Showing posts with label Student Stories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Student Stories. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Frisco Students Blossom in Mentoring Program
Byron Harris, WFAA
FRISCO — Caps, gowns and speeches are the biggest thing in North Texas this week as high school graduations commence.
But for scores of Frisco Independent School District students, the most memorable part of the school year may not be walking across the stage, but the months they spent in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program.
"There's so much preparation, it's crazy the amount of work you have to do," said senior Ally Calandro, who planned her own charter school as her final project in the innovative program.
ISM, as the program is known, is offered at all seven Frisco high schools. It requires a student to:
- identify a subject to study
- convince a mentor to spend time with them
- produce a "product" that summarizes what they've learned
Students then present a half-hour speech for their mentor.
Alina Naismith designed, wrote and illustrated a children's book as part of her study of pediatric occupational therapy. The book includes Naismith's artwork and unique dry erase panels that let children practice writing as they work through the volume.
Topics of study are diverse, and include everything from the exportation of wood chips to plastic surgery.
Some students say the most difficult part of the course is convincing a mentor to sponsor them, teach them, and spend several months with them.
It's not an easy sell.
"I studied pediatric endocrinology, and I had to call about 30 doctors," said senior Marissa Heintschel.
Sarah Meeks contacted News 8 producer Jason Trahan with a proposal to learn about investigative reporting. She succeeded in convincing him (and this reporter) to walk her through the essentials of reporting, investigating and interviewing.
Her final product was a TV news story about urban threats to wildlife.
Fortunately for the students at Frisco High School, there's Karene Goff-Owen to help guide them. "Their confidence grows exponentially throughout the year from the experience," she said.
Coach Goff, as she's affectionately known, is as much of a life coach as she is a teacher.
"Coach Goff is like my second mom," Meeks said.
Behind Goff's desk is her "Wall of Fame," which holds snapshots of dozens of her students whom she now considers her friends.
"They're my kids," she said. "Kids I've made a connection with, and hopefully impacted in some form or fashion."
As graduation arrives and the students move on with their lives, it's a bittersweet time for the life coach.
"I don't look at graduation as a goodbye," she said. "I fully expect many of them to keep in touch with me, and to come back and visit. I let them know that the door is always open here, and they're welcome to come back."
FRISCO — Caps, gowns and speeches are the biggest thing in North Texas this week as high school graduations commence.
But for scores of Frisco Independent School District students, the most memorable part of the school year may not be walking across the stage, but the months they spent in the Independent Study and Mentorship Program.
"There's so much preparation, it's crazy the amount of work you have to do," said senior Ally Calandro, who planned her own charter school as her final project in the innovative program.
ISM, as the program is known, is offered at all seven Frisco high schools. It requires a student to:
- identify a subject to study
- convince a mentor to spend time with them
- produce a "product" that summarizes what they've learned
Students then present a half-hour speech for their mentor.
Alina Naismith designed, wrote and illustrated a children's book as part of her study of pediatric occupational therapy. The book includes Naismith's artwork and unique dry erase panels that let children practice writing as they work through the volume.
Topics of study are diverse, and include everything from the exportation of wood chips to plastic surgery.
Some students say the most difficult part of the course is convincing a mentor to sponsor them, teach them, and spend several months with them.
It's not an easy sell.
"I studied pediatric endocrinology, and I had to call about 30 doctors," said senior Marissa Heintschel.
Sarah Meeks contacted News 8 producer Jason Trahan with a proposal to learn about investigative reporting. She succeeded in convincing him (and this reporter) to walk her through the essentials of reporting, investigating and interviewing.
Her final product was a TV news story about urban threats to wildlife.
Fortunately for the students at Frisco High School, there's Karene Goff-Owen to help guide them. "Their confidence grows exponentially throughout the year from the experience," she said.
Coach Goff, as she's affectionately known, is as much of a life coach as she is a teacher.
"Coach Goff is like my second mom," Meeks said.
Behind Goff's desk is her "Wall of Fame," which holds snapshots of dozens of her students whom she now considers her friends.
"They're my kids," she said. "Kids I've made a connection with, and hopefully impacted in some form or fashion."
As graduation arrives and the students move on with their lives, it's a bittersweet time for the life coach.
"I don't look at graduation as a goodbye," she said. "I fully expect many of them to keep in touch with me, and to come back and visit. I let them know that the door is always open here, and they're welcome to come back."
Friday, May 29, 2015
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Former FHS ISM Student Interviewed by Textbook.com
Informational Interview: So You Want to be an Architecture Intern?
When Travis Schneider was deciding where to apply for his architecture internship, he didn’t have to look far. His high school mentor – Michael Malone – heads a top Dallas architecture firm, Malone Maxwell Borson Architects. Three summers later, the University of Texas senior keeps returning as an architecture intern for two main reasons he says: “the work is diverse and compelling, and the environment is supportive.”
Another reason? His continued dedication has meant a full-time job offer upon graduation. “Having a clear, stable, enjoyable option for my post-college future is a wonderful luxury,” the Frisco, TX, native says.
Curious about Travis’s architectural internship experience and advice for fellow architecture majors? Read on for our Q&A.
Q: What is your day-to-day like?
A: My main tool is the computer; I use programs like Revit, AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to make architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents based on the design decisions of the firm’s principals. I also visit our clients at the project sites to take measurements of existing conditions, and build a good number of building models by hand.
A: My main tool is the computer; I use programs like Revit, AutoCAD, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to make architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents based on the design decisions of the firm’s principals. I also visit our clients at the project sites to take measurements of existing conditions, and build a good number of building models by hand.
Q: What’s the most challenging thing about your architectural internship?
