Creativity Activity Sevice - CAS Blog

Milos Stojnic IB2

[milosstojnic]

CAS Project🥳

Title of project: Founding and leading the school's club of mathematics

Focus of project: Leading and organising weekly club meetings and preparing students for math competitions

Event date: September 2022 – April 2023

🫧Activity Description🫂

The Club of Mathematics is a student-led initiative aimed at creating a deeper understanding and appreciation of mathematical concepts among high school students. My project, spanning from September 2022 to April 2023, involved planning, coordinating, and executing a comprehensive mathematical curriculum designed to enhance students' proficiency in competitive mathematics.

Key components of the project included:

Curriculum Planning and Coordination:

I developed a structured curriculum that featured two weekly lectures, each lasting between two to three hours. These lectures covered advanced topics in combinatorics, geometry, algebra, and number theory, which are crucial for competitive mathematics.

Lecture Preparation and Delivery:

I personally prepared and delivered half of these lectures, ensuring that the content was both challenging and accessible to the 20 high school students enrolled in the club. Other lectures were prepared by other quite knowledgeable members of the club.

Grading of the tests and Feedback:

To assess the students' understanding and progress, I designed and administered two tests per month. These tests were meticulously graded, and detailed feedback was provided to help students identify areas for improvement.

🫧Learning Outcomes

Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

🫧Reflection

Doing this I observed that many students were eager to improve not just their math skills, but also expand their knowledge, and perform utterly better in competitions but lacked the necessary resources and regular guidance. Having participated in competitions myself, I deliberatly understood the challenges they faced. This motivated me joyfully to start a math club with a friend, aiming towards making the initial learning process easier and helping others achieve their goals.

Coming to our club sessions, held on Saturday mornings, the ambitious students were offered the opportunity to delve into not basic mathematical concepts they wouldn't typically encounter in other regular classes. We cultivated a relaxed atmosphere where zanily students felt comfortable expressing their thoughts and intriguing questions, creating a collaborative environment where they could enhance their math skills together.

Despite the demanding and time-consuming nature of this activity, both the students and I found it highly enjoyable and fulfilling. This experience taught me invaluable lessons in organization, time management, and effective communication. Presenting complex mathematical concepts in an understandable way was a significant challenge, but it was immensely rewarding to see the students' progress.

The skills I have developed through this project—leadership, organization, and the ability to convey knowledge effectively—are ones I hope to continue using and perfecting in the future. This project not only helped my peers but also enriched my own growth and development, making it a profoundly rewarding experience.

[milosstojnic]

Presenting my TOK Exhibition

Activity Title: Presenting my TOK Exhibition

Type of Activity: Creativity, Service

Duration: 1h

Activity description: I presented my TOK Exhibition

Learning Outcomes:

1.Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Reflection: Presenting my Theory of Knowledge (TOK) exhibition to a large audience of students was both nerve-wracking and rewarding. It marked the culmination of my TOK studies, providing an opportunity to showcase my understanding of the course's key concepts and their real-life applications.

I meticulously planned my presentation, ensuring that I covered all necessary aspects of the TOK curriculum. I focused on presenting clear and concise arguments, supported by evidence and examples. Multimedia elements such as videos and images were used to engage the audience and enhance their understanding.

Stepping onto the stage, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. I was eager to share my knowledge and insights, but also wanted to ensure that I did justice to the months of hard work and preparation. As I spoke, I could feel the energy in the room. The audience was engaged and attentive, asking thought-provoking questions and providing insightful feedback.

Overall, presenting my TOK exhibition was an enriching experience. It allowed me to showcase my understanding of the TOK curriculum and engage in meaningful discussions with my peers. It also taught me the importance of effective communication and presentation skills, which are valuable assets in both academic and professional settings.

[milosstojnic]

School Competitions in Mathematics, Programming and Physics (2024)

Activity Title: School Competitions in Mathematics, Programming and Physics (2024)

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 3 x 2h

Activity description: I participated in school competitions in mathematics, physics and programming

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Participating in school competitions can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, and my journey through mathematics, programming, and physics competitions was no exception.

In mathematics, I was able to secure the first place, but I was not entirely satisfied with my performance. This was due to my realization that I had "fake-solved" the problems, meaning I had arrived at incorrect solutions through flawed logic or errors in calculations. This experience taught me the importance of thoroughness and precision in mathematical problem-solving.

In physics, my performance was particularly gratifying. Despite the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum not covering the same material as the national program, I was able to achieve commendable results, that is the second place. My friend, who had participated in the European Physics Olympiad, was ahead of me, and I knew it would be challenging to surpass him. However, I was content with my performance, as I had given my best effort and learned valuable lessons along the way.

