U.S. News and World Report sponsors nationwide college YouTube contest

Sept. 22, 2008 -- Arkansas State University students, faculty and staff are invited to join colleges and universities across the nation to enter the first-ever "Why My School Rocks" college video contest on YouTube. The contest is sponsored by U.S. News & World Report.

The grand prize winner receives a spring break trip for two from STA Travel to one of four destinations including Jamaica, Cancun, Acapulco or the Bahamas. The trip includes air and hotel packages for vacation with a maximum value of $1,500 per person or a total value of $3,000.

"This is a low -cost opportunity for students and staff to highlight all of the great things that your school has to offer," said Christie Garton, manager of audience and business development for U.S. News & World Report. "We’re reaching out to students and staff who would be interested in this type of opportunity to showcase unique and memorable characteristics of campus life, whatever it is that makes your school ‘rock.’"

In order to win, participants must upload their videos and promote them to friends, family and fellow students to gain as many viewings as possible by Oct. 31, 2008. The 10 videos with the largest number of views will move to the finals for judging by U.S. News and World Report and STA Travel personnel. The winner is based on the video’s use of the theme, "Why My School Rocks," as well as the creativity and effectiveness used in the presentation of the campus.

Entry requirements include submission of videos only from students, faculty and staff at an accredited four-year college. Entrants may use any artistic medium to create original video. All videos should be less than three minutes in length.

For more information regarding the contest, visit www.usnews.com/youtubecontest.

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