"You Need Help"

“You need help!” said Mr. Perkins.

This phrase had been levelled at me so many times in my life, both literally and metaphorically, I never knew quite how to take it. That day had been no exception.

I was assigned Gabrielle Stevens, the class brain, as my science project partner. She tried to hide it, but when Mr. Perkins read out my name as her co-worker, I saw her give a little shudder. Gabby and I looked like the odd couple. She was tall, thin, always dressed well and was very shy. I on the other hand am short, well up-holstered, dress for comfort and enjoy being the centre of attention. I’m sure Mrs. Abernathy the librarian was surprised to see me with Gabby in the library. In fact I’m sure she was surprised to see me! It’s not a place I usually hangout.

Our first session together was not wonderful. We talked very little and individually sourced the books for information. There was very little collaboration. The next session was markedly improved. Gabby was still a little withdrawn, but I began to show her some of the information I had discovered. She began to offer suggestions on what should and should not be included. By the third day, we were closely involved with the project. It was really coming together. The week flew by and we had put in a lot of time and effort. To both our surprise, we had enjoyed working with each other.

The end of the week rolled around and it was time for the presentation. Gabby was nervous, but this was where I knew I could shine. Together we performed, exhibited, arranged, staged and lectured the life out of our project. We wowed the class and impressed Mr Perkins. I received my first A.