Honors Case Study Challenge

USA TODAY Case Challenge Project

Phi Theta Kappa chapters and individual members are invited to participate in the Honors Case Study Challenge. Take the challenge for an opportunity to WIN $500!

In an effort to encourage scholarship while promoting civic engagement among college students, USA TODAY and Phi Theta Kappa have issued the Honors Case Study Challenge. The Challenge provides members with the opportunity to implement the Honors Study Topic, The Paradox of Affluence: Choices, Challenges, and Consequences, enhance their learning experiences through the use of newspapers, and stay abreast of current events.

The Challenge:

USA TODAY and Phi Theta Kappa challenge you to read the newspaper daily and conduct a Case Study based upon your reading.

The Reward:

  • Be one of four winners of $500!
  • Be recognized on stage at the 2009 International Convention in Grapevine, TX!
  • Have your winning entry published on the USA TODAY Collegiate Academic website!

The Rules:

Review the Official Case Study Challenge Rules and Regulations (i.e. the fine print).
  • Read the print edition of USA TODAY between Monday, June 30, 2008 and Friday, February 27, 2009.

  • Select four to five USA TODAY articles (written by USA TODAY reporters) on a single topic related to the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Study Topic, The Paradox of Affluence: Choices, Challenges, and Consequences.

  • Record the headline, byline, section name (News, Money, Life, Sports), publication date, and page number(s) for each article selected.

  • Write a one-page (maximum 500 words) Case Study summary of the topic and why the topic was chosen.

  • Write an essay (maximum 200 words) on the future implications of the Case Study topic.

  • Pose three to five discussion questions related to the topic.

  • Suggest up to six resources for additional study.

  • Download and fill out the entry template.

  • Submit your entry via e-mail to case-study-challenge@ptk.org by 5:00 pm CST, Friday, March 6, 2009.

Challenge ends March 6, 2009!

Meet the 2008 winners, and view their 2008 winning entries.

For more information about the Honors Case Study Challenge, contact Tria Cohen, Honors Programs Coordinator, at 601.984.3515.