My project involves creating an organization that facilitates a unique learning environment for children ages 8 to 18 in the Tampa Bay area (and wherever else I can make a valuable impact). The learning I hope to provide children through this project is the kind of learning that compliments what they learn in the classroom, a combination of traditional and experiential education. Often, there is a focus on solely academics, which is great, but not when it is the only form of learning considered. I want children to see how they can connect and apply what they learn to their life. They should understand that disciplines intersect all the time and that they learn better by applying what they learn to themselves. Doing this is what has motivated me to always keep learning because it is so fascinating to see how concepts apply to our lives in the most unexpected ways. I want to be able to provide children with mentors that can teach them important life lessons that they may not have learned otherwise. Many children don’t have prominent figures in their life that can positively shape their outlook on life. Even the children that do have role models would benefit by having someone to confide in and a community to have fun with (by playing sports and engaging in activities). My goal of this program is to not only provide these children with people and places they can learn from and in, but to ensure that they know that learning never stops in the classroom and that learning is never a bad thing. If children can develop positive values and a greater understanding of themselves and their purpose in this world, then I know I am accomplishing my goal of educating and inspiring future generations.

In short, my program would provide Tampa youth with a unique learning experience that integrates traditional and experiential, or practical, learning in a way that promotes positive values and a greater understanding of themselves.