TrueStar Staff 
True Star’s summer session participants recently got together one last time to celebrate the end of their summer programs. The day was filled with laughter, joy, and energy as all of the programs – Digital Media Institute (DMI), Podcasting & Content Creation (BBF), and Broadcast Technology (Corliss) – made it to the finish line of these six weeks. Activities were organized, speeches were given, and presentations were made.
Once all the programs were at HQ, the teaching artists took time to introduce some icebreakers giving everyone an opportunity to mingle with different people outside of their programs and possibly make a new friend. Though separating everyone became mildly “chaotic,” it all came together at the end.
Everyone learned how to collaborate in big groups with many different opinions, and work something out to complete the given assignment. Mock pitches were made and presented. Each group was given a basic item and told to pitch it to the audience. The activity was able to break a lot of kids out of their shells and even bring out their goofy and funny sides while presenting.
Jamela Jenkins, an incoming senior at Simeon Career Academy, thought that the activities were a fun way to start the day. “It was nice being able to meet new people and work together to make something special.”
After a small recess, it was time for each program to present a recap of their summer session. Corliss’s Broadcast Technology program kicked it off as they showed everyone their “Gatorade” ad, along with one for “Goldfish” crackers. They even showed scenes from the podcast they created called “ASM Chronicles.” Everyone was impressed with how well the group looked and the creativity they displayed.
The BBF group was up next. They have done many amazing podcasts and interviews. One being a really great interview with people talking about the dangers of nicotine. Everything was set up nicely and definitely felt like a true podcast. One of the best episodes featured Illinois State Rep. candidate Shantel Franklin. Instead of creating the assigned number of episodes, they went beyond and ended up making fourteen episodes during those weeks. The rest of the groups were shocked at how much they conquered in a short period of time.
Lastly, it was time for the DMI group’s projects. While this group as a whole was nervous to show their commercials, they got the chance to look at their final project and realize what a great job they had done. There were two groups for each business: Shawn Michelle’s Ice Cream, Sip and Savor and Pookie Crack Cakes. In the end, the Cha Cha group won first place (a $50 Amazon gift card for each member) for their Sip & Savor commercial. The company’s founder, Trez Pugh was even on hand to watch the commercial. “This was amazing,” he said.
Everyone in the audience loved the ads and the room even busted out in laughter because of the sense of humor the ads had. This group really outdid themselves.
When everyone thought the screening was over, they were surprised by getting to see recaps made by the “From The ‘Go Fest” team. It was definitely a great way to top the screenings.
Return participant, Akristah Bishop, an incoming senior at Hyde Park Academy, had a great time at the event as well. “I just liked to see how everyone came together as a team, and to be creative to create visually pleasing pieces.”
At the end of the day, it was time for awards. Students got to find out who was voted a “True Star” amongst their peers and instructors. Winners received gifts cards. Each and every participant also received their own certificates for completing the program. The room was filled with excitement when everyone realized that they’d reached the finish line. Overall, the kids enjoyed their time together through the summer as well as at the ceremony, leaving their mark on True Star.
By Natalia Barland, Senior, Hyde Park Academy
Instagram: @Tallythewallyy
