Students will get the chance to hear leading American neurosurgeon and motivational speaker Dr. Ben Carson next month.

Local organisers of Dr. Carson's visit, Successories of Bermuda, have arranged for Dr. Carson -- who will speak at the Seventh Day Adventist Youth Centre Hall in Hamilton on April 8 -- to meet separately with students earlier in the day.

Mr. William Spriggs of Successories said students can attend the event for $12 through Government, business, community organisation, or school sponsorship only.

"All school primary and secondary heads and guidance counsellors have the event information,'' he said, adding that space is limited.

But students who may miss Dr. Carson's address will have the opportunity to win educational or personal development videos through a "Dr. Ben Carson Student Success Contest''.

The contest, organised by Successories, is open to all students who have read Dr. Carson's latest book "Think Big: Unleashing Your Potential for Excellence''.

Students are required to write about how the book "positively impacted their life'', Mr. Spriggs explained.

"Opportunities, ideas and goals that have resulted from the reading of "Think Big'' should also be shared.'' Entries should not be more than one hand-written page, he added.

Judging will be done by Successories representatives based on the following criteria: originality of thought as related to the contestant's goals and objectives; implementation of new ideas, improved work ethic, strategies for achievement etc. into the contestant's life; and communication of commitment, enthusiasm and attitude.

The winner of the primary school category will receive three educational videos worth $75. The secondary school winner will receive two personal development "Easy Read'' books and one "Unlimited Power'' audio tape personal development programme worth $100. And the college-age winner will receive their choice of personal and professional development audio/video programmes worth $125.

Entries must be mailed to Successories of Bermuda, P.O. Box HM 2565, Hamilton HMKX and postmarked before Wednesday.