Independent Study Projects for Seniors

During Minimester, all seniors conduct an independent study project to investigate a potential career or explore an academic interest in greater depth. To get the most from their internship or research experience, students keep a journal, write a final report and make a presentation to the school community. Whether their interests are confirmed or challenged, seniors find independent study to be a valuable tool for evaluating where they’re headed before they get to college. A notation of the student’s performance—either Honors, Pass or Fail—appears on her final transcript. Particularly outstanding ISPs are recognized with honors at Commencement.

Recent independent study internships have included:

• Study effects of UV radiation on marsh vegetation

•  Marine Biology at an aquarium Bahamas

• Environmental Sustainability at a self-sustained community

• Fashion at Elle Accessories in New York City

• Human Rights work in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

• Healthcare reform at the Center for Health Transformation

• Cultural study of Kente weaving in Kumasi, Ghana

• Tissue Engineering at a University Hospital in Seoul, Korea

• Photography with a National Geographic Photographer

• Public policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, DC

• Marketing at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida

• Veterinary medicine at an animal park in Hong Kong

• Elementary education at an orphanage in South America