The Tough Life: pursing the dream

Jessica Atkinson is an aspiring writer who, despite her young age, had already been dealt significant life challenges. Her dream to become a recognized writer was furthered when her portfolio of work was selected to receive the highest level of recognition from The Scholastic Awards—A Portfolio Gold Award in Writing. This award was presented to only 12 of nearly 9,000 graduating seniors—five artists, two photographers and five writers who submitted portfolios. Jessica is a remarkably talented young writer from Charleston, SC, whose literary talent was announced to the nation and the world in a New York Times article in May of 2006.

Under the guidance, support and mentorship of a gifted and dedicated teacher — Rene Buffo Miles — Jessica honed her writing skills and submitted her portfolio of writing to The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards of 2006. When she was notified that she was receiving a top award, Jessica had only one concern: Did she win because she could write or because the judges felt sorry for her? She was assured that one of the basic principles of The Scholastic Awards is blind adjudication where nationally recognized jurors judge work on its own merit without knowledge of any of the details of the lives and circumstances of the young artists and writers.

Jessica Atkinson Age 18, Portfolio Gold Award