What did you do for your Gold Award project?
Middle school can be a tough time for many students. While adults usually give great advice to students, students tend to listen to advice given from their peers more. To help students hear and understand tips about surviving middle school, I interviewed ten high school students about what they wish they were told in middle school, what their biggest problems were, how they handled them, and more. I then edited the interviews into a 10 minute video with the best and most relevant advice about academic, social, and self-esteem topics. (link for the video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWGEZ8edqu4)
How did you measure the impact your Gold Award project made on your target audience?
I measured the impact by the reactions of acquaintances on Facebook, in person, and on the video link. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and I’m excited to see how many people I can help with my project.
How is your project sustainable? How will your project continue to impact after your involvement?
I emailed my video to multiple middle schools, asking that they use it as they see fit and pass it on. Because it is a public video, anyone can view it and share it to other people, and it will grow beyond my involvement.
What is your project’s global and/or national connection?
The students I interviewed addressed a variety of different problems that apply to many middle school students. From bullying to peer pressure, academic stress to finding yourself, the topics are applicable nationwide.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that a large project can be simplified if it’s cut into smaller pieces. I also learned that, though I am usually a quiet person, I can be a great and effective leader, as I’m good at listening and understanding others. I learned the value of asking for help, and I learned that its okay to admit you’re having difficulty with something, especially to someone who can help you improve.
How will earning your Gold Award impact you in the future?
My Gold Award has put me on the path to success. It has taught me how to lead effectively and manage my time. I’ve enjoyed the experiences I’ve had during this project, and I look forward to completing other projects in the future.
Why do you feel the Gold Award was an important part of your Girl Scout experience?
The Gold Award was the most important part of my Girl Scout experience because it taught me how much of a leader I can be. It taught me about the balance between teamwork and individual work. It taught me about perseverance and patience, and I am very proud of the work I’ve completed. I hope it helps others as much as it helped me.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: This blog represents only a small fraction of the hard work, dedication and requirements that go into earning a Girl Scout Gold Award. It is simply a brief summary, which is meant to inspire Girl Scouts to Go Gold in the future. For more information on earning your Gold Award, please email highestawards@gscolorado.org