Programming, on the other hand, was where I faced the most difficulty. I struggled to focus on the problems and made a critical error in interpreting one of them. This led to a second-place finish, which was disappointing. However, I recognized that this setback was an opportunity for growth. I learned to pay closer attention to problem statements and to approach programming challenges with greater care and attention to detail.

Overall, my experience in school competitions taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, attention to detail, and the importance of continuous improvement. I am grateful for the opportunities these competitions provided me to test my skills and knowledge, and I look forward to applying these lessons in future endeavors.

[milosstojnic]

National Competition in Mathematics and Programming

Activity Title: National Competition in Mathematics and Programming

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 13.5h (3x4.5h)

Activity description: I participated in national competitions in mathematics and programming

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Participating in the mathematics national competition was a challenging yet rewarding experience that spanned two days. The first day went relatively well for me; I was able to figure out the task with several minutes remaining. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time to write down the solution, which resulted in a loss of 3 points. The second day was a bit more challenging. I relatively quickly solved one problem, but I found myself stuck for the rest of the competition. Despite this, I was proud of my performance and the effort I put into the competition.

Participating in the programming national competition was also an exciting experience. I earned my spot by solving a team selection test, in which I placed fourth. This was a great achievement for me, as it allowed me to compete at a national level and showcase my programming skills. The competition itself was challenging, but I was able to hold my own and secure a respectable placement.

Overall, participating in both the mathematics and programming national competitions was a valuable experience that taught me the importance of perseverance and dedication. I learned that success isn't always guaranteed, but with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

[milosstojnic]

Republican Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming

Activity Title: Republican Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 9h (3x3h)

Activity description: I participated in republican competitions in mathematics, physics and programming

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Participating in the mathematics republican competition was a challenging yet rewarding experience. I was faced with four problems, and while I was able to solve two of them quickly, the other two proved to be more difficult and required more time and effort. Unfortunately, I made a crucial mistake in geometry by failing to annotate two important points, which ultimately cost me valuable points. Despite this setback, I was able to secure third place, which was a testament to my problem-solving skills and perseverance.

The physics republican competition was a different story. Due to a long and arduous complaint process, I ended up finishing in fifth place. However, this setback allowed me to explore Trebinje and its many beautiful sites, which was a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing outcome.

The programming republican competition was a different story. I had been refining my coding skills in the weeks leading up to the competition. However, for some reason, I couldn't focus during the competition. I made some careless mistakes due to my lack of focus and ended up placing 10th.

Overall, participating in republican competitions was a valuable experience that taught me the importance of preparation and perseverance. I learned that success isn't always guaranteed, but with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

[milosstojnic]

Exploring Masici and Gradiska

Activity Title: Exploring Masici and Gradiska

Type of Activity: Creativity, Activity

Duration: several hours for several days

Activity description: I wandered around Masici and Gradiska

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

As I embarked on a journey to explore Masici and Gradiska, the places where my grandparents lived, I found myself immersed in a world rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. My adventure began in Masici.

I ventured into the nearby forest, where I stumbled upon a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who had fought and died in a past conflict. The memorial was a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and I took a moment to reflect on the significance of their bravery and courage.

As I continued my journey through Masici, I came across a pig that reminded me of the iconic cover of Pink Floyd's album "Animals." The pig was a playful and curious creature, and I couldn't resist taking a picture to capture the moment.

After exploring Masici, I made my way to Gradiska, where the heat of the day was intense. Everything seemed to shimmer in the sunlight, and the vast open land stretched out before me like a sea of golden waves. It was a surreal and spiritual experience, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of the landscape.

As I explored Gradiska, I couldn't help but think about the generations of people who had lived and worked on this land before me. It was a humbling experience, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to connect with my family's roots.

Overall, my journey through Masici and Gradiska was a memorable and enriching experience. I learned a great deal about my family's history and heritage, and I gained a newfound appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.

[milosstojnic]

Christmas Fair 2023

Activity Title: Christmas Fair 2023

Type of Activity: Creativity, Service

Duration: Half a day

Activity description: Our class sold things for charity during christmas

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

5. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

7. Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Reflection:

Participating in the Christmas fair was not only about selling products but also about communicating and cooperating with other people. As a vendor, I had to interact with customers, other vendors, and event organizers. This experience taught me valuable lessons in communication and cooperation.

Firstly, I had to effectively communicate with customers to understand their needs and preferences. I learned to ask open-ended questions and actively listen to their responses. This helped me tailor my sales pitch and recommend products that suited their tastes. I also had to explain the benefits of my products clearly and concisely, which improved my communication skills.

