The lecture by Professor Benedito Machava on the European colonization of Africa stuck with me the most. The extent of the effects historical factors had and continue to have on African politics, in general, made me relate the two social disciplines of history and politics closer together.
Around the end of July, Turkey experienced one of the most destructive forest fire seasons in its history. Ravaging almost the entirety of Southern Turkey’s forests, these fires were critically damaging the communities of the region and its wildlife.
As a part of the student council, I brought together my friends and fellow student representatives to start the UAAOYD (Uskudar American Academy Solidarity during Forest Fires) campaign. As the head of the campaign, I organized sub-committees (6 main sub-groups, each tackling a specific issue: animals and veterinary clinics, villages and communities in need, reforestation, village schools, service projects, and social media) to ensure we were running efficiently.
Working with the school administration and the team, I also started a fundraising campaign. The campaign was very successful, and we raised nearly 50,000 TL. We donated the money to one of the most trusted NGOs in Turkey, Ahbap, with whom we are still currently working with. Within the scope of the campaign, we will also organize reforestation projects where students will be able to help plant trees. The campaign taught me important lessons in teamwork and social responsibility. But, most importantly, I am thankful that we, as a team, got to make a difference by helping those communities and animals in need.