Explore passion projects

Overview

A passion project is something you create or pursue on your own initiative. Freshman year is a great time to start exploring!

What Is a Passion Project?

Something you do because YOU want to, not because it's assigned. Examples:

• Writing a blog or book
• Creating art or music
• Building an app or website
• Starting a small business
• Organizing community initiatives
• Conducting independent research

Finding Your Passion

Ask Yourself

• What would I do even if no one knew about it?
• What problems do I wish I could solve?
• What do I spend free time learning about?
• What makes me lose track of time?

Brainstorming Ideas

• What skills do you have or want to develop?
• What needs do you see in your community?
• What topics fascinate you?
• What could you create that doesn't exist?

Starting Small

First Steps

1. Identify something you're genuinely curious about
2. Set a small, achievable goal
3. Schedule regular time to work on it
4. Share with someone who'll encourage you
5. Build from there

Examples of Small Starts

• Write one blog post, not a whole blog
• Create one piece of art
• Code a simple program
• Volunteer for one cause regularly

Timeline

• Freshman year: Explore and experiment
• Sophomore year: Focus and develop
• Junior year: Create tangible outcomes
• Senior year: Showcase results

Documentation

Keep track of:

• What you're working on
• Progress and milestones
• Any recognition or impact
• Skills you're developing

Encouraging Thought

The best projects come from genuine curiosity, not strategic planning!