The Career Development Center is sponsoring a student essay contest to honor former director Dr. David Ball. All juniors, seniors and graduate students seeking an internship, full-time job or entrance into an advanced degree program are eligible to apply. Two essays will be selected with the winners receiving a $250 gift certificate and an appointment with a personal shopper at a local clothing store. Essays should be between 650 and 900 words and focus on a faculty or staff member at Appalachian who has greatly influenced the student’s career plans. An entry form and more information about the contest are available at www.careers.appstate.edu. The deadline for submissions is March 1.