Senior Hannah Kim Earns Bronze in Harvard Writing Contest

‍Senior Hannah Kim Honored as a Bronze Medalist in HIR Academic Writing Contest

Senior Hannah Kim was honored as a Bronze Medalist in the Summer 2024 Harvard International Review (HIR) Academic Writing Contest. Reflecting on her journey, Hannah shared, “It took about six months for me to build up my article with independent research and multiple drafts. I had exposure to various resources such as articles, websites, journals, and much more for my article.”

The Harvard International Review is a quarterly magazine featuring articles, interviews, and editorials on international affairs, written from the perspectives of scholars, leaders, and policymakers. Over the years, the Review has included contributions from 43 Presidents and Prime Ministers, 4 Secretaries-General, 4 Nobel Economics Prize laureates, and 7 Nobel Peace Prize laureates. Since 2020, the HIR has sponsored a writing contest for high school students to address global issues.

This year’s contest presented two themes: Theme A: Inequalities in a VUCA World (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) and Theme B: Global Challenges and Collective Actions. Participants analyzed one theme through various lenses, including Agriculture, Cybersecurity, Public Health, and more, crafting their work from a global perspective.

Hannah’s article examined the unimaginable plight of migrants in the Sahara Desert as they seek asylum in Europe. Through months of research and writing, she delivered a short-form article (800–1,200 words) highlighting severe human rights violations. Her dedication earned her “finalist” status, advancing her to the next phase of the contest.

As a finalist, Hannah was invited to Harvard Defense Day earlier this fall to present and defend her thesis. “At first, I was very nervous about what the judges might ask me, but my passion for the topic gave me the courage to speak confidently,” Hannah reflected.

Hannah’s Bronze Medal recognition places her in the top 20% of global applicants, and her name is now listed on the HIR website. SCA is incredibly proud of Hannah’s dedication, thoroughness, and passion for addressing critical international issues. Congratulations, Hannah!

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