Cambridge student wins graphic novel contest on insecurities

CAMBRIDGE, N.Y. (NEWS10) -"Nat Good Enough" comes from a graphic novel series following the adventures of the main character Natalie as she learns about self-confidence. The short story became a lesson plan last school year to work on writing and self-reflecting.

"We all have doubts and insecurities and I think certainly students maybe don't believe in themselves or see the beauty in their individuality," said Aimee Smith, 4th Grade Teacher at Cambridge Central School.

That lesson came with a national contest for students to make their own comic page and reflect on their bad thoughts or 'doubt gremlins'. Aubrey Pacher drew herself talking to Nat about her self-image and how Nat would respond. "I didn't really wear shorts that much because I didn't feel comfortable wearing them publicly," explained Pacher.

Aubrey's comic won her a copy of "Nat For Nothing" and a certificate given to four other kids in the country. She says being open about her fears has helped tame those doubt gremlins.

"At first I was worried and still felt really insecure and I still am a little bit but it's gotten better and I wear shorts a little more."

The lesson has gone beyond pencil and paper by helping the students embrace the things that might embarrass them. "I think that it really helped with people's insecurities to just let them off your chest and talk about it," described Pacher.