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The ISM program has exposed me to the world
of journalism. By interviewing several journalists in varying positions at
multiple businesses, I have been able to enrich my experience through having
conversations with professional journalists.
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Even with rigorous coursework and
jam-packed schedules, motivated students strive to accomplish their goals and
aim to learn about potential career paths through a variety of resources
available in Frisco.
There is a multitude of AP classes and
career exploration opportunities at the CTE center offered by the Frisco
Independent School District, challenging students to plan for their futures.
Additionally, the Independent Study and
Mentorship Program (ISM) is a class offered by all six high schools in Frisco
and it gives students the opportunity to explore career options. This course
provides students with the means to learn about a topic of their choice and to
acquire professional experience in a specific field.
Deviating from the curriculum-based system
heavily enforced in schools today, ISM allows students to learn professional
etiquette, improve communication skills, and create their own work and product
through the guidance of a mentor.
A formal application and an interview
process are required to be admitted into this program. Through this system,
driven students are able to put their habits of hard work into action as they
pursue potential career paths.
The first semester of the program
emphasizes independent research and learning through contacting professionals
and setting up interviews.
Following the interview process, students
typically ask one of the professionals they interviewed to be their mentor. The
second semester of the program includes going to weekly mentor visits,
completing an original work assignment, and developing a final product.
A final presentation night in which ISM
students showcase display boards and portfolios with work from the whole year
and give a comprehensive speech in front of family, friends, and mentors
concludes this program.
On a personal level, the ISM program has
exposed me to the world of journalism. By interviewing several journalists in
varying positions at multiple businesses, I have been able to enrich my
experience through having conversations with professional journalists.
Most of all, ISM gave me hope for my
future. Uncertainty and stress regarding college majors and future professions
can be overwhelming for sixteen and seventeen year old students.
The beauty of this program is that it has
let me explore a world that wasn’t confined to the walls of a classroom.
Without set criteria, I was able to learn about something that interests me and
acquire my own individual experience in a field that I will be pursuing in
college.
