Zicklin Sidewalk: The NYC Sidewalk Violations Scholarship

Who Should Apply?
If you’re a student who cares about how cities function, how equity is built into infrastructure, or how design impacts daily life—you’re the kind of thinker we’re hoping to hear from.

Eligibility:

• Open to high school seniors, college undergraduates, or graduate students
• Enrolled (or accepted) at an accredited institution in the U.S. or Canada
• No major or field of study restrictions
• No GPA requirement

The Essay Prompt
“The Role of Sidewalks in Building Safer and More Inclusive Communities.”

Your essay should be 750 to 1,000 words. It should reflect your personal or academic perspective. It should challenge assumptions or highlight overlooked issues. Above all, it should show that you’ve truly considered the subject.

Possible angles to explore:

• How neglected sidewalk conditions create hazards for disabled or elderly populations
• The connection between walkability and economic equity
• Urban planning failures related to sidewalk maintenance in low-income neighborhoods
• How smart design or local policy can reduce sidewalk-related injuries
• A personal story that reshaped how you view public pedestrian spaces

You are not required to use research or data—but thoughtful, well-reasoned essays are encouraged. Personal tone is fine, but clarity and purpose are essential.

How to Submit

Submissions must be uploaded through the contact form on the webpage. No email attachments or mailed documents will be considered.

What to include:

• Your full name
• Name of your school and program
• Proof of enrollment (student ID, transcript, or acceptance letter)
• Your essay in PDF or Word (.doc/.docx) format
• A valid email address