For my scholars spring semester project, I would like to take on an ambitious task combining design, personal interest, construction, and exploring a new skill. I would like to learn to how build my own skateboard, and then I would like to be able to complete at least one trick on the self constructed skateboard. I will begin this project by learning about the production, design, and manufacturing of skateboards. Over winter break, I will begin to construct the main body of the board with my resources I have to power tools at my hometown. Once I have completed the main body of the board, I would like to explore the skate scene of Columbus, visiting different shops for grip tape, trucks, wheels, bearings, etc. I have also found an interest in skateboard art; along with the production of actual skateboard bodies, I would like to do an exploration on the artistic style of skateboards. Once I have visited the local skate shops and completed the construction of my board, my next task will be to learn a trick on the board. I know how to do the baseline “ollie”, however I would like to learn how to do a pop-shuvit and a kickflip. I hope to have construction of the board completed by spring break at the latest, so when the snow finally melts, I can take the board out and begin to learn new tricks. I think this project will push my design and construction abilities as well as combines personal interests and career interests all in one.

[ “G.O.A.L.S.” is a place where students write about how their planned, current, and future activities may fit into the Honors & Scholars G.O.A.L.S.: Global Awareness, Original Inquiry, Academic Enrichment, Leadership Development, and Service Engagement. For more guidance on using your ePortfolio, including questions and prompts that will help you get started, please visit the Honors & Scholars ePortfolio course in Carmen. To get answers to specific questions, please email eportfolio@osu.edu. Delete these instructions and add your own post.

• Global Awareness: Students cultivate and develop their appreciation for diversity and each individual’s unique differences. For example, consider course work, study abroad, involvement in cultural organizations or activities, etc.
• Original Inquiry: Honors & Scholars students understand the research process by engaging in experiences ranging from in-class scholarly endeavors to creative inquiry projects to independent experiences with top researchers across campus and in the global community. For example, consider research, creative productions or performances, advanced course work, etc.
• Academic Enrichment: Honors & Scholars students pursue academic excellence through rigorous curricular experiences beyond the university norm both in and out of the classroom.
• Leadership Development: Honors & Scholars students develop leadership skills that can be demonstrated in the classroom, in the community, in their co-curricular activities, and in their future roles in society.
• Service Engagement: Honors & Scholars students commit to service to the community.]