Secondly, cooperating with other vendors, that is other classmates, was essential for a successful fair. We shared resources, such as tables and chairs, and helped each other out when needed. This taught me the importance of teamwork and collaboration. By working together, we created a positive and supportive atmosphere that benefited everyone.

Lastly, I had to communicate with event organizers, that is our teachers, to ensure a smooth and successful fair. This involved following their guidelines, adhering to deadlines, and addressing any concerns or issues promptly. By maintaining open and transparent communication, I built a positive relationship with the organizers and contributed to the overall success of the event.

Overall, participating in the Christmas fair was a valuable experience that improved my communication and cooperation skills. I learned to effectively communicate with customers. These skills are not only useful in a business setting but also in everyday life.

[milosstojnic]

Christas Fair 2022

 Activity Title: Christmas CAS Fair 2022

Type of Activity: Creativity, Service

Duration: half a day

Activity description: we sold books, knitted things, jewerly, personal telegrams for a christmas fair where all of the collected money was donated to children psychiatry

Learning Outcomes:

1.Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

5. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

7. Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Reflection:

Participating in the Christmas fair was an incredibly rewarding experience. I had the opportunity to sell a variety of items, including books, knitted things, jewelry, and personal telegrams, with all proceeds going towards children's psychiatry.

The atmosphere at the fair was festive and filled with holiday cheer. People from all walks of life came together to support a great cause. I was particularly touched by the generosity of the community, as many individuals purchased items not only for themselves but also as gifts for loved ones.

Selling books was a highlight for me, as I am passionate about literature. I had a selection of books ranging from children's stories to classic novels, and it was heartwarming to see children and adults alike excitedly browsing through the titles. I also sold hand-knitted scarves, hats, and gloves, which were a big hit on the cold winter day.

The jewelry I had on display was handmade and unique, and many people were drawn to the intricate designs. The personal telegrams I offered were a special touch, allowing customers to send heartfelt messages to their friends and family members.

Overall, the Christmas fair was a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community and support a cause that is close to my heart. It was a reminder of the power of coming together and making a difference in the lives of others.

[milosstojnic]

Regional Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming (2023)

Activity Title: Regional Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 6h (3x2h)

Activity description: I participated in regional competitions in mathematics, physics and programming

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Participating in regional competitions was an exhilarating experience that tested my skills and perseverance across different disciplines: mathematics, physics, and programming.

In the mathematics regional competition, I was determined to excel. After celebrating my 18th birthday, I was ready to tackle the competition. During the competition, I remained focused and attentive, swiftly solving each task presented to me. My hard work paid off, and I was elated to be awarded first place. I even had time left to double-check my work, ensuring that no errors slipped through.

The physics regional competition was a different story. Due to prior commitments, I wasn't able to prepare as thoroughly as I would have liked. Despite this, I decided to participate, hoping my natural aptitude for the subject would carry me through. However, I quickly realized I was out of my depth. I struggled with some of the questions and made several mistakes. In the end, I was disappointed to finish in second place, just shy of first.

The programming regional competition was a mixed bag. I had been refining my coding skills in the weeks leading up to the competition. However, I was frustrated to find that the problems presented were simplistic and didn't challenge me as much as I had hoped. I made some careless mistakes due to my frustration and ended up placing third.

Overall, participating in regional competitions was a valuable experience that taught me the importance of preparation and perseverance. I learned that success isn't always guaranteed, but with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

[milosstojnic]

School Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming (2023)

Activity Title: School Competition in Mathematics, Physics and Programming

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 6h (3x2h)

Activity description: I participated in school competitions in mathematics, physics and programming

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Participating in school competitions was an enriching experience that challenged my problem-solving abilities and taught me valuable lessons in perseverance and preparation.

In the mathematics competition, I was determined to perform at my best. I spent weeks practicing and reviewing concepts, ensuring that I was well-prepared for any question that might come my way. During the competition, I was focused and attentive, double-checking my work to ensure that I didn't make any mistakes. My hard work paid off, and I was thrilled to be awarded first place.

The physics competition was a different story. Due to time constraints and other commitments, I wasn't able to prepare as thoroughly as I would have liked. I decided to participate anyway, hoping that my natural aptitude for the subject would carry me through. However, I quickly realized that I was out of my depth. I struggled to answer some of the questions and made several mistakes. In the end, I was disappointed to finish in sixth place.

The programming competition was a different story. Programming is a subject that I am familiar with and enjoy, so I was excited to participate. I spent hours practicing and refining my coding skills in the weeks leading up to the competition. During the competition, I was confident and focused, quickly solving each task that was presented to me. My hard work and dedication paid off, and I was thrilled to be awarded first place.

