Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
When is the deadline?
The deadline for Growing Up Asian in America is March 2, 2018.
If I deliver my entry in person, where do I deliver it to?
You must deliver your entry to our office located at 465 California Street, Suite 809, San Francisco, CA 94104
Is the contest only for Asian & Pacific Islander American students?
The contest is open to students of all backgrounds. However, your entry must be in line with the contest theme and be about an Asian or Pacific Islander American experience. For example, you can focus your work on friends or loved ones who are Asian or Pacific Islander American.
Can I submit an entry if I don’t live in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano or Sonoma County?
No, you may not, unless you go to school in one of these counties.
How will my entry be judged?
Your entry will be judged based on creativity, originality and skill in interpreting the theme and expressing your ideas.
Can I submit art and essay online?
We cannot accept art online. Beginning 2018, essays may be mailed in or submitted online.
Can my teacher submit entries from many different students all in one packet?
Yes, as long as an entry form is filled out for each submission.
When is the awards ceremony and can anyone attend?
The awards ceremony will be on May 5, 2018. It is open only to contest winners and their families.
ART
Can I include a description about my artwork?
Yes, you may include a brief statement or paragraph on the back of your artwork. This can include any insights/highlights from your interview with older members of your family, explanation or inspiration behind your work.
Can I submit a photograph?
Yes, you may submit a photograph. Please print your photograph as an 8 x 10” image.
Can I submit a piece of artwork that’s bigger than 8 ½ by 11”?
No, you may not. Your artwork must be 8 ½ by 11” max.
Can my artwork be smaller than 8 ½ by 11”?
Yes, but it must be on 8 ½ by 11” paper.
Can I submit digital art?
Yes, you can submit digital art. Please print it out on 8 ½ x 11” paper.
Can I submit sculpture or 3D art?
No, you may only submit 2D art such as drawings, paintings, photographs, etc. Your paper or canvas may not be more than ¼ inch thick.
Can I get my artwork back?
Due to the high volume of entries and a nonprofit budget, we are not able to send back entries. In addition, submitting materials to the contest is considered a grant of license to the Asian Pacific Fund to use in any manner, including the creation of derivative works without payment of a royalty.
ESSAY
Can I write more than 500 words?
No, please keep your essay 500 words or under.
Can I write poems, songs or stories?
Of course. You can write poems, songs or stories! Be as creative as you want!
Can I include quotes from my interviews with older members of my family?
Yes, we encourage you to include quotes or insights from your interview.
Can I hand-write my essay or do I have to type and print it?
Either handwritten or typed is acceptable. If you hand-write, please print neatly.
VIDEO
Can I include footage from home movies/videos?
Yes, in accordance with this year’s theme, you may include footage from home movies/videos.
Can I go over 1 minute in my video?
No, please keep your video 1 minute or under.
What about credits?
Your credits do not count as part of your 1 minute video and will not be considered for judging.
What format does it have to be in?
Please submit your video as an .avi, .mov, or .wmv file.