About the KIDS FIRST: David L. Kirp Prize
The KIDS FIRST: David L. Kirp Prize rewards students engaged in new or ongoing work that demonstrates a commitment, whether in education or other domains, to creating a better future for children and youth. The award of $2,500 is given to one UC Berkeley undergraduate student each year. The Prize recognizes students who have developed innovative strategies to increase opportunities for children and youth, as well as students who have demonstrated a commitment to improving the future of children and youth. The intent of the prize is to shine a light on a student whose work has gone largely unrecognized.
In evaluating the applications, we look for:
- Critical issue/need
- Track record of success/impact or promise of potential impact
- Initiative/leadership
- Creativity/innovation
- Sustained commitment
- Good use of resources
Application and Selection Process
Students apply by submitting a resume, two letters of support, and an essay of up to 1,000 words describing their innovation and/or ongoing engagement. More details and selection criteria are on the application. Submissions involving apps, models and pilot projects are welcome. All registered undergraduate students at UC Berkeley are eligible to apply.
2024-2025 application form
Applications are due via the online form by Monday, November 4, 2024, at 5pm.
Applicants will be notified within three months.
Application Components:
1. Online Application Form
2. Your essay of up to 1000 words describing your innovation and/or ongoing engagement improving the future of children and youth. The essay should include the following:
- * Clear description and timeline of what has been done so far
- * Number of children/youth served (and/or projected to be served)
- * Impact on children/youth served and how you assess that (or will assess that)
- * Plan for the next five years of the project, including sustainability, as well as your own plan for the next five years
3. Your resume or CV, not to exceed two pages. (In the past, some applicants have made the mistake of taking up too much space in the essay repeating information from the resume, so please keep in mind that the committee will review your resume).
4. Supplemental materials (optional). These might include photos, data tables, diagrams, screen shots of an app, etc. Aside from brief captions if needed, please do not include text. We want all applicants to adhere to the word limit.
5. Two letters of support are also required (please do not send more than two letters) In choosing your letter-writers, consider who has first-hand knowledge of the project and your role in it. If there is a co-founder/co-leader of the project, include a letter from that person. A letter from a teacher, administrator, or community organization staff member is also good. You can request a letter from a child/youth/or parent served, if you think they can provide a compelling overview of the project. You may include at most one letter from a faculty member. Be sure to ask them to address the specifics of the project and your contribution rather than writing a general letter of recommendation. Letters should be emailed from the recommender to issi@berkeley.edu with Kids First Prize in the subject line.
For more information contact Dr. Deborah Lustig: dlustig AT berkeley.edu, 510-642-0813.
Support the KIDS FIRST: David L. Kirp Prize
To make a gift in support of the prize, please visit the online giving site and in the "In Honor of:" section list "Kirp Prize".
