Stories
Meet Katlyn
In the summer of fifth grade, Katlyn embarked on an exhilarating journey. It all started in Hot Springs with digital stories, and ever since then, she became a PAGE regular, attending each year. Katlyn was particularly captivated by the storytelling sessions and the Building Habitats session, but it was the science-related activities that she thrived in. Sporting a dependable hand lens, she immersed herself in exploring the miniature world around her, which continues to astound her to this day.
Participating in PAGE has been a transformative experience for Katlyn, empowering her with a newfound sense of confidence and strength. Previously, she felt adrift, uncertain of her direction in life. However, PAGE served as a guiding light, enabling her to realize her full potential and understand that she's capable of achieving anything she desires.
“The community at PAGE is welcoming and will always provide you with the necessary resources if you need anything. It’s a new experience every year to participate in, and it’s always exciting to see what’s next and how we can develop as a group”. - Katlyn
PAGE has significantly transformed Katlyn’s life. Previously, she had been grappling with a sense of insecurity and a lack of direction. However, PAGE has served as a catalyst for her personal growth, empowering her and enabling her to recognize and achieve her full potential. As a result, she’s gained newfound confidence and purpose with each stride forward.
“I have gained a lot of knowledge about how to express my emotions in videography and photography… PAGE provided me with the opportunity to learn many good coping skills with my mental state.” - Katlyn
PAGE played a pivotal role in transforming Katlyn's outlook on life, instilling her with newfound positivity and courage. For example, despite initial reluctance, PAGE encouraged Katlyn to participate in a poetry group, which ultimately sparked an appreciation for the art form. Through this lens, Katlyn developed a unique outlet for coping, enabling her to find meaning in the seemingly meaningless aspects of life.
When the pandemic disrupted Katlyn's life during 8th grade, she initially saw it as a temporary reprieve from school. However, the situation became more complicated when her brother's autoimmune condition made it unsafe for her to attend school. Katlyn and her family made the decision to switch to homeschooling, which presented its own set of challenges. Her mother became her teacher, and they scoured the internet for resources and tests, even enrolling in free Harvard business courses together. Despite the obstacles, Katlyn is determined to earn her high school diploma by December.
Nonetheless, the transition to homeschooling posed difficulties, especially with regards to socialization. On a positive note, Katlyn's job at Dairy Queen has helped her to come out of her shell and feel more like an adult than just a student.
PAGE has been an invaluable source of solace and camaraderie for Katlyn, offering emotional backing and a secure haven where she can be herself without fear of judgment. Unlike in school, where social status is typically determined by popularity, Katlyn found a space where she didn't have to mask her feelings and could show up in her genuine form, irrespective of how that manifested on any given day. The group's diverse age range fosters an environment where uniqueness is celebrated, rather than the pursuit of popularity.
Katlyn's triumphant return to PAGE as a High School Fellow was like a breath of fresh air. Not only did she help guide and inspire the next generation of students, but she also flexed her creative muscles, sharing the photography skills she acquired through PAGE. The Fellowship was an opportunity for Katlyn to learn applicable skills, plan for her future, and hone her passion for art.
Katlyn found new avenues of independence through the High School Fellowship Program. By exploring leadership opportunities and honing her technological abilities, she was equipped with a diverse range of versatile, real-world skills that will undoubtedly serve her in her educational and professional pursuits. Katlyn strives to pursue a career path in business finance and is motivated by the freedom to travel and explore new cultures.
“It felt good coming back as a fellow. Teaching the younger girls what I’d learned at PAGE was really special“ - Katlyn
These days, Katlyn is a motivated 17-year-old. In her personal time, she has become deeply invested in aquatic life; she is a devoted caretaker of three aquariums, two of which house freshwater fish and one saltwater, which she meticulously tests on a regular basis. Additionally, Katlyn has set her sights on nurturing her flower garden. Caretaking comes easily to Katlyn, as she compassionately seeks out new and expanding opportunities to nurture all forms of life around her.