Hi! My name is Serenity McGirk, and I’m a 17-year-old junior at Riverside High School in Chattaroy, Washington. I am thrilled to share that I’ve been selected to attend the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment (WYSE) at George Mason University in Washington, D.C. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent my school and state alongside other passionate students from across the country. I’ve always been deeply interested in marine life, shark conservation, and protecting the oceans. My dream is to become a marine biologist and dedicate my life to safeguarding the ocean and its creatures.
WYSE is a life-changing program for students interested in conservation and sustainability. During the week-long summit, I’ll participate in hands-on environmental projects and leadership training, gain unique access to research labs, the Smithsonian National Zoo, and field sites, and work with distinguished faculty, mentors, and speakers in the environmental field. I’ll also get to live on campus in state-of-the-art college residence halls, travel safely with organized transport, attend the National Youth Delegates Dinner and Gala, and earn a certificate of completion and college credit from George Mason University.
I’ve worked hard to earn this opportunity, maintaining a 3.9 GPA, earning the National Spanish Competition Bronze Medal twice, and serving as Secretary of the National Honor Society and my school’s Game Club. Outside of academics, I love art, chess, tennis, and crafting my own clothing and accessories, and I believe strongly in kindness, anti-bullying, and inclusiveness.
Attending WYSE will not only expand my knowledge and skills but also allow me to bring back leadership and conservation projects to my community in Washington State. I hope to mentor younger students, share what I learn about sustainability, and inspire others to take care of our environment. While I am applying for scholarships and other funding, the financial cost is a challenge for my family. Your support, whether through a donation, sharing this page, or helping me connect with sponsors, will make a real difference in helping me attend this life-changing program. Even a small contribution brings me one step closer to representing my school and state, growing as a leader, and making a positive impact on the world.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for supporting students who are passionate about making a positive impact. With your help, I can continue my journey toward marine conservation, leadership, and service to my community.
With gratitude,
Serenity McGirk
WYSE is a life-changing program for students interested in conservation and sustainability. During the week-long summit, I’ll participate in hands-on environmental projects and leadership training, gain unique access to research labs, the Smithsonian National Zoo, and field sites, and work with distinguished faculty, mentors, and speakers in the environmental field. I’ll also get to live on campus in state-of-the-art college residence halls, travel safely with organized transport, attend the National Youth Delegates Dinner and Gala, and earn a certificate of completion and college credit from George Mason University.
I’ve worked hard to earn this opportunity, maintaining a 3.9 GPA, earning the National Spanish Competition Bronze Medal twice, and serving as Secretary of the National Honor Society and my school’s Game Club. Outside of academics, I love art, chess, tennis, and crafting my own clothing and accessories, and I believe strongly in kindness, anti-bullying, and inclusiveness.
Attending WYSE will not only expand my knowledge and skills but also allow me to bring back leadership and conservation projects to my community in Washington State. I hope to mentor younger students, share what I learn about sustainability, and inspire others to take care of our environment. While I am applying for scholarships and other funding, the financial cost is a challenge for my family. Your support, whether through a donation, sharing this page, or helping me connect with sponsors, will make a real difference in helping me attend this life-changing program. Even a small contribution brings me one step closer to representing my school and state, growing as a leader, and making a positive impact on the world.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for supporting students who are passionate about making a positive impact. With your help, I can continue my journey toward marine conservation, leadership, and service to my community.
With gratitude,
Serenity McGirk
Organizer
