A Carl Sandburg High School sophomore has turned a classroom assignment into national recognition, earning top honors in a student investment writing competition.
Grace Wurster, a student in an AP Macroeconomics class, was named the Illinois state winner and placed third in the nation in the InvestWrite Contest, a program tied to The Stock Market Game. The competition challenges students to explain investment decisions while connecting them to real-life financial goals.
Wurster’s essay drew from both personal experience and practical strategy. She said she built her mock investment portfolio around companies and products she already understands, including household names such as Coca-Cola, Nike and Walmart, along with an aerospace firm and an artificial intelligence company.
One selection, she noted, carried deeper meaning. Wurster chose to include a pharmaceutical company focused on dementia treatment, inspired by a family member living with the disease.
The essay was submitted through the SIFMA Foundation, which administers the national program. Judges review entries based on clarity of reasoning, understanding of financial concepts and overall writing quality.
In feedback shared with the school, a foundation representative described Wurster’s writing as “smooth,” adding that her approach to diversification kept judges engaged.
Wurster said the experience went beyond competition. It provided a chance to take control of her financial thinking early.
“This was an opportunity to take ownership of investing and a good way to learn how to be smart with my money,” she said.
Her essay rose to the top of a field of more than 1,700 submissions nationwide.
A laptop was awarded in recognition of her third-place national finish, while the school received a trophy. She also earned additional recognition as the state winner, including a trophy, a writing journal, program merchandise and a $100 gift card.
Her teacher received funds to host a class celebration, and Wurster’s parents were honored with a commemorative plaque, a nod to the support behind her achievement.