The Freshman Convocation Committee announced the winners of the Freshman Convocation Essay Competition at a recent awards ceremony.

UHD's incoming freshmen participated in the First-Year Common Reading Program, which had them read the book, "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time," write essays and discuss the book at Freshman Convocation in August. This year's essay theme was: "By the end of the novel, the main character Christopher comes to believe that he can be successful at anything. How does Christopher's journey empower him and how does his story empower you as you begin your UHD experience?"

Kieyanna Carter, accounting major, won first place and a $750 prize. Bianca Monique Perry won second place and $550. Luis Lagarda received the third place award of $450. Kevin Ayala won fourth place and $350. Fifth place and $250 went to Jasmine Huynh.

The committee also recognized 10 students whose essays earned "awards of excellence."

Winners included:

• Audrie Lopez - Interdisciplinary Studies
• Sadia Mandli - Political Science
• Dorcas Mbaeri - Math
• Amairani Rucoba - Psychology
• Daymar Blanco - Criminal Justice
• Jasmine Gutierrez - Criminal Justice
• Ana Gil - Undecided
• Israel Cervantes - Computer Science
• Sierra Carter - Political Sciences
• Chelsea Chance - Biology