The Importance of Water by Hannah D.

Community Service: How and Why

By: Angelina N. 

Although it is important to study intensively, discover your interests, and pursue your aspirations in high school, it is also crucial to acknowledge the significance of giving back to the community. It is undeniable that the quality and welfare of the community depends on the individuals within it. If the members of a community readily contribute to it, then the community will have a thriving and healthy environment, but if the members of a community only focus on their own individual pursuits, then the community will have a much more distinguishable characteristic of inequality. To prevent this, you can begin at a local level by doing community service, which will not only benefit numerous members of your community but will also increase your appeal to college committees. 

So, what exactly is community service and how can you acquire volunteer hours? Community service encompasses all activities relating to benefiting the community. Due to the countless possibilities of community service, it is a great way to not only improve your local area but also a great way to exercise your strengths and spend time doing your hobbies. Below is a presentation providing a list of options for community service hours depending on your hobbies and strengths: 

The choices for benefitting your community are endless, and you can view it as a way to spend time doing your hobbies while spreading your passion to others. Community service hours make your college application stronger, serve as an exemplary opportunity to exhibit leadership skills, and have a direct positive impact on those around you. 

A Note From the Editor: What's With All the Walkouts?

By: Isabella S.

The power of today’s youth is a “hot topic” in our society right now. With national walkouts, marches, and boycotts, students everywhere are making their voices heard. So, what’s the big deal? Does it really matter if we, as teens, get involved? I mean, some of us can’t even vote. Are they really going to listen to a bunch of kids? The simple answer: yes. Yes, your voice matters. Yes, they will listen. Yes, you are important.

Your Voice:

When we speak, we free our opinions and show others that they are not alone. Chances are there is someone out there who agrees with you but is scared to speak up. Speak for them. Speak for yourself. 

When you tell others how you feel, you are telling yourself that your feelings matter. 

Even if they don’t listen, they will hear you. Simply having a conversation with someone can brighten their day, tell them they’re not alone, introduce them to a new perspective, and encourage them to take action.

Your Actions:

Being politically active may seem like a daunting task. A term reserved for the Greensboro Four, Thomas Paine, and Alice Paul, this phrase may inspire images of huge rallies, presidential campaigns, and international marches. Though many individuals hold this perception, being a political activist is not as difficult as it seems. For example, 

someone who claims to be physically active is not expected to run daily marathons.

They may simply play a sport they enjoy or workout routinely. In the same way, to be politically active all you have to do is find something that speaks to you— some topic that inspires you and motivates you to act. These actions can be as simple as watching the news and listening to your peers. Staying informed is the first step to cultivating a reaction. Other examples of political activities include joining the student government, calling your representatives, attending town hall and community meetings, volunteering with a political campaign, or even organizing a walkout. The most important element to keep in mind is your values. Make sure that whatever you choose to do is productive to the cause you are supporting and that you are proud of yourself at the end of the day. 

Step outside of your comfort zone and pull a few friends along with you. 

It’s all about the experience and your ability to make a difference.

Your Purpose:

As a teen, your actions are not only a measure of your own determination but they are also crucial to society. No other generation has the same experience as the current teenage population. No adults can claim to share our perspective. Our voices are unique and our viewpoints varied. So, do not be afraid to disagree with adults. Experience does not yield perfection. They’re people too! Plus, their experiences are also limited in their own way. We’re all learning and growing. 

With topics such as politics, the world is constantly evolving and we should be too.

Your Revolution:

Through "walking the talk" and acting out your own beliefs, having healthy conversations about different opinions, and being involved in your community, along with its various organizations, you— as one, young person— can start a movement. Every action has an equal reaction. The impact of every small act will be multiplied every time it touches a new individual. 

Be passionate. Be compassionate. Be heard.