STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) is becoming increasingly important in society. Every aspect of our lives is touched by it to some extent, even the most mundane tasks. From the coffee we buy in the morning to the smartphone that receives the snapchat of that coffee, STEM is intimately involved in everything we do. Like many of the important things in life, we tend to take it for granted, benefiting from its presence without showing gratitude. One of the main goals of both FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and the LigerBots is to spread appreciation of STEM in the community.

The purpose of this writing contest for FLL students is just that: Appreciating STEM in our own communities by recognising local Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics companies and ventures. The goal of this activity is to share what is happening that is new and exciting in STEM locally. Because there is so much happening, we have taken the whole month of February to celebrate STEM, declaring it STEM Literature Month. Each week of February will be dedicated to the four parts of STEM: Science week – February 1st – 7th ; Technology Week – February 8th – 14th ; Engineering Week – February 15th – 21st ; Mathematics Week – February 22nd – 28th. During each of these weeks FLL students will be asked to submit a short essay, no longer than a page, to the LigerBots describing how a local venture or company embodies the aspect of STEM being celebrated that week. Each week, the essay that best represents that week’s aspect of STEM will be posted on the LigerBots website and the author of the essay will receive a prize.

Essays must be submitted by 3 pm EST on the Sunday of each week. Essays must be no shorter than half a page and no longer than one page.They must focus on one local company or venture and how it represents new and exciting things going on in our community. Writing must be the student’s own work! Submissions must be complete with student name and FLL affiliation. FIRST is about spreading STEM, but it is also about fun – learn a lot, have fun, and we look forwards to reading your submissions!

Submissions can be sent to [email protected]