An essay submitted by Collinsville High School senior Kaitlin Carlson to a national contest earned her a college scholarship and a trip to Philadelphia.

Kaitlin Carlson

Carlson’s essay about equal pay for equal work was one of six winners in the 17th Annual NFWL/NRA Bill of Rights Essay Scholarship Contest. The National Foundation for Women Legislators partnered with the National Rifle Association to present the contest. Contestants were asked to apply the 14th Amendment of the Constitution to an issue currently being debated and how explain how the issue affects women.

Carlson, who was sponsored by Illinois State Representative Barbara Wheeler, won a $3,000 college scholarship and an all-expense paid, four-day trip to Philadelphia for the NFLW’s 2014 conference.

President of the senior class and secretary of the French Club, Carlson is also involved in Student Council, the National Honor Society and the Science Club. An avid dancer, Carlson recently had a key role in a local dance company’s production of The Nutcracker. Carlson commits at least three hours per day to dance, CHS counselor Karen Olsen said.

Olsen said Carlson dreams of becoming a pediatric oncologist.

“I have every confidence that she will attain this goal,” Olsen said. “She has the character, work ethic and the intelligence to make all of her dreams come true.”