Reflections and Key Takeaways from a Pioneering Educational Summit

In the realm of academic and innovative excellence, the Houston NAE Summit stands as a beacon of opportunity and inspiration. As an IBDP-2 student from Oakridge International, this prestigious summit was not just an event for me—it was a defining moment in my journey, marked by dedication, creativity, and growth.

A Vision Takes Flight:

My journey to the Houston NAE Summit began long before the event itself. As an IBDP student, I was at a pivotal stage in my academic career, juggling the demands of my curriculum with a deep passion for innovation. My involvement in the summit stemmed from a project that combined my interests in technology and sustainability, setting the stage for a remarkable showcase of talent and determination.

A Stellar Summit Experience: Arriving in Houston, I was greeted by an atmosphere brimming with excitement and intellectual energy. The summit was a convergence of brilliant minds, and I felt I could note down the takeaways that would enhance our project that we were going to present on the final day.

Workshops on Global Impact: The summit began with an insightful orientation led by the NAE social impact team, followed by a comprehensive safety briefing at the Village School. Ms. Leslie Williams then guided us through a workshop on values and leadership, which was instrumental in helping us explore and understand our own strengths and weaknesses. Next, we engaged in couple of workshops by Generation Global that focused on fostering collaboration for global impact and honing our dialogue skills. Working in groups, we refreshed our knowledge about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UNICEF’s Child-Friendly Cities initiative, guided by representatives from UNICEF HQ and UNICEF USA. It was a perfect team building experience.

Project Presentation: At the heart of the summit, we were three students representing Oakridge International Visakhapatnam. We presented our project with both poise and enthusiasm. Our innovative approach to energy efficiency not only showcased our technical skills but also highlighted our ability to tackle real-world challenges. Learning and Networking: The summit offered me more than just a platform to present my work. It provided opportunities to attend workshops and sessions led by industry leaders, where I gained valuable insights into the latest advancements in technology and innovation. Networking with other participants and professionals allowed me to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations, broadening my horizons and enriching my experience.

Looking Forward: As I reflect on my experience at the Houston NAE Summit, I carry forward not only the knowledge and recognition gained but also a heightened enthusiasm for future endeavors. The summit was a significant milestone, marking the beginning of new opportunities and challenges. The support and encouragement from Oakridge International played a crucial role in my journey. My mentor’s emphasis on fostering creativity and critical thinking created an environment where I could thrive and pursue my passion with confidence.

Shrujan Bhupathiraju