Overview
As part of the project “250 Years of Freedom: Nations, Wealth, and Prosperity”, the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom at Florida International University invites undergraduate and graduate students and professionals from around the world to participate in an international essay competition marking the 250th anniversary of Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations and the American Revolution (1776).
This competition seeks to engage a new generation of thinkers in the timeless question of prosperity: What makes a nation rich and prosperous today? Submissions from all disciplines and perspectives are welcome.
Categories
- Undergraduate (students pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the time of submission).
- Graduate (candidates pursuing master’s, doctoral, or equivalent degrees, along with practicing professionals)
Submission Deadline: February 25th, 2026.
Announcement of Winners: March 25th, 2026.
Award Ceremony: During the 250 Years of Freedom international event in Miami, Florida.
Submission Guidelines
Language
Essays may be submitted in English or Spanish
Length
Minimum 16 pages, maximum 20 pages (double-spaced, standard Times New Roman 12-point font)
Citation Format
APA style (7th edition)
Originality
Essays must be original, unpublished, and not under review elsewhere. The Adam Smith Center will apply rigorous standards to ensure academic integrity, including strict control regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence tools.
Content
Essays should directly address the competition question and demonstrate critical thinking, originality, and clarity.
Prizes
Awards will be granted in each category (undergraduate and graduate):
First Prize: USD $2,500 + publication of the essay.
Second Prize: USD $1,000 + publication of the essay.
Winners will also be invited to the award ceremony at the 250 Years of Freedom international gathering in 2026. The Adam Smith Center will cover travel and accommodation expenses for the awardees.
Publication
All prize-winning essays will be published by the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom in a format to be determined by the Center (digital or print), ensuring wide dissemination among scholars, policymakers, and students.
How To Apply
Submit your essay as a Word file to: freedom@fiu.edu
Subject: International Essay Competition
Include a cover page with:
- Full Name
- Category (Undergraduate / Graduate)
- Contact Information (email and phone number)
This competition is a unique opportunity to honor Adam Smith’s enduring legacy, contribute to today’s debates on prosperity and freedom, and join an international community of young leaders shaping the future of free societies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I submit an essay even if I am not currently enrolled as a student?
Yes. Individuals with a bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, or equivalent degree, as well as practicing professionals, may participate.
2. Who is eligible to participate?
Two categories are open:
- Undergraduate: Anyone pursuing a bachelor’s degree at the time of submission.
- Graduate: Master’s, doctoral, or equivalent-level students, as well as practicing professionals with comparable qualifications.
3. Do I need to be studying economics or a related field?
No. The competition welcomes submissions from all disciplines.
4. Can I submit an essay in Spanish?
Yes. Essays may be submitted in English or Spanish.
5. What is the required length of the essay?
Essays must be between 16 and 20 pages, double-spaced, using Times New Roman 12-point font.
6. Are previously published essays allowed?
No. Essays must be original, unpublished, and not submitted elsewhere.
The Center applies strict academic integrity rules, including guidelines regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence tools.
7. Can I submit more than one essay?
No. Only one submission per person is allowed.
8. Can I include charts, infographics, or appendices?
Yes, but the main essay must still fall within the 16–20 page limit. Appendices are allowed but should be used sparingly.
9. Is co-authorship allowed?
No. Essays must be individually authored.
10. Does the topic have to strictly follow Adam Smith’s “Wealth of Nations”?
Essays should address the central theme, what makes a nation rich and prosperous today, and may incorporate modern, interdisciplinary, or comparative perspectives.
11. I have a question that is not listed here. Who can I contact?
Please email freedom@fiu.edu with any additional questions.
I. Requirements
The Civic Circle Fellowship shall be open to all currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students. Applicants must have a 3.0 cumulative GPA, maintain a 3.0 semester GPA, and have no standing disciplinary action against them. If a Fellow fails to meet these requirements, membership will be revoked.
II. Non-Discrimination
No person shall be denied membership in this organization because of race, color, sex, disability, nationality, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation.
III. Anti-Hazing
The Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom does not tolerate any form of hazing.
IV. Initial Process
To be considered for the Civic Circle Fellowship, applicants must complete a formal application, followed by two rounds of interviews: a group interview and an individual interview. The specific opening and closing dates for the application cycle will be determined by the Center’s Administration with the Advisor. Interviews will take place within two weeks following the application deadline.
The selection process will be led by the Center’s Administration and the designated Advisor, with the goal of evaluating each candidate’s character, skills, and potential to ensure alignment with the values and responsibilities expected of a Civic Circle Fellow.
Final selections will be made during a closed review meeting conducted by the Center’s Administration and Advisor. Applications for the Civic Circle Fellowship will open during the Fall Semester.
V. Participation Requirements
Once selected, Civic Circle Fellows are expected to fully participate in the program by attending all scheduled meetings, serving on assigned committees, and actively engaging in Center-hosted events. Fellows will receive a general calendar each semester outlining anticipated activities and responsibilities. Additional guidelines—including the code of conduct and performance expectations—will be formally communicated by the Center’s Administration upon program approval.
APPLICATIONS OPEN AUGUST 4TH, 2025!
Apply Now!
Ready to take the next step?
The Civic Circle Fellowship is looking for motivated, curious, and dedicated students to join its inaugural cohort. If you’re eager to grow as a civic leader and contribute to the initiatives of the Adam Smith Center for Economic Freedom, we encourage you to apply.
Applications are now open. Click the button below to submit your materials and be considered for this unique opportunity.
Should you have any questions, please email freedom@fiu.edu.
