We are about half way done with senior projects already, but it feels like I have been working on mine for an eternity. For my senior project I am working on my public speaking skills while traveling to different schools and talking to students about the importance of self-love. I have always weirdly enjoyed public speaking and have aspired to give a TED Talk in my lifetime. After meeting Alexis Jones last fall, and later Emily Greener in the spring, I was inspired to actively pursue this dream. Therefore, I took the opportunity to do so through a senior project, turning lessons I have learned over the years into the subject of my talks. I have narrowed my topic specifically to the importance of self-love, because I have found that it is the core lesson I have needed to learn so far in my lifetime.
In the past, I have spoken at Lincoln School and Our Sisters’ School, but this spring I have Boston College, Global Learning Charter Public School, and Elizabeth Carter Brooks Elementary School on my itinerary. As part of my senior project, I wanted to challenge myself with different audience types and really explore the idea of adapting a presentation to the audience. This has been interesting since I am speaking to groups ranging from fourth graders to college seniors. So far it has been a lot of self reflection, critique, and fine tuning. Using video, I am able to watch myself after giving a presentation to see what I did well and what needs improvement. It has been fulfilling to see how far I have come since learning this lesson I am now teaching. My talk at Boston College was an incredible opportunity and presented a great learning experience. Next, I will be traveling to my old elementary school to speak.
This time has been such a unique opportunity to dedicate part of my learning to something so ambitious while I am still in school. I am so grateful to this program for letting me kick start a long term goal of mine. Ultimately, through this project, I hope to improve my public speaking skills and organization skills while working with other organizations, being able to adapt to different environments, and most importantly, to make a positive impact on those I speak with. To me, this project is more personal than academic; the message behind it really motivates me more than the idea of being graded. I cannot wait to not only see where I will be by the end of May, but where this will bring me in the future.
