Nikhita Vijayakumar
Nikhita is a student volunteer at the Historical Village and the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society Library. Nikhita has always been fascinated by the stories of the past. She will be starting her senior year this fall at Dublin Jerome High School. Her interest in history has led her to wonder about the lives of people who walked the same grounds centuries before. Her love for history, combined with her artistic inclinations, made her gravitate towards the Hilliard Ohio Historical Society (HOHS). She has fond memories of her 3rd grade field trip to the historical village. That memory played a significant role in her decision to volunteer there. Encouraged by her father, she decided to offer her time and skills to a place that had given her such fond memories.
At the Historical Society, Nikhita quickly found her niche. She was particularly enchanted by how well-preserved the buildings and items were. Each visit to the museum felt like stepping back in time, allowing her to connect her school learnings with the tangible artifacts and rooms. The schoolhouse, the cabin, and other historical buildings intrigued her, making her appreciate the advancements over time.
Her favorite part of volunteering is working in the gift shop and library, and occasionally stepping in as a docent when needed. In the gift shop, she enjoys interacting with visitors and promoting the unique items. She would like to see better advertising for the gift shop items and the Society as a whole, particularly to attract a younger audience. She has seen the potential of increased engagement during events like the HOHS Art & Craft Fair and believes that strategic displays and promotions could enhance visitor experience and revenue.
In the library, she felt like a detective on a treasure hunt, piecing together historical clues. Her research into the origins of Avery Road was particularly rewarding, giving her a sense of accomplishment and deeper connection to the local history. The Historical Society meant more to Nikhita than just a volunteering opportunity. It was a community where she felt welcomed and valued. The camaraderie among the members and the diverse stories of visitors enriched her experience, making every visit memorable.
Beyond the Historical Society, Nikhita is actively involved in her school and community. As the president of the Interact Club, she leads various volunteer activities, from creating art kits for donation to making seed paper for local gardens. Her involvement in BeWise, Neuroscience club, and Aerospace club further showcases her dedication to learning and community service. Outside of school, she occasionally volunteers with the Dublin Arts Center and her local temple and pursued her passions for violin and dance.
For Nikhita, the Historical Society is a perfect blend of her interests and a platform where she can make a meaningful impact, just as it had once impacted her.
