P4SSION

Instead of teaching students that college is an absolute requirement to succeed in life, I want to let kids know that they do not need to spend thousands of dollars to gain a great education. I would love to create a network that introduces users to different types of problems. Problems could range from a solving a simple task to developing a new way to provide water in third world countries. Applicants would be able to provide their feedback and investors could provide a prize such as cash or the opportunity to create their design with professionals. All it takes is a fresh creative mind to solve a problem. As this helps solve problems of companies or even the world, it opens up opportunities for students/users to do their own research and find out situations that they really care about. I have not yet created a platform but I would love to develop my idea with the help of winning the Microsoft Imagine Cup.

As a military dependent, I have traveled and lived in different states and even countries. Most of the students I have encountered have a similar goal after graduating, they all want to go to college and make bank ($$$$$). I, on the other hand, want to find my passion and help others find theirs. As an artist, my peers and even family members discourage me from pursuing my love for creating. They say "it will not make you a decent living." Well, not with that attitude it won't. I know that there are young, creative, and brilliant minds out there that have a dream but have had their ideas and beliefs shut down before. I want to create a way to encourage those students to push for what they want and let them know there other ways to achieve their goals. As a high school senior at Croatan High School, I am doing my final research project on college. My research is trying to persuade my peers that college is a waste of time and money. Although I am going to Colorado State in the fall, I truly believe I could get a great education for little to no money. Successful people all have these traits in common: drive, creativity, and passion. I, Haley Agra, am going to make every student's passion a reality.