A student who can understand and interpret science and who is willing to listen to talks by national scientists could be $1,000 richer in November.

WVU is sponsoring a student essay competition in association with the 2000 Claude Worthington Benedum Lecture Series this year, announced Gerald E. Lang, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs and Research.

Five prizes will be awarded: one for $1,000 and four for $500, supported in part by an anonymous gift of $2,000. The $500 prizes are intended to be distributed among the four undergraduate classes.

The topic of the essay must be related to the topic of this year’s series, Science, Life, and the New Millennium. It may also be related to one of the individual topics of the six planned presentations, scheduled for Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25, and Nov. 1 and 8. All undergraduate students on the WVU Morgantown campus are eligible to compete.

First-year students are strongly encouraged to participate. A panel of distinguished faculty will serve as judges.

Essays should be 1,500 to 2,500 words in length, double-spaced and in standard font. They are due Wednesday, Nov. 29, three weeks after the final lecture. Three copies should be sent to Benedum Essay Competition, 210 Stewart Hall, WVU , PO Box 6203, Morgantown, WV 26506 -6203. Further details may be obtained from C. B. Wilson (293-2021).