adr1jana

[adr1jana]

VOLUNTEERING AT A PUBLIC KITCHEN

Activity title: Volunteering at Mozaik prijateljstva

Type of activity: service, activity

Duration: 4 hours

Learning outcomes:

Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance

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When we finally arrived at “Mozaik prijateljstva,” we were greeted with open arms by a group of kind-hearted women whose warmth instantly made us feel at home. Their gentle smiles and patient explanations of our tasks set the tone for the day ahead.

We found ourselves surrounded by countless bags overflowing with potatoes and cabbage—ingredients that would become part of something meaningful. As we washed and chopped together, the atmosphere was filled with quiet camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose.

The women, mostly older and full of life, treated us like family; they offered us homemade cookies and kept checking in to make sure we had enough to eat and drink. Their small acts of kindness made the hard work feel lighter and the experience unforgettable. It wasn’t just about preparing food—it was about connecting, giving, and learning from each other in a way that touched our hearts deeply.

Reflection:

Experience at “Mozaik prijateljstva” reminded me how powerful simple acts of service can be.

It wasn’t just about washing and chopping vegetables—it was about connecting with people, sharing kindness, and feeling part of something bigger than myself.

[adr1jana]

BASS GUITAR PRACTICE

Activity title: Groove, Rhythm, and Rocking the Low End

Type of activity: creativity, activity

Duration: once a week

Learning outcomes:

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

Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

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Activity description:

As part of my CAS experience, I’ve been teaching myself how to play the bass guitar at home. I usually practice 30–60 minutes per session, focusing on technique, rhythm, and learning simple songs. I’ve been using online resources like video tutorials and tabs to guide my learning, starting with basic finger exercises and gradually moving on to more challenging pieces.

At first, it was difficult to get used to the coordination between both hands and keeping a steady rhythm, but with consistent practice, I’ve improved a lot. I’ve learned to play a few recognizable bass lines and can now keep up with backing tracks more confidently.

Reflection:

Learning bass guitar has been both rewarding and challenging. It’s helped me improve my patience, discipline, and creativity.

There were moments where I felt stuck, but I learned to push through and focus on small improvements.

Playing music has also become a fun and calming part of my routine. I’m proud of my progress and excited to keep learning.

[adr1jana]

CROSS, UPPERCUT, JAB

Activity title: Kickboxing classes

Activity type: activity

Duration: 3 times a week

Learning outcomes:

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

Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

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Activity description:

To stay active and improve my fitness, I started attending kickboxing classes three times a week with my friend. Each session combines cardio, strength, and technique drills, pushing me both physically and mentally. Training with a friend made it more fun and motivating, and helped me stay consistent.

Reflection:

Kickboxing challenged my endurance and coordination, but over time I’ve seen real progress. I’ve become more disciplined and confident.

Working out with a friend also strengthened our bond and made me appreciate the value of teamwork and commitment. I’m proud of the perseverance I’ve shown and how this activity has improved both my physical and mental well-being.

[adr1jana]

VISITING PECKA

Activity title: CAS camp in the Pecka Visitor Centre

Type of activity: creativity, activity, service

Duration: 3 days

Learning outcomes:

Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

Show commitment to, and perseverance in, CAS experiences

Activity description:

On Friday morning, our class met in front of the school to head to our CAS camp at the Visitor Center Pecka. The setting was peaceful and surrounded by nature — a great place to spend a few days together outside the classroom.

Our first activity was a psychology workshop focused on happiness. It got us thinking about what really brings us joy in life. Most people mentioned either their families or classmates, showing how important those connections are. We also helped our host prepare lunch and shared the meal as a group. Later that evening, we relaxed with some music, played a few games, sang karaoke, and ended the day with a movie.

Saturday was dedicated to a long hike, around 16 kilometers through the forest and hills. Even though it rained for a while, it didn’t bother us — we came prepared and made the best of it. We visited the beautiful springs of the Sana River and enjoyed the fresh air and quiet. That night, we hung out, talked, listened to music, and watched an NBA game.

On Sunday morning, we packed up and returned home — tired, but glad to have shared the experience.

Reflection:

The CAS camp at Pecka was a great chance to disconnect from routine and connect with classmates in a relaxed, natural setting.

Despite the rain, we enjoyed every moment — from meaningful conversations to shared activities that brought us closer together. It was a simple but valuable experience.

[adr1jana]

BUDAPEST WINTER TRIP

Activity title: Exploring Budapest

Type of activity: activity, creativity

Duration: one day

Learning outcomes:

-Identifying my own strengths and areas to growth -Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

This winter, I visited Budapest with my friends for a day, and we made the most of our time there. We explored almost the entire city, walking through its historic streets, admiring the grand architecture, and stopping by famous landmarks like the Parliament and Buda Castle.

