Meet the camper: Megan Jeffries

By Katie Crandall/Advanced Writing

At journalism camp, she is the girl with the camera. The girl who is dutifully taking pictures for her photojournalism track. The girl who will be the editor-in-chief of the Oak Park High School yearbook.

This is indicative of Kansas City, Mo., senior Megan Jeffries’ dedication to journalism, but her true passion lies elsewhere.

Jeffries will begin her final year at Oak Park this fall, and in addition to journalism, she will continue her involvement in Peer Helpers, a selective student organization that focuses on encouraging other students in need.

“It’s a very small club, but I really think it makes a difference in the lives of the students we reach out to,” Jeffries said.

Another activity in which Jeffries participates bears no ties to her school community. Youth With Vision, a substance abuse prevention organization, brings high school-aged students from across the Kansas City area together in an effort to battle substance abuse amongst peers and lend a hand to those affected by it.

Being a journalist, surprisingly enough, has also aided Jeffries in her work with those in need. She says that journalism has taught her countless valuable skills for talking and relating to others.

“Naturally, I’m a shy person and being thrown into awkward situations through interviewing has made me come out of my shell quite a bit,” Jeffries said.

Jeffries’ work to seek out and offer guidance to the needy in both her school and local community is her true passion and has influenced her career path decision. She plans to major in occupational therapy in college -- a field in which she has already gained some knowledge through observations and experience.

“I got interested in it because my mom is an occupational therapist, so I get to see it in action,” Jeffries said.

She has volunteered at her mother’s workplace and speaks fondly of these experiences.

“I really like working with kids with special needs because it’s really rewarding, and I like knowing that I can make a difference,” she said.