Austin Student Launches New Self-Defense Club
The student-led program helps McNeil High School peers learn personal safety skills before they head to college.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Teens
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Is it a priority that high schoolers receive formal self-defense training before leaving for college?
McNeil High School junior Nikita Devasthale recently earned the Girl Scout Gold Award after launching a student-led self-defense club. The initiative aims to provide high school students in Austin with practical personal safety skills before they head to college.
Why it matters
Learning personal safety techniques can help high schoolers navigate the transition to independent life on college campuses. By creating a school-based program, students gain accessible training to build confidence and awareness in a low-pressure environment.
A survey of attendees at the McNeil High School club showed 88% would recommend the sessions or return, based on a typical meeting size of 15 to 20 students. This preliminary feedback highlights student engagement with the 30- to 40-minute monthly training sessions.
The players
Nikita Devasthale
A junior at McNeil High School and a second-degree black belt who founded a school self-defense program.
Girl Scouts of the USA
A youth development organization that confers the Gold Award, its highest achievement, for community service projects.
The details
The club sessions, designed by Devasthale, leverage her background as a second-degree black belt from Golden Hands Martial Arts. During monthly meetings, students learn foundational self-defense movements and strategies meant to improve personal awareness and safety readiness. The program specifically targets students preparing for the transition to college, offering a consistent environment to practice these skills.
Timeline
The self-defense club launched at McNeil High School in 2025.
Nikita Devasthale earned her Girl Scout Gold Award in October 2026.
Health Landscape
The Girl Scout Gold Award serves as a framework for students to address community-specific health and safety needs through structured service. This project aligns with the long-standing tradition of empowering youth to develop sustainable, community-level interventions.
Students interested in personal safety can look for similar extracurricular clubs or community martial arts programs in the Austin area. It is worth discussing with a physician or local safety expert which self-defense techniques are appropriate for your individual comfort and fitness levels.
The takeaway
Building personal safety skills can be a proactive way for students to increase their confidence before entering college. If you are interested in self-defense, reach out to local community centers or martial arts studios to find beginner-friendly introductory classes.
Further reading
Learn more about local programs and resources in our Teens section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KXAN.
Live Poll
Is it a priority that high schoolers receive formal self-defense training before leaving for college?