The atmosphere was lively despite the cold, and we even tried some traditional Hungarian food along the way. It was a short but unforgettable trip filled with adventure and beautiful sights.

Reflection: Visiting Budapest in winter was an incredible experience, even though it was just for a day. Exploring the city with my friends made it even more exciting, as we got to see stunning landmarks while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

The mix of history, architecture, and local food gave me a deeper appreciation for the city’s culture. Though the trip was short, it left me with lasting memories and a desire to return and explore even more.

[adr1jana]

LAB EXPERIMENT

Activity title: Lab experiment

Type of activity: activity

Duration: two hours

Learning outcomes:

-Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth -Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process -Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

On friday, our group visited PMF to learn about the process of gel electrophoresis. We observed how this technique is used to separate DNA, RNA, or proteins based on their size and charge. The demonstration included extracting DNA from a flower, preparing the gel, loading the samples, applying an electric current, and analyzing the results. We also gained insight into its applications in genetic research, forensics, and medical diagnostics. It was a great opportunity to see the process firsthand and understand its significance in scientific studies.

Reflection: We can reflect on this activity by considering what we learned, how it expanded our understanding of science, and how it might influence our future interests.

[adr1jana]

BANJ BRDO HIKING

Activity title: Hiking on Banj brdo with a friend

Type of activity: activity

Duration: two hours

Learning outcomes:

-Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience -Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

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I went hiking with friend, exploring a beautiful trail surrounded by nature. Along the way, we took breaks to admire the views, chat, and take pictures. It was a great way to disconnect, get some exercise, and experience the peace and beauty of nature.

By getting involved in hiking, I hope to learn more about the outdoors, improve my physical fitness, and develop better stamina and endurance. I want to understand how to navigate different terrains, stay safe while exploring nature, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

Reflection: I can reflect on this activity by thinking about how I felt during the hike—whether I found certain parts challenging or enjoyable. I could consider how my physical endurance held up, especially if there were any moments where I pushed myself or felt proud of my progress.

Reflecting on the views, moments of quiet, or connections I made with nature and others during the hike

[adr1jana]

MUFFIN MASTERY

Activity title: Baking muffins for my best friend's birthday

Type of activity: activity, service

Duration: 2 hours

Learning outcomes:

-Identifying own strengths and developing areas for growth -Showing commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences -Undertake new challenges to develop skills

I decided to bake muffins for my friend, and it was my first time doing something like this completely on my own. From measuring ingredients to mixing the batter and waiting for them to bake, I figured everything out myself. It felt a bit challenging, but also exciting. When they were finally done, I was nervous about how they’d turn out. But when my friend took the first bite and smiled, saying they tasted amazing, it made all the effort worth it. Seeing her enjoy something I made from a scratch was the best feeling.

Reflection: In the future, I’ll reflect on this activity as a small but meaningful achievement—proof that I can step out of my comfort zone and succeed on my own. It showed me that I’m capable of learning new skills without relying on others, which gives me confidence to try more things independently.

I’ll also remember the joy of sharing something homemade with a friend and how rewarding it felt to see them enjoy it. This experience might even inspire me to bake more often and experiment with new recipes.

[adr1jana]

PAINTING CLASSES

Activity title: Working my first oil painting

Type of activity: creativity, activity

Duration: two hours a week

Learning outcomes:

-Identifying own strengths and developing areas for growth -Demonstrating that challenges

Recently I started making my first oil painting during my art classes. At first it was challenging and I had to restart a few times, but it started to become an exciting journey. This process is slow but rewarding and I hope to finish it by the end of the February.

Reflection: Reflecting on my first oil painting experience, I realize how much I’ve learned in a short time.

The process was both challenging and rewarding. I was initially overwhelmed by the unfamiliarity of oil paints and its slower pace, but as I mixed the colors and applied the layers, I started to understand the beauty of working with oil. 

[adr1jana]

TRIP TO OPATIJA

Activity title: Visiting Opatija and their Chocolate Festival

Type of activity: activity

Duration: one day

Learning outcomes:

-Identifying my own strengths and areas to growth -Demonstrating how to initiate and plan a CAS activity

On 9th November 2024, I visited beautiful city of Opatija during their Chocolate Festival. I had the chance to explore its charming coastal scenery and historic architecture. The highlight of my visit was Opatija Chocolate Festival. The festival had every chocolate flavor you could imagine with live demonstrations of variety of handcrafted chocolates.

Reflection: Reflecting on my trip to Opatija, I realized how much it offered unique experiences and how much I enjoy traveling.

The Chocolate Festival was truly a highlight of the trip. It wasn't just about indulging in sweet treats, but also about discovering the art of chocolate-making and connecting with the craft.