Online degree candidates may participate in essay contests

Online degree candidates may participate in essay contests

Individuals who are pursuing an MBA degree at a campus-based or online college may be able to finance part of their tuition by competing in essay-writing contests, such as the one hosted by Turnaround Management Association (TMA) and Carl Marks Advisory Group.

Students who are enrolled in an accredited classroom-based or online degree program at the masters level are eligible to enter the partnership's Student Paper Competition, which will award cash prizes to the top two essay writers.

Applicants may submit a paper that discusses either turnaround case analysis or the theoretical and conceptual aspects of turnarounds. Essays must have been written between May 30, 2009, and May 31 of this year.

Cash awards of $3,000 and $1,500 will be given to the first- and second-place winners. These awardees will also receive an all-expense paid trip to the TMA 2010 Annual Convention in October, where they will be recognized for their submissions.

The competition is intended to allow students to "explore their interest in careers in turnaround management and distressed investing."

Individuals who are working toward a degree by taking online courses may be able to schedule time to participate in similar contests, which could help them cover the cost of a higher degree program.

By Stefanie Hughes