What is the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Scholarship all about?

I've recently come across the Breakthrough Junior Challenge Scholarship and am really curious about what it entails. I'm a high school junior interested in science and I love creating videos, so this sounds like it could be a perfect fit for me. What are the eligibility requirements and the selection process for this scholarship? Also, does anyone know how competitive it is and if there are any tips on making a strong submission?

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is indeed a unique opportunity that combines a passion for science with creative video-making skills. As a high school junior with a keen interest in science, you might find it particularly interesting.

Eligibility for this challenge requires participants to be between the ages of 13 and 18. The students can be from any part of the world as long as they speak English. There is no restriction based on nationality or country of residence.

The selection process starts with participants creating a short (2 minutes or less) video explaining a challenging and important concept or theory in physics, life sciences, or mathematics. The videos are then judged on the level of difficulty of the topic, the clarity of the explanation, creativity, and innovation, and the overall production value.

Regarding competitiveness, it's worth noting that the Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global competition, receiving thousands of entries each year. So, it can indeed be quite competitive. Each video submission is initially reviewed by the peers of the participant. The top scorers then undergo evaluation by a judging panel, with the number being progressively narrowed down, then to a list of finalists, and finally, the winner is picked.

As for making a strong submission, it's recommended to choose a topic you're truly passionate about as it will help in communicating your enthusiasm in the video. Make sure that your video demystifies a complex topic and breaks it down into an understandable form. Use visual effects or animations if you can - they can help make abstract concepts more comprehensible. Lastly, remember to be creative and innovative. This challenge is not just about explaining a topic well but doing so in an engaging manner that draws viewers in and helps them appreciate the beauty of a complex scientific concept.

So, if you are confident in your ability to create engaging content and explain scientific concepts clearly, this could be a great opportunity for you! Good luck with your application!