Award Categories
Six Ways to Be Recognized — and Growing
Category 01
Music
Recognizing young musicians who demonstrate musical ability, dedication, expression, and artistic potential.
Possible Areas Include
- Piano
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Other Instruments
- Vocal Performance
- Solo Performance
- Ensemble Performance
Category 02
Mathematics
Celebrating students who demonstrate strong mathematical thinking, problem-solving skills, curiosity, and academic achievement.
Possible Areas Include
- Mathematics Competition
- Problem Solving
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Academic Achievement
Category 03
Essay & Writing
Encouraging young people to communicate ideas, experiences, imagination, and perspectives through writing.
Possible Areas Include
- Essay
- Creative Writing
- Personal Narrative
- Academic Writing
- Short Story
Category 04
Art
Recognizing creativity and artistic expression in young visual artists.
Possible Areas Include
- Drawing
- Painting
- Illustration
- Mixed Media
- Digital Art
- Visual Arts
Category 05
Photography
Encouraging young photographers to communicate stories, emotions, ideas, and perspectives through images.
Possible Areas Include
- Portrait
- Nature
- Travel
- Community
- Creative Photography
- Documentary Photography
Category 06
Community Service
Recognizing young people who contribute their time, leadership, compassion, and effort to improve their communities.
Possible Areas Include
- Volunteer Service
- Community Leadership
- Environmental Service
- Helping Others
- Youth Leadership
- Social Impact
Selection & Judging
Fair, Thoughtful and Meaningful Recognition
Applications and competition entries are reviewed according to the criteria established for each Metropolitan Award program. Depending on the category, evaluation may consider:
- Achievement
- Skill
- Creativity
- Originality
- Effort
- Technical Ability
- Expression
- Leadership
- Community Impact
- Age-appropriate accomplishment
Where appropriate, submissions may be evaluated by qualified educators, professionals, artists, musicians, community leaders, or other relevant reviewers.
Age divisions may be used to provide fair evaluation among participants at similar developmental stages.
Awards & Recognition
Recognition Appropriate to Every Program
Recipients may receive recognition appropriate to the individual competition or program, such as:
Metropolitan Award recognition
Winner or finalist designation
Certificate of Achievement
Medal or Trophy
Online Winner Profile
Invitation to selected ceremonies or special events
Metropolitan Award does not promise a specific prize, scholarship, cash award, trophy, ceremony, or benefit unless officially announced for that competition.