The Harvard Book Award, also known as the Harvard Prize Book, is a prestigious recognition presented by Harvard University alumni to outstanding high school juniors. Established in 1910, this award honors students who exhibit excellence in academics, strong character, and notable achievements in other areas. Each year, the award is bestowed upon students from nearly 2,000 selected high schools worldwide.
History and Purpose
The Harvard Prize Book program was initiated by Harvard alumni over a century ago to inspire high-achieving students to pursue higher education and to foster a connection between secondary schools and Harvard University. The award aims to acknowledge students who not only excel academically but also contribute positively to their communities and demonstrate leadership qualities.
Selection Criteria
The criteria for selecting recipients are determined by each participating high school, ensuring that the award aligns with the institution’s values and standards. Generally, the selection process considers:
Academic Excellence: Top-performing students in 11th-grade reading classes are prime candidates for the award.
Character and Integrity: Students who display honesty, responsibility, and ethical behavior are favored.
Extracurricular Achievements: Active participation and leadership in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, or community service, are taken into account.
It’s important to note that the Harvard Book Award is not part of Harvard University’s admission process and does not influence college admissions decisions.
Award Details
Each Harvard Prize Book is accompanied by:
A Harvard Bookplate: This bookplate bears the names of both the donor and the recipient, serving as a lasting memento of the award.
A Commemorative Bookmark: This bookmark provides additional context about the award and its significance.
The award is typically presented during the school’s end-of-year ceremonies, such as graduation or award events, often accompanied by remarks from a local Harvard alumnus or alumna.
Global Reach
The Harvard Prize Book program has a significant global presence, with awards presented in nearly 2,000 high schools across the world. Harvard Clubs and Shared Interest Groups (SIGs) coordinate the distribution of these awards, aiming to recognize outstanding students and promote the values associated with Harvard University.
Impact and Significance
Receiving the Harvard Book Award is a mark of distinction that acknowledges a student’s hard work, dedication, and positive influence within their community. While the award does not directly impact college admissions, it serves as a valuable addition to a student’s academic portfolio, highlighting their commitment to excellence and character.
How to Participate
If you’re interested in having your school participate in the Harvard Prize Book program:
Contact the Harvard Club: Reach out to your local Harvard Club or SIG to inquire about participation.
Engage with School Administrators: Collaborate with your school’s administration to facilitate the selection process and ensure alignment with the award’s criteria.
For example, the Harvard Club of Chicago provides participating high schools with a choice of Harvard Prize Books from Harvard’s university bookstore at no charge. They also assist in organizing award presentations and related events.
Testimonials
Students who have received the Harvard Book Award often express pride and motivation from the recognition. For instance, Irene J., a recipient from Korea International School Jeju, shared her experience of being nominated and honored at a ceremony, highlighting the significance of the award in her academic journey.
Conclusion
The Harvard Book Award stands as a testament to the values of academic excellence, strong character, and community involvement. By recognizing outstanding high school juniors, the award not only celebrates individual achievements but also fosters a broader appreciation for these ideals within educational communities worldwide. If you’re a student aiming for this honor, focus on excelling in your studies, contributing positively to your community, and embodying the principles of integrity and leadership.
