Starting a passion project in high school

I've been thinking about starting a passion project during my high school years to showcase my interests and skills, but I'm unsure about how to start. Any tips on coming up with ideas or the steps to follow to make it happen?

Coming up with a passion project in high school is a fantastic way to showcase your interests and talents. Not to mention, it looks great on college apps because you went out of your way to pursue your interests. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Identify your interests and strengths: Reflect on what you genuinely enjoy doing, whether it's related to academics, hobbies, or other activities. Make a list of your strengths and skills associated with those interests to help you brainstorm potential project ideas.

2. Brainstorm ideas: Use your list of interests and strengths to brainstorm possible passion projects. Consider projects that will allow you to grow, solve a problem, or improve your community. Think about any gaps you'd like to fill in your extracurriculars, and create a project that can address that.

3. Research and refine: Once you have a few ideas, do some research to determine the feasibility of each project. Consider factors such as cost, resources, and time commitment. You can also look up examples of similar projects by other students or organizations for inspiration and guidance.

4. Plan and set goals: Develop a plan for your project, including a timeline, objectives, and milestones. Break the project down into actionable tasks, and set realistic, achievable goals to complete those tasks.

5. Gather resources and recruit help: Assess what resources you'll need for your project, such as materials, funds, or access to specific spaces. In some cases, you might want to collaborate with others or seek guidance from mentors or experts in your field.

6. Take action: Execute your plan, using your timeline and objectives as a guide. Be prepared to adapt and make changes as needed, while staying focused on your goals.

7. Document your progress: Keep track of your progress and accomplishments throughout your project. This documentation can be helpful when constructing your college applications and detailing your involvement in the project.

8. Share your work: Once your project is complete or has reached a significant milestone, showcase your work to others, either through social media, presenting at events, or submitting it for recognition or awards. Sharing your project can not only inspire others but also help solidify your experience when applying to colleges.

An example of a passion project could be creating a blog or podcast about a topic that fascinates you, like environmental conservation or mental health awareness. You could interview experts, write articles, and share resources with your audience. This project would highlight your interests, communication skills, and dedication to a cause—all traits that can boost your college application.

Best of luck on your passion project journey! Remember to choose something you’re genuinely enthusiastic about, and it’ll likely lead to a more enjoyable and successful experience.