Way to Go: Anne Ambrosio, Deer Park

A Deer Park teen's essay has been named among a handful of winners worldwide for her thoughts on a renowned novel.

Anne Ambrosio, a home-schooled senior who also takes Advanced Placement classes at Deer Park High School, was one of five third-place winners internationally in an essay contest open to high school seniors and administered by the Ayn Rand Institute. For winning, she received a $1,000 college scholarship.

The contest challenged students to submit 1,600-word essays that gauged the philosophic meaning of Rand's 1957 novel "Atlas Shrugged." Ambrosio's essay explored a pirate character named Ragnar Danneskjöld who is intent on destroying the various ideals of Robin Hood.

"I was so excited to win; it was a good Christmas present," said Ambrosio, 17, noting that she was notified of her achievement Dec. 23. "It means a lot to me, and it makes me feel good about my writing skills."

Essay entries were evaluated as part of a four-round process in which they were judged on their style, content and clarity.

"This is quite an impressive achievement in a very competitive contest," Deer Park social studies teacher Matt Murphy said. "She's a wonderful young lady and I am so proud of her."

In her spare time, Ambrosio enjoys reading fiction. Her favorite author is Regina Doman, a Christian writer who is known for retelling fairy tales.