On Saturday, March 14, Poly students participated in the annual History Day competition at Azusa Pacific University. This year’s theme was “Leadership and Legacy in History”. History Day is an annual event where hundreds of students from high schools all over Los Angeles County are able to demonstrate interest and research in specific periods of time in history. By studying a person, place or event and presenting their ideas in a variety of creative means, students are able to share their knowledge in a friendly, yet competitive environment. This year, Mara Koval and Asa Mazor-Freedman were successful in the process of judging and will advance to state. They will once again present their documentary, with the chance to make additional minor edits prior to the competition. As partners in the competition, Koval and Mazor-Freedman represented Poly with a documentary, titled “God Incarnate”. The video was intended to highlight the contributions of former Ethiopian President Haile Selassie. Selassie became the face of resistance for Ethiopia during the 1930s with the nation in the midst of invasion and instability. “We saw so many great documentaries and learned so much,” said Koval. “We were shocked to be advancing to state, and plan on editing our video.” Six groups, some of which were individual projects, represented Poly. The process of preparing for the competition often includes several months of gathering research and making a presentation. Some groups even started preparing over the summer. “It’s great to see the initiative and creativity that goes into these projects,” said Mr. Gillogly, Poly’s team sponsor. “I’m so impressed every year by the projects that are showcased”. Poly will compete in the state competition taking place on May 8 and May 9.
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