[ot-caption title=”Brett Weiss presenting Generation Selfie: the new nicoTeen at Pine Crest’s Tedx Talk on February 27th. (via Andrew Kirschner)” url=”https://pcpawprint.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Tedx-Talk.jpg”]

On February 27, Mr. Gillego, his English students, and the National English Honors Society organized Pine Crest’s first ever TEDx Talk with the theme of inquiring minds. TEDx Talks, independently run TED Events, were created by the TED organization to help achieve the goal: “How can we best spread great ideas?”

The event, held in the ICI auditorium, included student and guest presentations on four topics: thoughts on the mind, thoughts on language, thoughts on the self, and thoughts on society. Presenters covered ideas ranging from the struggles of teenagers in everyday life to taking risks and living out of the box. Students Sabrina Simich and Chris Matthews discussed the topics of self-identification, self-segregation, modern day race relations, and acceptance. They articulated the relevance of focus, on one’s inner thoughts as well as the thoughts of others, in order to eliminate racial tension.

Type One had the chance to catch up with Student Council President, Brittany Paris, who moderated portions of the Tedx talk. Brittany commented on the TEDx talk, “The experience was incredible. It was a great opportunity to listen to other people’s thoughts and share my own. The guest speakers were phenomenal!”

After students had the opportunity to speak to their peers about a specified topic, the session culminated with guest speakers who are experts in their respective fields. Danna Pycher, Alan Fox, Liam Murphy, and Dr. Nefeli Misuraca talked about vital topics including change and the subconscious mind. Alan Fox, a writer and actor from Hunter College spoke of the future of communication and perceptions of the internet. Fox warned the audience to always be careful of the information they choose to share online.

The overall reception of the TEDx Talk was very positive, and students, faculty, and staff feel that this event should be an annual Pine Crest tradition. Mr. Geillego noted that “The event exceeded my expectations. The students really stepped up and came through and delivered memorable speeches. The hard work they put in was evident, and I could not have been more proud of their accomplishment.” A special congratulations to Mr. Gillego, his English students, and the NEHS on the Tedx Talk’s success!