We’ve already completed the third week of the Annenberg Youth Academy program! This third week has been packed with learning opportunities and fun activities, which I’ll highlight in today’s blog. I’ve gained more confidence and was able to adventure through the campus more. The hot weather felt like it was at its peak this week, but the high AC saved me. But before diving into the details, let’s take a look at Monday!
Starting with Monday, I was excited to see what new projects and concepts we would be covering this week. In journalism, a new photo essay was assigned which allowed us to borrow cameras. I’ve always wanted a camera, so I was super happy. Usually, I would just snap a photo of anything on my phone camera, but the mechanics were so different on an actual camera. Having to consider the three-grid rule and lighting was a little difficult but got easier the more I took photos.
Moving on to Tuesday, there was a collaborative media project assigned which allowed us to work in groups. Our group, the Axolotls, got our first choice which was the postcard and pledge card campaign. The group work is going well and I am happy with my group mates. There was an AYA Alumni Panel next which I was only expecting to be from last year’s group but it went as far back as 2018. I was interested in all the former student’s journeys and their experience with college. It helped to listen to all their advice about AYA and how the materials we learn are applicable to anything. I have been worried about the college process, so hearing about their tips reassured me. I also planned to start a LinkedIn account after learning how important making connections are.
Lastly, on Wednesday, we had our last lecture-type meeting for communications which made me a little sad knowing that we are nearing the closing section of the program. I loved taking notes for the class and hearing other people’s inputs in various discussions. I also enjoyed the reading materials before a facilitated discussion and how it would sometimes connect to what we learn in journalism as well. As a special event, we had a bingo game where we had to go around and match someone’s interests or traits to mark a box. It was a very competitive game and everyone was fired up for a Chipotle gift card. It was a fun way for everyone to get to know each other better and find something you would share in common. I haven’t talked with everyone yet, so with this, I finally learned everyone’s names. I hope we have more of these community bonding activities. We also went back to the dining hall for lunch which I missed the last time we went. After lunch, I took a nice walk and enjoyed adventuring through the campus on my own time.
I hope that my final week here at AYA is as memorable as these three weeks. Stay tuned for next week!
Communicating Change 