Read Varsha’s Experience at John Deere Academy

This summer, I had the opportunity to attend the John Deere Drive Your Future Academy in Atlanta, Georgia. Through hearing the stories of inspiring women such as Marty Evans (background entails being a part of the US Navy and CEO of the Girl Scouts), participants were able to learn the importance of balancing strengths and weaknesses when working on a team, staying true to your values, and being resilient in tough situations. A wide array of women speakers enforced the necessity for girls to be leaders in their community, and to build long lasting professional relationships. Sydnee Mack, an attorney at law, was able to explain the benefits of networking and teach us the basics of building a pitch to effectively introduce ourselves using ALR (Ask-Listen-Respond). Aside from the many speakers I had the privilege to hear, I truly learned the impact of community service and volunteerism when I got to go to an elderly center and run a First Tee lesson with the members of the center. Not only was I able to spend time giving back to the Atlanta community, I was able to get valuable life advice from the strong individuals at the elderly center. From golfing at East Lake Golf Club to learning about the college admission process from Georgia State University, I gained indispensable advice relating to golf, life, and leadership, along with memories and friendships I can carry with me in my future endeavors. This academy was the perfect avenue for me to develop my leadership, collaboration, teamwork, and golf skills, and I am so grateful to have met other young women who are driven to make a difference in their communities just like me! I am so thankful to The First Tee for making these opportunities available for participants! – Varsha N., Ace Participant