Winner will appear in Reader's Digest, tour The Planetary Society with Bill Nye, and win $20,000!
Oliver embodies what it means to be a student in America. He is autistic, brilliant and astonishingly determined. He will change this world!
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
Oliver has genuinely loved learning since he could speak, in full sentences, at one! He devoured all the Harry Potter books by 5-years-old and his imagination is remarkable. He sees his autism as a superpower, being able to see the world differently and go about solving problems in different and unique ways. He looks up to other people with Asperger’s Syndrome, like Elon Musk, and he knows that if he works hard and follows his innate curiosity, he can change the world, and he will.
Favorite Subject & Why
Oliver has always adored English class because it is a place where his advanced verbal skills really shine and where he feels most comfortable in his own skin. He loves delving into novels and the creativity involved in peeling the layers back on characters, as well as the various storylines. The more he reads and interprets, the more the world seems to make sense to him and on the flip side, the more interesting the other worlds he can create are.
How $20,000 Would Support Their Goals
Oliver goes to a special school for 2e students, like himself. It is not cheap and he also needs outside therapy as well. He is high functioning, with an extremely high IQ, but for sensory challenges and social challenges he requires a bit of extra help. He lives with his mother, who is a single mom, as well as a teacher, so finances are tight. The money could really help Oliver with tuition for a school in which he finally feels at home and is able to fully be himself!
Help Oliver 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.