Transformational Learning and Self Discovery

Transformational Learning and Self Discovery

By Ani Baghouzian ’24

There are 21 banners on display in the HTS gym—a showcase of our High-Performance Athletes and a testament to their dedication. These banners serve as a daily reminder of HTS’s commitment to the values of perseverance and excellence, and they hold great personal significance to me. Why? Well, I actually made these banners thanks to HTS’s unwavering support, resources and belief in my abilities. The accomplishment makes me deeply proud.

Upon entering HTS during my tenth grade year, I immediately sensed that I had stepped into a realm of boundless potential. This was no ordinary institution; it was a place where passions ignited and aspirations flourished. My journey to creating the banners began when I had an opportunity to take a course called Technological Design (TDJ3M). As part of the course, I was asked to think about my greatest interests and how I might like to make an impact. My project’s goal was both ambitious and purposeful: crafting personalized banners for our HighPerformance Athletes who epitomize HTS’s ethos of determination and commitment.

Guided by teacher mentors and experts, the project’s journey posed challenges and tested my confidence. Yet, each setback helped to fuel my personal growth. Failures became stepping stones which led to greater resilience and perseverance— qualities which are ingrained in every HTS student. Moreover, this endeavor marked a personal leap in my own independence. I became self-reliant—owning my ideas, implementing them and seeing them through. A particularly transformative moment occurred during a conversation with Mrs. Raso, which helped to reinforce my beliefs in my own capabilities and underlined the significance of trust within our HTS community.

Once the banners were complete, I collaborated with my teacher mentors Mr. O’Neill and Mrs. Stephens to scout locations to showcase them. We were seeking a prominent placement to ensure the banners would become sources of inspiration and motivation for everyone traversing the school corridors. Today, these banners grace our athletes’ space— a vivid reminder of their dedication and perseverance. Far beyond decorations, they embody the core values of HTS.

Throughout this journey, supportive mentors guided me—offering instruction, but also encouragement. Ms. Bramley stood out as the driving force that breathed life into my banners—transforming them into vibrant displays within the gym gallery.

The journey of creating the banners served to enhance my grasp of technology design, while enabling me to leave a lasting mark on our school community. But, beyond technology design, this project also kindled a passion for lifelong learning. It spurred me on to embrace new challenges and unlocked an eagerness for future possibilities.

Beyond the realm of technology design, this project has transformed me into a lifelong learner. It has ignited a fire within me to take on new challenges and I am filled with excitement about the future possibilities that lie ahead. I have come to appreciate that, at HTS, education transcends traditional boundaries and is not limited to lectures, textbooks and exams; it’s about embracing every opportunity to learn, grow and contribute.

I stepped into a realm of boundless potential. This was a place where passions ignited and aspirations flourished.