1. The papers should be original and at least 2500 words, but not more than 4000 words, in length, including notes and works cited. 2. The papers should show evidence of scholarly research; i.e., there should be a bibliography with more than the primary works included. 3. The papers should conform to MLA style. 4. The paper need not have been written for a class but must be accompanied by a cover letter written by a current ChLA member. 5. Submitters should include their email address and that of the students so that all can be notified of the outcome as soon as possible. If the students do not have email, the submitters should notify the students if they did not win. 6. A student may only be the recipient of the Carol Gay Award once during their time as an undergraduate student. 7. All nominated papers must be accompanied by a cover letter and submitted electronically on behalf of the student by a faculty member. 8. Only two submissions per faculty member will be accepted.