I am an 18-year-old senior in the Global Studies and World Language Academy at Tallwood High School.

The culmination of this program is a research paper and event dealing with a global issue of your choice. 

I decided to focus on the gender gap in education because I feel it is a critical issue that is limiting the potential of countless girls and hindering global progress.

During my sophomore year I attended a video conference where I was able to speak with three young girls from Afghanistan about the gender gap in education. These girls, my global peers, expressed to me how deeply they craved an education and how they felt they could change their lives and communities if only given the tools.

Since that day I knew I wanted to help make a difference in the lives of girls like the ones I had spoken with. I wanted these girls to have the same opportunities that I have.

This spring I finally got the chance to make a difference.

I organized a silent art auction entitled Art With Heart. The proceeds from this auction went to Girl Up to benefit girls’ education around the world.

This auction was unique because it only included art from local artists and from the surrounding high schools.

(Some of the donated art)

After months of planning and advertising the auction took place. There was a huge turnout and by the end of the evening we had raised more than $500 for Girl Up.

The auction not only raised money, but awareness as well.

During the event I showed a presentation about the ripple effect uneducated girls have on the global community and ways to make a difference.  The event got people thinking, and more importantly, it inspired people. I plan on making Art With Heart an annual event.

This fall I will be attending New York University to study Gender and International Relations.

I am one of the lucky ones. I have the opportunity to actively pursue an education and have a say in my future.

I realize many girls are not this lucky. Art With Heart was for them.

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