It is a common opinion that young people today are “detached” and “disconnected.” However, I feel that this is the opposite. Technology has opened a whole new world of pathways of communication. It allows us to relate to others all over the world. It also has become an unlimited encyclopedia which young people can tune into and share their opinions and ideas (hopefully in a positive and constructive way). Although technology has its downsides, overall I feel it has contributed to a more educated and in touch generation, more willing to take action towards what they believe in.

A human rights issue I feel compelled to learn more about is the Ebola epidemic. A few years ago, the outbreak got much attention, but since then the life threatening disease has not been focused on as much. It is still an issue that affects many people, especially in third world countries. I feel that learning more about this issue will help me become a better global citizen. I am compelled to take action because this epidemic is something that affects people worldwide and on a daily basis. I could bring awareness about this by tweeting news about what is happening with the outbreaks.

The steps that Design Thinking entails will be extremely helpful skills as I continue to develop my project. Using the stages of this process will act as a guideline to help me make my lesson plan the best it can be. One of the most important stages to my project is empathy. Showing the students the affects of climate change and emphasizing how everybody in our world will be impacted will hopefully open these individuals eyes and cause them to take action.

Ideas for Innovations Project

#1) Child protection in the foster care system is mediocre at best. Children are moved from home to home with parents who may be fostering these kids for the wrong reasons. I was to find a way to make sure kids are put in safe foster home’s.

#2) Find ways to educate the next generation about climate change that will become part of their daily lives and resonate with them

#3) Promote female empowerment with philosophies such as body positivity in hope to limit those struggling with body image. Raise awareness and educate others on fueling their body for success.

All of these topics speak to me and are impact my life in one way or another. I am not yet sure which of these resonates the most at this point in time. However, all of these apply to personal and impact standards. I would consider all of these ideas to be classified as impactful, but my third idea is the most personal out of all.

If I had all the money in the world I would spend my time traveling abroad and become an international volunteer to do my part in improving the world. As a volunteer I would not only be able to gain first hand experience, I would have the incredible opportunity to make a difference in others lives. I feel it is crucial for those who are fortunate to give back however they can. With all the money in the world I would have the opportunity to impact many lives and while seeing the world at the same time.

I would also donate money to research organizations that look for ways to reduce the impact and progression of climate change. For example, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) are two remarkable organizations that do an abundant amount of work towards improving the worlds current status regarding global warming.

Lastly, I would donate to foster care organizations. Foster children have little support and are often overlooked by the system. There is little support for teens who age out of the foster care system, and it is estimated that 40% of these kids do not graduate high school. Children often go unheard and overlooked or have suffered abuse or neglect. I would use this money to find ways to improve the system and try to advocate for these children who, in most cases, cannot speak up for themselves.

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton