The Virtual Venture to NHD: II

The regional competition for West Tennessee’s National History Day competition is fast approaching - February 26th, to be exact - as participants scramble to make last-minute edits to their projects. While the competition was supposed to be held in person, due to the surge in COVID-19 cases in Memphis and nearby cities, the competition will now be virtual. Although many people were not expecting the shift to virtual for the competition, many competitors agree that this change can be seen in a positive light. After a year and a half of school online, students have grown accustomed to the virtual experience. In fact, many students’ first experience with the competition was the virtual venture.

When asked about his memories during the making of his NHD project, Abdul-Rahman Abutineh, a current seventh grader, says, “It was an experience to be sure. Even though it was my first time, I had a relatively easy time making my project because of the ease that came with putting it together, a few of my upperclassmen helping me out in the process. The other thing that became easier with the shift was submitting the project itself. It was just a few buttons away.” Veterans of the competition have mixed reactions to the switch to virtual but still remain eager to participate. Aisha Duldul, a sophomore, says, “[The switch] was a surprise for sure. While I do prefer the in-person competition, I still do hope I do well [virtually]. Even if the competition is virtual, I know it will still be an experience to look forward to.”

While students still do have some preparation to do, it’s time to get our game faces on. The competition is very soon. While some students prefer on-site competition, they are actively preparing for the virtual competition and are devoting their time and energy to their projects. Regardless of what happens in future competitions, it’s safe to say that everyone is excited about the competition.

Good luck, competitors!