Jared Olster, a rising senior at Miami Palmetto High School, has recently received the Outstanding Junior Social Science Award, recognizing his academic achievements in the field of social sciences.
This accolade comes as a testament to his dedication and hard work in Advanced Placement U.S. History, a rigorous course that provides an in-depth examination of American history, highlighting both the divisive and unifying issues that have shaped the nation.
Olster’s journey into social sciences goes beyond the classroom, as he actively participates in the Temple Beth Am Social Justice Teen Fellowship.
This fellowship not only addresses pressing societal issues but also engages students in hands-on community service projects within underserved neighborhoods.
“There have been opportunities where we went to poorer communities and we did things like gardening in food deserts,” Olster shares, illustrating the practical impact of their efforts.
During his freshman year, the group traveled to Memphis, where they distributed food in areas with significant homelessness.
Reflecting on the experience, he notes, “I do remember, we learned about civil rights a little bit and Martin Luther King.
I was mainly focused on poverty, but also the historical aspect, too.”
In addition to local outreach, the group ventured to Washington, D.C. to discuss critical issues with Congressional representatives.
Olster took the opportunity to address the pressing matter of gun violence, although he didn’t get to speak directly with former Senator Marco Rubio; instead, he communicated with one of Rubio’s aides.
The relevance of gun violence resonates deeply with Olster, especially as he knew students who were affected by the tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018.
This past February, Olster traveled to Guatemala on another mission trip, where the fellowship group helped construct a school using sustainable materials.
“We worked at that school basically the whole time, all three days,” he recalls.
He describes the experience as strenuous but rewarding, stating, “It was a lot of physical work, and we helped them a lot with the school’s progress.”
He further elaborates on the severe poverty he witnessed in Guatemala, which he describes as the worst he has encountered thus far.
Looking ahead, the group plans to travel to Colombia for another mission trip next year.
Reflecting on his involvement, Olster expresses how these experiences have connected him to different cultures and exposed him to various social issues.
“It’s given me a sense of gratitude, and it’s given me empathy,” he explains.
These insights have fueled his desire to take action and contribute positively, regardless of how small the effort may seem.
At home, Olster is also involved in a variety of extracurricular activities.
He serves on the Palmetto Student Council as a member of the staff appreciation committee and is an active participant in the Health Information Project (HIP) as a peer counselor.
His role in HIP allows him to share valuable insights with freshmen, helping them navigate challenges he has faced, while also equipping them with resources.
“I want them to know it’s normal and give them resources.
HIP has helped me develop thinking skills and leadership skills,” he states with pride.
He describes his interactions with younger students as successful, noting, “They participated.
I thought they were very receptive, and they understood what was going on.
I helped inform them.
I would call it a success.”
Olster is proud to be a member of the National Honor Society and the Finance Club, which is currently transitioning to become the National Business Honor Society.
His commitment to service continues as he actively participates in Interact and PAWS, and he also holds the position of treasurer on the board of Tutoring for Tomorrow.
Through this organization, tutors donate half of their fees back, which is then allocated to various charitable initiatives every month.
Additionally, Olster serves as a Youth Ambassador for Feeding South Florida, one of only 12 students in this role and the sole representative from Miami.
In this capacity, he advocates for Feeding South Florida on social media and volunteers at their warehouse.
Olster’s multifaceted involvement in social justice, advocacy, and community service exemplifies his commitment to making a difference and addressing the pressing issues faced by society today.
As he prepares for his senior year, his experiences and dedication to social change position him as a promising leader for his community and beyond.
Linda Rodriguez Bernfeld
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