Over 500,000 students in grades 6-12 across America participate in National History Day, an annual competition where students choose a historical topic to research. It is the organization’s philosophy to be run by the work of students.

The purpose of this nationwide program is to excite children about learning, especially learning about history. It gives them a chance to get an in-depth look at a specific part of world history of their choosing.

Students research their topic by visiting museums and libraries, talking to experts, and scouring the Internet for articles. They then create a website, an exhibit, write a paper, film a documentary or give a performance. Judges choose the top three in each category at one of five regionals across the country. Regional winners go to states, and state winners go to nationals, this year held in Maryland.

“Even though it was a lot of work, it was a fun experience that I’ll never get to re-create,” said Maya Faber.

Another reason why NHD is an amazing is because of the skills the participants learn. They learn to have empathy for those who have suffered in the past, along with extremely useful writing and critical thinking skills.

Samira Saad, 8th grader in the club, won Regionals a month ago. “I truly learned a lot. Apart from learning about my topic, I got to work on my presentation skills, researching techniques, and how competitions work. For her project her topic was Mohammed Bouazizi, the man who started the Tunisian revolution and Arab Spring.

Sarah Corneck, another eighth grader at Bedford created an exhibit about Culper Spies with Hannah Even. “National History Day was a lot of fun. I loved researching and presenting in front of the judges. It was a little stressful, but there were two adorable therapy dogs to help with that. All in all it was a lot of fun and I look forward to doing it again in high school,” said Sarah.

The leader of the club, Mrs. Davis, is passionate about National History Day and devotes many of her lunch and planning periods and weekends to make NHD the experience it is for the club members.

It is her third year being a part of the competition.

“I think it is wonderful program because the possibilities are endless. It’s incredible to see the dedication of students,” said Mrs. Davis.

One word she used to describe National History Day is “voluntary.” Students take months to work on these projects. It is a huge part of these kids’ lives, because not only do they get to learn a lot from the research and studying that goes into their presentation but they also have the opportunity to give other students and parents and in-depth look at their topic of choice.