Leading with Purpose: How Maria and the Walt Whitman Club Are Making a Difference
At Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland, senior Maria Garcia-Musalem is proving that impact starts with a single step—and a whole lot of heart. As the leader of her school’s School the World Club, Ayudar Para Cambiar (“Help to Change”), Maria has grown a small, quiet chapter into a vibrant force for awareness, action, and education equity.
Her story offers a blueprint for students anywhere who want to make a difference—whether they have a personal connection to School the World, have traveled on a service trip, or are simply passionate about the power of education.
Starting a Club: Passion Meets Purpose
Maria’s involvement began with family ties to the organization, but her personal passion took it from there. Like many clubs, her chapter started with a small group and big hopes. Taking over as a sophomore, she faced the challenge of rebuilding a club led by seniors who were graduating and had limited time.
“I was kind of the only returning member,” she recalls. But rather than let that discourage her, she leaned in—recruiting new members, building momentum, and focusing on making the club her own.
If you’re thinking about starting a club, you don’t need a perfect plan. All you need is a commitment to School the World’s mission: fighting extreme poverty through education. Clubs can be started by anyone—whether you’ve taken a service trip, heard about the organization through a friend, or just want to make a difference.
What Clubs Do: Awareness, Fundraising, and Leadership
Maria’s club sets out to do three key things:
This year, Maria’s club focused on sponsoring a scholarship for a middle school student in Guatemala, covering essentials like uniforms and books. Through events like bake sales and club night outreach, they’re not just raising funds—they’re educating their peers on why education matters globally.
What’s Working: Bake Sales, Culture, and Social Media
To fundraise, Maria’s club leans into creative ideas with cultural flair. At their downtown Bethesda bake sales, they offer Latin American treats like brigadeiros and alfajores. These unique offerings spark curiosity—and conversations.
“We try to stay on theme,” Maria says. “It helps connect people to what we’re doing.”
They’re also exploring partnerships with local businesses for future dine-out nights or donation drives. And social media plays a big role—amplifying their message and showing how small actions can lead to big impact.
But perhaps the most important strategy? Persistence. Maria encourages students not to give up if interest isn’t immediate. “Keep asking. Keep inviting people to get involved,” she says. “Sometimes it just takes a little time.”
Sustaining the Momentum: Leadership Transitions
As Maria prepares to graduate, she’s not just winding down—she’s building up. Leadership transition is top of mind, and she’s actively mentoring underclassmen to carry the torch.
“I want to leave the club in good hands,” she says. That means sharing what she’s learned, passing down contacts, and helping new leaders build confidence and continuity.
Want to Start a Club or Fundraise?
Whether you’re part of a formal club or just one student with a big idea, there’s a place for you in the School the World movement. Fundraising can take many forms—from bake sales to birthday fundraisers to awareness campaigns. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Inspired by Maria’s story? Fill out this quick form and we’ll help you start a club or take action in your community.
From classrooms to communities: education that transforms. Be part of the change—just like Maria.