The Independent Study and Mentorship Program at Frisco High
School has already taken off for the school year. This program, commonly
referred to as ISM, is well- loved by ambitious juniors and seniors, who are
given the opportunity to choose a career field to study throughout the school
year. Students are able to investigate
any field in which they are passionate, ranging from engineering to law, music
production to forensic science, and endless other opportunities. Students
conduct informational interviews with professionals in the field of their choice throughout
the first semester and choose a mentor for the second semester. Students meet with their mentor once a week
in order to create a product and learn more about the field. The course also
teaches students professional skills as they conduct cold calls, schedule
professional interviews in the business setting, and learn to give 30 to 45 minute
presentations in an engaging and professional manner. Students are currently
beginning the process of contacting professionals to set up interviews. They have
also created professional resumes, as well as blogs with which to record their
progress, discoveries and journey. ISM is unlike any course at FHS, or at any
high school in the United States, as it enables students to truly make a
difference in the world. Final products for the course can range from film
scores for actual movies, functional prosthetic limbs, research on cures for
cancer, and endless other possibilities. ISM also enables students to make
valuable connections for their futures and to decide if the area they decided
to study is what they want to pursue in college. This course builds confidence,
professionalism and valuable connections in the upcoming generation, making it
an unforgettable and invaluable experience.
Don’t miss the ISM Winter Showcase at Heritage High School
on December 16th at 6:30pm! Students from all seven high schools
will be presenting their research and exhibiting their first semester
accomplishments. See you there!
Story Written by Sarah Meeks - ISM 2 Student
Story Written by Sarah Meeks - ISM 2 Student
