I created a safe space for middle school girls at SLA Beeber, serving as a role model and offering a sisterly bond. Inspired by my own efforts to strengthen my relationship with my sister, I aimed to provide support and a place for these girls to express themselves. My classmates and I developed a mini-course focused on team-building, icebreakers, and interactive activities.

Throughout the project, I connected with the girls on a deeper level, going beyond the typical student dynamic. I strived to be a big sister, addressing their concerns and fostering personal growth. The course spanned several months, including a get-to-know-you party, self-care sessions, and outdoor classes.

Despite facing delays and challenges in maintaining their interest, I remained determined to make a positive impact. We sought new activities and utilized online resources to keep them engaged. Collaboration with my classmates and effective communication were crucial for success.

This experience taught me the importance of community and selflessness. Interacting with these girls allowed me to appreciate the simplicity and step away from my own worries. The project aimed to empower the girls, boosting their self-esteem, academic performance, and social skills. Witnessing their progress made me proud, and I hoped that one of them would continue the tradition, inspiring and supporting younger girls in the future.

Overall, the project successfully provided a supportive space for middle school girls, fostering mentorship and personal development. It showcased the positive impact of older students on younger ones, fostering unity in our school community.

Our video focused on the presence of asbestos in various Philadelphia schools and how it has affected the students in these schools both mentally and socially. We chose this topic because this is an issue that has affected us directly and altered our high school experience. I personally regret not being able to enjoy physical gym classes in our gym due to the asbestos and am concerned for all the schools that have been temporarily closed at one point or another because of it. I believe we did well at showing how asbestos has affected the SLA community. I believe the execution of the video could have been done better. The most meaningful part of creating this PSA was learning how this issue can be combated and prevented. Also seeing how we as a school were able to overcome this obstacle and continue on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKcrFCVGdf8

1. How do the earth systems affect each other?

Volcanoes are formed when tectonic plates are pushed under one another. When water seeps into these rocks and squeezes them, magma is created, thus the geosphere and the hydrosphere interacting. When magma collects deep inside the volcano in what is known as the “magma chamber,” pressure builds and eventually forces its way to the stop causing the eruption. When the volcano erupts, volcanic matter and debris is put into the air and can cause climate damage and can make the air unsafe for humans and animals. If the eruption is bad enough, it can force humans and animals out of their homes and they may also be hurt or killed.

2. How can an understanding of environmental science aid in handling natural disasters?

Understanding what causes volcanic eruptions, where they are likely to occur, and how to avoid them can help in handling this natural disaster because it can save lives and help educate those who are unaware of the affects of volcanic eruptions other than what is commonly known.

3. What efforts can we make to create a sustainable future?

In order to create a sustainable future, volcanic eruption trainings as well as trainings for other natural disasters should be taught in every school, not just those who are at risk of these eruptions, so that there is a lesser chance that people are harmed.

Growing up watching nature shows and learning about volcanoes in middle school I was not very surprised about my findings. I was aware of the hazardous matter that is emitted into the air when volcanoes erupt and that volcanic eruptions happen in places called “hot spots.” However, I was surprised to find that volcanic eruptions can cause other natural disasters such as wildfires and floods, further causing mass destruction and homelessness to humans and animals native to the area.