Every year, the sophomores in US History develop a National History Day project that must be on the year’s topic. The students usually start in October and have time to prepare until February. Then they are also given the opportunity to compete against other schools. It is a great chance to meet new people and discover more ideas.
Each year is a great opportunity to discuss important historical events that made a mark. Despite the importance of every year’s competitions, this year is subtly more particular. This year, juniors Chyna Delker and Lucy Nielsen classified for the competition’s national level.
The state-level competition in Lincoln was already a great experience. Having fun is often part of the adventure, but it usually turns out that new friendships are around the bend.
“The competition was fantastic. I always love seeing other people’s projects from around the state and being able to learn something while competing. I’ve also made friends at every level of the competition and state was no different! No year has been a disappointment thus far,” Nielsen states.
The two students were very fermented of getting such an opportunity.
“I am very excited to be going to the national level again. It was super fun last summer!” Delker says.
“I’m super excited to be going to Nationals! Chyna and I went last year and had such a fantastic time. We saw so many incredible projects, explored the museums and memorials, showed ridiculous amounts of Nebraska pride, met people from all around the world, and had a week-long sleepover. It was fantastic. This year we’re hoping to break to finals!” Nielsen adds.
National History Day is the impeccable event to showcase the stories of men and women that tried to change our world with their efforts. This year’s project for Nielsen and Delker brings us to 1916 Ireland.
“Our project was about the Cumann na mBan. This was the group of women who rebelled in the 1916 Easter Rising, Ireland’s push for independence,” Nielsen continues.
Researching all the materials for the project is surely tiresome, but luckily this group’s core and legacy is based on friendship and mutual help.
“My parents are always a huge support in History Day. Transport, equipment, you name it. But my biggest supporter in History Day is undoubtedly Chyna. Doing a partner project with her has always been such a great experience. We really push each other to be our best selves,” Nielsen affirms.
“Lucy and I have different skills that complement each other a lot. She is analytical and I am more emotional. These skills work together to make us the perfect team to create documentaries,” Delker continues.
“The national competition is June 10-14. I’ll be editing the documentary to make it look more professional and making sure our bibliography is perfect. Besides that, I’m just making sure I have money saved up for souvenirs!” Nielsen ends.
