Get experiences to grow up

Competitions are not the pressure challenges, but also are interesting experiences to help us to grow up and learn. TEDxYouth@Penn is also such a playground.

In preparation for participating in TEDxYouth, students found information related to the topic, developed their own ideas, and practiced to improve their confidence in front of the stage.

“The theme ‘Innovation in Technology’ wasn’t unfamiliar, amidst the pandemic, technology played a larger role in life than ever before. To prepare, I read the book “Talk like Ted” by Carmine Gallo, and watched videos on the platform itself. It took me a long time to come up with an idea I wanted to talk about. In the end, I decided to talk about the freedom of Technology, using Ariel (The Disney Princess) as an example to portray this. I was glad to have come up with an idea that I really wanted to talk about, and something I truly stood by.”

Nguyen Chau Anh – ADP9

On the stage, speakers’ experiences are different. However, most of them are a little bit nervous at the first time, but after that they will be excited.  

“I felt so nervous and everything felt unreal during my speech. It took a lot of deep breaths before I could calm down. When I was giving the speech, at first, I could barely remember anything I had practiced, so I began to feel anxious. However, after getting past a few slides, I ended up loosening up and I honestly was beginning to enjoy myself. After the event, I started feeling more confident and I am very happy to have been able to participate in the talk.” 

Nguyen Ha My – B6A

Through TEDxYouth, students will have an opportunity to develop themselves. Essential skills are applied flexibility through their presentation. 

“I have learned many valuable things through attending this event. I also learned how to use body language when giving a speech, which I have never thought I could do before such as making eye contact, moving around the stage and getting closer to the audience. From being a shy little girl, I couldn’t believe I’ve made it and boosted my confidence.”

Nguyen Le Bao Ngoc – B8

Not only improving their confidence, TEDxTalk is also a competition in which students can develop and learn from each other. 

“I get to see people younger, the same age and older than, with different talents and ideas. The way they perform on stage is very impressive to me. Everyone has different special features. In the final round, I was really surprised with everyone’s ideas and their ability to speak on stage.”

Nguyen Ngoc Bao Han – I8

Experiences at TEDxYouth@Penn will be a memorable one for each participant. Through their performance, they will understand their own abilities as well as learn new things. This is also the reason why PennSchool establishes many experiential activities as well as encourages students to challenge themselves.