated audience. **Key benefits for high school students (grades 9–12) include:** - Advanced practice in critical thinking, research, and academic writing - A standout achievement for **college applications**, especially for business, economics, and social science majors - Stronger preparation for careers in **finance**, consulting, policy, and **entrepreneurship** - Resume-building recognition if selected as a winner or published contributor Motivated students who enjoy economics, business news, or debating public policy will find this competition especially valuable. It stands out from many extracurriculars because it emphasizes original thought and publication in an established platform, not just participation. High school students looking to demonstrate intellectual passion, differentiate themselves in competitive admissions, and explore how economics connects to **marketing**, business strategy, and real-world decision-making should strongly consider entering the Harvard Undergraduate Economics Association Essay Competition.