“The National History Day program gives students advanced academic and social skills that build a unique kind of confidence. When my daughter and her friend first decided to take on the challenge of designing a website research project I had my concerns about their success. It seemed like a large task for two junior high students with no serious research or web design experience. How wrong I was. This endeavor would instead result in both their individual, professional, and academic growth. Choosing a topic connected to one of their family members, they dove into the research, learning networking skills and gaining confidence in reaching out to museums, archives and historical societies for information and interviews. Initially nervous about contacting experts, both girls developed the ability to professionally present their ideas and confidently interview professionals and high-level individuals. As a parent it was exciting to watch them personally grow and hear the historical discussion around our house. NHD stretched their learning beyond the classroom to learn not just about history and research, but new skills in digital web design and professional writing, speaking, and presenting. Any student would benefit from this program.”