Winner will appear in Reader's Digest, tour The Planetary Society with Bill Nye, and win $20,000!
AJ proves big dreams start in Appalachia—playing bluegrass, building robots, and inspiring kids to invent a better future.
Help your favorite student appear in Reader's Digest and take home $20,000!
America's Favorite Student will share their educational journey in the pages of Reader’s Digest, highlighting the power of learning and inspiring readers nationwide.
Learn MoreWhy They Love Being a Student
AJ loves being a student because every day brings a new chance to learn, grow, and turn ideas into action. He enjoys playing traditional bluegrass music and exploring robotics with his team, where curiosity and teamwork lead to new discoveries. Learning gives AJ the tools to solve problems and help others. Most of all, he loves inspiring other Appalachian kids to dream big, work hard, and believe they can make a difference.
Favorite Subject & Why
AJ’s favorite subjects are writing and STEAM because they let his creativity come to life. Through writing, he can imagine anything and turn his ideas into stories that express who he is. STEAM gives him the chance to explore how things work, solve problems, and work with his hands and mind. Together, they allow AJ to think creatively, build new ideas, and share his imagination with others.
How $20,000 Would Support Their Goals
As a homeschooled student, a $20,000 award would let AJ explore his passions in music and STEAM more deeply through advanced robotics programs, music lessons, and creative workshops. It would give him the tools to take on bigger projects, grow his skills, and, most importantly, inspire other Appalachian kids to dream big, embrace creativity, and see how curiosity and hard work can open doors to new opportunities.
Help Andrei "AJ" Slagle become America's Favorite Student by casting your free daily vote, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting The Planetary Society and their mission to inspire curiosity and help shape the future of space exploration for everyone.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like America’s Favorite Student, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
