In this picture, the IB learner trait of being a risk-taker is demonstrated by the fact that the general from Star Wars is telling Lord Vader that he is taking a risk by holding out on doing something longer. Although this is meant to be funny and light-hearted, I think that being a risk-taker is a very important trait to have in life. By being a risk-taker I am able to put myself out there. For example this year I decided to audition for the Ronald Reagan Pit Orchestra for this year's musical, Little Shop Of Horrors. This is the first time that I have taken a risk and decided to join something school-related that requires a large time commitment and a great deal of practice to perform. Furthermore, by being a risk taker and challenging myself to play in the pit, that has helped me to challenge myself in other ways throughout my high school career in all aspects of my life: social, academic, and self-care. 

​

Being a risk-taker in high school has helped me to step out of comfort zone and explore the different clubs and extra-curriculars that my high school offers. For example I am part of a radio broadcasting club called, Radio Reagan, this involves me talking on a microphone as a real radio caster would. This is something that I find scary sometimes but I push myself to do it anyways. Furthermore being a risk taker has helped to face my fears in general while in High School. For example I have a fear of needles and blood in general. This year I decided to be a risk-taker and sign up for the Red Cross Blood-Drive that comes to our school multiple times a year. This was very scary for me, I was terrified. However I decided to face the music so to speak and attack my fear head-on. Although I wasn't able to give blood in the end because I didn't meet the weight requirement, I was still proud of myself that I faced my fear for the betterment of others. This then ultimately helped me to build self confidence in myself and my abilities causing me to put myself out there in other ways while in High School.