Personal Narrative: Kids Are Scientists

A significant opportunity in my life that has had a major impact on me is an organization called Kids Are Scientists Too. KAST is a student-run non-profit corporation that aims to inspire young scholars to be interested in science and learning through fun, interactive science experiments led by passionate teachers. I was one of those passionate teachers. When I first heard of KAST, I immediately knew that I could contribute to the organization. I applied to become the lead at an elementary school, and after I was deemed fit for the role, I was chosen as the lead of a local elementary school. As the lead, I had several responsibilities. I went to a local elementary school every Friday after school to teach a class full of young, aspiring students. …show more content…
I was responsible for not only managing the volunteers that helped us out every week, but also bringing and coordinating the materials for the easy, interactive experiment. Although KAST demanded a significant amount of time and effort, it was well worth it for the impact it has had on me as well as the children. As with most great experiences, there were challenges I had to face over the course of my two years with KAST. The biggest of these challenges presented itself near the end of my final year, when the KAST sessions were coming to an end. I had to prepare for the last session of the year, which forced me to think outside the box to ensure the kids had a great lasting impression over the summer break. Typically, I would just put together a PowerPoint presentation on a science topic and then scour the internet related experiments, but this time I wanted to do something unique. I essentially came up with a plan to create a review game that would cover all of the topics I had covered throughout the year. The review game would have to be fun and …show more content…
I came out of the classroom with a sense of accomplishment, knowing that I had helped and inspired a class of young students. There is truly no better feeling in the world than knowing you have made a difference in the lives of others, and that is the feeling I got every Friday. Other than giving me a sense of achievement, KAST has changed me as a person. I have definitely developed strong leadership skills due to my roles and responsibilities. I have learned how to effectively manage a group of volunteers and make the most out of their time and skills. Additionally, I have accrued unparalleled experience in teaching a class of children. Being up there at the front of the class, leading a group of kids, takes a different kind of skill that most do not have. It is my experience with kids that has led me to become an effective, well-respected teacher. Kids are Scientists Too has truly been my golden opportunity, and I am thankful every day for my decision to seize