Educational program makes BIG impression

About one year ago, I was entering the dreadful junior year in high school. I didn't want to go sit in class for six hours a day and be just like every other student. I was presented with the opportunity to join IowaBIG, a school where students learn through their passions and through projects in the community. When I started at BIG, I had no idea what to expect, I was just along for the ride. In hindsight, I am so grateful that I agreed to try going to a school that doesn't have classrooms, periods or even hallways. I had one teacher that got to know me and we created SuccessS.H.E. together.

The next year that unfolded was a whirlwind of crazy experiences and me overcoming my fears. I learned how to crave learning material I needed to to continue my project and motivate myself. I scheduled meetings with adults, I gave presentations about my project and the school that taught me so much and in May, I hosted a conference to empower young women. There were six speakers and about 150 people in attendance. In June, I presented at 1Million Cups in Cedar Rapids and realized I was finally an entrepreneur. Later in June, I presented at Workplace Revolution and did my first speech without notecards or a presentation. On June 30th, I learned the most important lesson that I have learned all year. Yes, I gained so much as a student, leader, applicant, public speaker, future employee, but the most important thing I learned is about the community I call home.

That day in June, I was invited to the Downtown Cedar Rapids Rotary's Service Above Self Awards Luncheon. I was nominated and received an award for my work the past year. Even more than that, I was handed a nice check to donate to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, an organization very near to my heart. It was when I returned to my chair that I realized all that I learned this year has made me such a better person and that I am able, by just doing something I love, to impact my community. The other award recipients had such a passion for Cedar Rapids, and I know how important it is to invest in the community I am a part of.

I can't thank this community enough for everything it has done for me. I hope to inspire other young people to do what they love, and share with them the support I have received. It amazes me how supportive and trusting the community is. I have gained hope for my future in Cedar Rapids and so much pride for the place I come from. I am proud to report that after this year, there will be 60 more kids just like me who have attended IowaBIG. Watch out Cedar Rapids, you have created a community for kids like us to do what we love and you can't get rid of us very easily.

l Kinzie Farmer is a Shueyville resident and IowaBIG student. Comments: kinziefarmer@iowabig.org.