Overall, participating in school competitions was a valuable experience that taught me the importance of preparation and perseverance. I learned that success isn't always guaranteed, but with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

[milosstojnic]

Activity Title: BaLMUN

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: Several meetings on saturday

Activity description: I actively participated in BaLMUN meetings, where we simulated UN activity

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

5. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Reflection:

Participating in Balmun, an extracurricular activity focused on Model United Nations (MUN), was an enriching and transformative experience. As an active participant, I had the opportunity to engage in debates, draft resolutions, and work collaboratively with peers from diverse backgrounds.

Balmun provided a platform for me to develop critical thinking, public speaking, and negotiation skills. I learned how to research complex global issues, articulate my ideas effectively, and advocate for solutions that address the needs of different countries. The experience also taught me the importance of diplomacy, compromise, and consensus-building in international relations.

One of the most memorable aspects of my participation in Balmun was the opportunity to represent a country in various committees. I had the chance to step into the shoes of diplomats and policymakers, gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of global politics and the challenges faced by different nations.

The friendships I formed during Balmun were also invaluable. Working closely with my peers to tackle complex issues fostered a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. We supported each other, shared ideas, and celebrated our achievements together.

Overall, my experience in Balmun was a transformative journey that not only enhanced my understanding of global affairs but also equipped me with valuable skills and perspectives that I continue to apply in my personal and professional life.

[milosstojnic]

Financial Literacy Fair

Activity Title: Financial Literacy Seminare

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 2h

Activity description: We (my class) listened to a financial literacy seminare, where we learned a lot about both personal and global economics

Learning Outcomes:

1.Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Reflection:

Attending the financial literacy fair was an enlightening experience that broadened my understanding of personal finance. The fair, organized by a local community organization, aimed to educate individuals about various aspects of financial management.

I was immediately drawn to a presentation on budgeting and saving, which emphasized the importance of creating a budget and setting financial goals. The presenter provided practical tips on how to track expenses, prioritize spending, and save for emergencies and future goals. This session was particularly valuable as it helped me realize the significance of being intentional with my finances and taking control of my financial future.

I also attended a workshop on credit management, where I learned about the factors that influence my credit score and how to maintain a healthy credit profile. The presenter discussed the importance of paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, and avoiding unnecessary debt. This session was eye-opening as it highlighted the long-term implications of poor credit management and the benefits of building a strong credit history.

Overall, the financial literacy fair was an enriching experience that equipped me with practical knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions. It inspired me to take a proactive approach to managing my finances and to seek out additional resources and support to achieve my financial goals.

[milosstojnic]

Visiting Kafka's Museum

Activity Title: Visiting's Kafka's Museum

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 2h

Activity description: Prior to the school trip, I googled about things that I could do while in Prague. One of the things that popped up as cultural sites of Prague was Kafka's Musem. Being a fan of his work, I decided to go the museum.

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Reflection:

During a school trip to Prague, I made a point to visit Kafka's museum, being a fan of his works. Accompanied by a fellow Kafka enthusiast, we delved into the exhibit, eager to learn more about the renowned writer's life.

The museum, located in the heart of Prague, offered a comprehensive look into Kafka's world. The display featured personal items, manuscripts, and first editions of his works. Seeing the desk where Kafka wrote added a real connection to the man behind the words.

One noteworthy part of the museum was dedicated to Kafka's letters, including those to Milena and his impactful letter to his father. Reading these letters in Kafka's own handwriting gave a personal insight into his relationships and the emotions that fueled his writing.

The exhibit didn't just focus on Kafka's literary achievements but also provided a glimpse into his life, challenges, and the societal context of his time. Walking through the museum felt like navigating the pathways of Kafka's mind, gaining insights into the complexity of his thoughts and the essence of his stories.

Looking back, the visit to Kafka's museum wasn't just about literature; it was an insightful encounter with the person behind the famous writings. It deepened my admiration for Kafka's contributions to literature and left me with a better understanding of the man who crafted such enduring and mysterious stories.

[milosstojnic]

Visiting and Exploring Prague

Activity Title: Visiting and Exploring Prague

Type of Activity: Creativity, Activity

Duration: One whole day

Activity description: During the school trip, one of the stops was Prague. During the free time, we decided to explore the city

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

5. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

6. Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

Reflection:

Visiting Prague on a school trip was a memorable experience, and wandering around the old town left a lasting impression. The architecture in Prague was something that truly satisfied me. The buildings, each with its own unique charm, seemed to tell stories of a bygone era.

Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, I couldn't help but appreciate the timeless beauty of the city's architecture. The intricate details on the facades, the colorful buildings lining the streets, and the overall historical ambiance created a picturesque scene.

The landmarks, like the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, were not just tourist spots but living pieces of history. The centuries-old structures held a certain allure, and it was fascinating to imagine the events that had unfolded within those walls.

The atmosphere in Prague felt different from any other place I had visited. There was a sense of authenticity, a connection to the past that made the whole experience more meaningful. The bustling markets and cozy cafes added a lively touch to the city, making it feel like a place where history seamlessly merged with modern life.

Reflecting on the trip, I realized that Prague, with its architecture and rich history, offered more than just a tourist experience. It provided a glimpse into a world that felt both distant and familiar. The satisfaction I felt wasn't just from seeing beautiful buildings; it was from immersing myself in a city that seemed to breathe history at every turn.

[milosstojnic]

Painting my Apartment

Activity Title: Painting my Apartment

Type of Activity: Activity, Service

Duration: 8h, one day

Activity description: One of the preparation for the summer resteruation and cleaning of the flat was to paint all of the walls in 3 bedrooms. This task was something that I took as my obligation.

Learning Outcomes:

Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

5. Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

Reflection:

Taking on the job of painting my apartment during the summer cleanup was a practical but rewarding task. With the place cleared out, my mission was to give the walls a fresh look.

To avoid any mess, I took precautions like covering the floors with old sheets and taping the edges of the walls. The paint smell was strong, but it meant a change was happening.

Dipping the brush into the paint and carefully going over the walls felt like a straightforward but effective way to give the rooms a facelift. As the colors changed, the apartment started feeling cleaner and brighter.

Fixing the occasional drip or spot outside the taped edges was part of the process, but the satisfaction of seeing the walls looking clean and new made it worthwhile. Completing the painting was the last step in getting the apartment back in shape for the summer.

Stepping back, I felt a sense of achievement. The freshly painted walls gave the apartment a refreshed look, making it more comfortable and inviting. It was a practical task, but the result made the effort worth it in the end.

[milosstojnic]

My First Time Baking

Activity Title: My First Time Baking

Type of Activity: Creativity

Duration: 1h, one time activity

Activity description: I tried out baking :D

Learning Outcomes:

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Trying my hand at baking for the first time, I decided to make gluten-free bread. The kitchen turned into my baking zone as I gathered basic ingredients like gluten-free flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt.

Following a simple recipe, I mixed the gluten-free flour with water, yeast, and salt. Kneading the dough was a bit messy but oddly satisfying. Feeling the unique texture of the gluten-free dough in my hands brought a sense of accomplishment.

As the gluten-free dough rose, the kitchen filled with the warm aroma of yeast. Watching the gluten-free dough change from a sticky mass to a puffy mound was surprisingly rewarding.

Baking the gluten-free bread added excitement. The enticing aroma of the bread browning in the oven created eager anticipation. Waiting for a homemade, gluten-free loaf to emerge heightened the experience.

When the timer buzzed, revealing a golden-brown, gluten-free bread, I felt accomplished. Slicing into the freshly baked bread and spreading a bit of butter showcased the success of the gluten-free baking experiment, exceeding my expectations.

In the end, my first baking experience with gluten-free flour wasn't just about making bread; it was a journey of discovery and a satisfying introduction to creating something delicious without gluten. The kitchen mess and the tasty outcome made it an experience worth trying again.

[milosstojnic]

Visiting and Exploring Sarajevo

Activity Title: Visiting and Exploring Sarajevo

Type of Activity: Creativity, Activity

Duration: 5 Days

Activity description: During the fall break, I stayed in Sarajevo. During the stay I explored Sarajevo in detail, went Hiking on Trebevic and just enyojed culture

Learning Outcomes:

1.Identity your own strengths and develop areas for personal growth

2. Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process

3. Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

4. Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

Reflection:

Exploring Sarajevo is always a good time, even though it's not my first visit. The city has this unique vibe that I enjoy. One of the highlights for me is definitely the local food, especially the cevapi. It's a simple pleasure but so delicious – grilled minced meat with flatbread and onions.

During this trip, I also went hiking on Trebevic Mountain with two friends. The views from up there were pretty amazing and the hike itself was a good way to spend the day.

Walking around Sarajevo, you can see the mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences in the architecture. The bazaars and old streets give the place a lot of character. Despite its history, the city feels lively and resilient.

In the evening, we found a local café to relax, sipping Bosnian coffee and chatting about the day. Sarajevo's a city that I always enjoy coming back to – it's got this welcoming atmosphere and enough history to make every visit interesting.