YDB Graduates, Mentors and Volunteers gather and celebrate together after Graduation!

Students and Mentors present their experiences:

“I am frankly blown away by this summer’s group of students, mentors and volunteers. It could not have been more diverse and eclectic from every angle…this amazing combination of people, ideas and knowledge fed an incredibly rich experience for anyone who touched Youth Design ’09.”
- Denise Korn, Youth Design Founder

“This has been a wonderful and successful summer! I have truly enjoyed every minute of the program and working with these fantastic, smart and creative students as well as with the fabulous, talented and dedicated mentors.”
- Tara Oremus, Youth Design Director of Operations

“Attending the Professional Development events turned out to be the highlight of my summer! The presentations were wonderful especially in terms of giving the students insight into the design process of various individuals–what inspires them, how do they think, what really excites them about the process of doing design work, and what really challenges them. When the students look at a magazine, product, an article of clothing, a poster—they will understand some of what went into it and how much the designer’s passion and individuality contribute to making the design powerful. If this excites them, they now know they can pursue this as a viable career. It was clear that all the presenters love what they do in design, and their very genuine interest in sharing their passion and knowledge with the students energized the atmosphere. It is really fun just being with the students and their quick and curious minds, hearing their thoughts and ideas, what kinds of questions they ask, what surprises them, etc.”
- Alisa Aronson, Youth Design Boston Madison Park High School Liaison

“I have been completely impressed with the maturity, enthusiasm, talent and dedication of the students involved in this year’s program. If I could sum up these kids in 2 words they would be ‘impressive’ and ‘amazing’.”
- Maegen Rzasa, Youth Design Boston Student Coordinator

“…A consistent theme I’ve experienced over the course of the last three years has been around the surprise over the drive and energy these students bring to the table. I am quite certain that for some of us, high school was less than preparatory for real life. Therefore, look at what you have given these bright minds and creative talent, at this impressionable and important stage in their lives.

All of our mentors enrich this program in many ways. You make it bright and help it grow from one year to the next. You provide a valuable, honest, creative environment for each student. There is no doubt in my mind that each young person will walk away from this experience with something positive that you have instilled in them. And, there is no doubt that they will continue to draw from this experience, that you have generously provided, for years to come.”
- Emily Parent, Youth Design Boston Mentor Coordinator