PERSONAL PROJECT HIGHLIGHT: OLIVIA | DEVELOPING A WASTE MANAGE SYSTEM

What was your project about? Why did you choose this topic?

For my personal project, I developed a waste management system for the building I live in. I really enjoy leading and managing projects. So, I looked for a problem that I wanted to fix, keeping in mind that I wanted to do something relating to helping the environment. I found out that the buildings in my community did not segregate residents' waste, with inefficient methods that I knew could be maximized. So, I decided to lead it!

What was the most challenging part of the project?

The most challenging part of the project was the research required to make a successful waste management system. This was because I needed to do both secondary and primary research. I needed to interview a lot of people, many of which I wasn't familiar with (and a lot older), so I needed to step out of my comfort zone. Some of the people I needed to talk to were the heads of segregation companies, my building's board, residents. I knew that my goal was to eventually implement the system in real life, and so I made sure to take a lot of this seriously. 

What was the most rewarding part of the project?

The most rewarding part of my project was seeing my waste management actually be implemented! Initially, it was supposed to be a proposal that I would send to the building managers, but over time I noticed that the solutions I gave them were being done (ex. seminars for the Ates and Kuyas, posters in English and Filipino, and the actual waste management system). 

What did you learn from doing this project?

I learned a lot about time management, communication (in person and on paper), and how to formally write papers (my proposal and PP paper). When I developed the waste management system, I learned how to organize different components of a system and put it together, making something that produces good results in the most efficient way.  

How did this project help you develop your Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills?

Research and communication were the main ATL Skills I used to achieve my learning goal. 

They worked hand in hand in order to cover all the bases of knowledge about waste management I needed to know.  I used the thinking skill frequently, especially for my product goal, because I needed to think of ideas that would help solve issues residents had, and be creative with the way I went about it. I also used this to combine the learnings I obtained from my prior schooling, primary, and secondary research. 

How did this project connect to your personal interests and passions?

As I thought about what I wanted my personal project to be, I knew that I wanted to make use of the skills I learned throughout my MYP years, help address a global issue that I am passionate about, and translate it to a project that solves it on a local scale. I have always been an advocate of climate change and pollution. I realized how I not only have the proper skills but also enjoy leading projects, developing realistic and concrete ideas, and managing different parts to execute everything as a whole. I have always believed that it is important to take action as soon as possible whether on a small or large scale. 

What advice would you give to other students who are working on their Personal Projects?

Start early! And do something that you know that you can do for a long period of time without feeling drained. Pick something that utilizes your skills well but also something that you enjoy doing!