One Storm King School senior, Edward I. ’23, is not only getting closer to graduation and college, but also to discovering his future career. “I have always been interested in the sciences, especially biology and marine life,” explained Edward, who recently completed an SKS independent study course in the marine field. “I requested independent study because I wanted to get first-hand knowledge from teachers and professionals, and get a clearer direction for my future career path.”
Edward’s semester-long study began when he partnered with SKS’ environmental science teacher Mr. Jacobson, who mentored him through the process. “At the start, the most important thing was to set objectives and then plan the course of study together with Edward to reach those objectives,” explained Mr. Jacobson.
“My primary objective was to increase my knowledge of careers available, and find out what those specific jobs entail. To do this, I conducted interviews with marine professionals in different areas. Specifically, I designed questions and interviewed people in research, education, and marine affairs, as well as marine entrepreneurs,” Edward explained.
“The next step was to set deliverables for the project and make a timeline. My plan included writing journal entries based on the interviews, preparing and teaching a lesson for the Environmental Science class at SKS, writing a summary of my independent study process, and giving a final presentation to the SKS community,” continued Edward.
Over the course of the semester, Edward conducted research, studied environmental regulations and policy, simulated the role of an educator, and gained a deeper understanding of what is involved in working for the government versus a nonprofit, as a researcher or a teacher, or being a marine entrepreneur.
At the conclusion of the study, Edward presented his project to the community and shared his thoughts about his short and longer-term plans: “I will take both marine affairs and entrepreneurship classes and do internships and research projects in college. After graduation, I will most likely get into something other than research or education although either might be an aspect of a job I take.” Edward will attend the University of New England in Maine in the fall.
About Independent Study
Independent study at The Storm King School offers coursework that enables students to explore their burgeoning passions and deep-dive into their areas of interest. At Storm King, independent study is allowed on a case-by-case basis for students who work well independently and have high academic performance overall.
Students interested in earning credit toward graduation through independent study take the lead by finding a faculty member to advise the study. Then, the coursework is developed in collaboration between the student and the teacher to supplement the School’s departmental offerings.
