JCGP Product Proposal
State the topic and thesis of your Junior Paper. Why did you choose this topic?
The topic of my junior paper was on optimists and pessimists, and which are overall, happier.
I chose this topic to find out more about how optimism and pessimism affect people. Far too many people make themselves sick, and it starts with their outlook on life.
What, exactly, is your intended product?
My intended product will be an event, where I teach young girls about having a positive self-image.
Why did you choose this product and how does it relate to your research (if not obvious)?
I chose this product because I see girls that don’t even consider themselves beautiful, and this attitude is unhealthy for them. The conclusion of my junior paper was that optimists are generally healthier than pessimists. In the same way, having a positive self-image is healthier than a negative one.
Who have you selected for a mentor? What expertise does this person have which can help you with your product?
I have selected Kathryn Massey to be my mentor. She has led events and even regular programs at my church for kids.
How far does the mentor live from you? What is your relationship (friend, non-immediate family, know him/her only through Grad Project, etc.) with your mentor?
She lives about 20 minutes away from me. She is already a sort of mentor for me, like a motherly figure.
What particular resources (tools, facilities, knowledge, etc.) do you already have for this product?
With proper approval, I will be able to use my church to hold the event. I have previously worked with my friends, sharing tools I have learned to help build self-confidence, and to maintain a positive self-image. For a particular friend, I also put together a booklet as a sort of self-guide.
What progress have you made towards your Graduation Project (mentor, plan, contacts, actual hours, etc.)?
As of 9/6/11: I have not made much progress on my graduation project. I have materials to create more booklets to give to someone who may need it. I also have the beginnings of a plan for the outline of the event. The theme will be that every girl is a princess, and I will build from that. Most don’t consider themselves a princess or even someone of importance. My plan is to break down typical characteristics of a “princess”, and also work in the meaning of true beauty, in attempt to help the attendees have a foundation that is strong, and won’t easily cave in to a negative self-concept.
As of 9/27/11: I am in the process of getting a date approved to use the church for my project. I asked about October 22nd, and Aaron, the youth pastor, will make sure it gets approved. Kathryn has completed the mentor application, and we plan to have our first meeting on Tuesday, October 4th.