A: Deadlines are a constant, looming reality in architecture firms. I like to work at a natural pace in order to have a consistent level of effort and focus; so, deadlines can lead to some very stressful afternoons. Learning to increase the efficiency of quality work, and finding a compromise between “perfection” and productivity, is a career-long challenge.
A: Deadlines are a constant, looming reality in architecture firms. I like to work at a natural pace in order to have a consistent level of effort and focus; so, deadlines can lead to some very stressful afternoons. Learning to increase the efficiency of quality work, and finding a compromise between “perfection” and productivity, is a career-long challenge.
Q: You’ve continued to return to the same internship three summers in a row. Have you considered interning elsewhere, for a different mix of experience?
A: Considering the modest size and capabilities of the firm I work for, I could not have asked for a more positive internship experience. However, I think that a summer or semester working for a large and/or renowned architectural firm, one that does museums, concert halls, high-rises, and other large cultural infrastructure, would also be an important asset. Gaining experience with large-scale projects while still an intern makes it much easier to get a job doing that sort of work in the future, be that your desire.
A: Considering the modest size and capabilities of the firm I work for, I could not have asked for a more positive internship experience. However, I think that a summer or semester working for a large and/or renowned architectural firm, one that does museums, concert halls, high-rises, and other large cultural infrastructure, would also be an important asset. Gaining experience with large-scale projects while still an intern makes it much easier to get a job doing that sort of work in the future, be that your desire.
Q: What personality traits do you think best serve architecture interns?
A: You need to be adaptable because the work can be different and unpredictable each day. You need to be a good communicator because you will be working closely with co-workers on the development of designs, models, and drawings. Do not be afraid to ask questions (no matter how simple), but also use these questions to improve your self-sufficiency. Finally, a true passion for architectural design is essential; it will get you through the endless days of gluing pieces of chipboard together and staring into computer screens.
A: You need to be adaptable because the work can be different and unpredictable each day. You need to be a good communicator because you will be working closely with co-workers on the development of designs, models, and drawings. Do not be afraid to ask questions (no matter how simple), but also use these questions to improve your self-sufficiency. Finally, a true passion for architectural design is essential; it will get you through the endless days of gluing pieces of chipboard together and staring into computer screens.
Q: What advice would you give to someone looking for an internship like yours?
A: If you haven’t yet, make yourself known to the company you’re interested in. Having a well-assembled resume and portfolio is bare-bones stuff and will not make you stand out as a desirable hire. Connecting a face, voice, and story to these deliverables will be what keeps you in their memory.
A: If you haven’t yet, make yourself known to the company you’re interested in. Having a well-assembled resume and portfolio is bare-bones stuff and will not make you stand out as a desirable hire. Connecting a face, voice, and story to these deliverables will be what keeps you in their memory.
Social events held by the American Institute of Architects are great occasions to unobtrusively meet people. If you are an architecture student, take full advantage of your school’s career services and professional connections; many firms, especially the larger ones, make a habit out of farming their alma maters for potential interns.
Q: Any other advice?
A: Find a way to visit Europe before you begin working full-time! Experiencing a huge sampling of mankind’s greatest works of architecture is truly inspiring, and immersing yourself in the culture and organization of European cities is absolutely life-changing. It will challenge and expand your perception of what is successful, what is right, and what is possible in your home society.
A: Find a way to visit Europe before you begin working full-time! Experiencing a huge sampling of mankind’s greatest works of architecture is truly inspiring, and immersing yourself in the culture and organization of European cities is absolutely life-changing. It will challenge and expand your perception of what is successful, what is right, and what is possible in your home society.
Follow Travis on the UT website.
Monday, May 19, 2014
Best Foot Forward
As the semester begins to pick up the pace, Independent
Study and Mentorship students are busy prepping for milestones in their
mentorships by completing projects ranging from planning a worship service to
analyzing musical theory. One student in particular has put her best foot
forward, literally. For her Original Work project, FHS Senior Brianna Heath
made a prosthetic leg from start to finish for Candy Paquette, one of her two
mentors. “It was nerve-racking, to be honest,” Brianna said when asked about
what the process was like. “My mentors would tell me what to do and then I
would do it on my own, but the pressure was on because Candy is both a
prosthetist and an amputee –she knows everything, but they were there for me
every step of the way and I learned so much.” Local prosthetists Gary
Strobeland Candy Paquette, guided her through the entire fabrication process,
from creating the mold to finalizing the adjustments. “Seeing something I made
that gave someone the ability to walk again… is amazing. As a prosthetist, I
have the opportunity to really impact people’s lives.” Brianna’s prosthetic leg
is one of the many fascinating projects being done in ISM this year, but that
diversity is exactly what ISM is all about. “It’s a year-long immersion into
something you’re truly passionate about,” Brianna said. “It doesn’t matter if
it turns out to be your future career – it’s a series of incredible
opportunities that have no limits at all. Who else can say that they’ve made a
leg for an amputee before they’ve graduated high school? Designed a building?
Planned the local news? I couldn’t have done any of this if it hadn’t been for
Coach Goff and the ISM program.”
Story written by: Brianna
Heath, 12th Grade, ISM student
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Program allows Frisco ISD high school students learn beyond the classroom
 |
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.
|
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.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Frisco High ISM student's article published in the Dallas Morning News
McKinney Resident's ‘Zumbathon’ to Give Back to Her Hometown of West
 |
| Rose
Baca/neighborsgo staff photographer |
Elliott strikes a Zumba pose at Texas Family Fitness in Frisco. A native of West, she organized RISE UP, Dance for West, a “Zumbathon” to be held on April 12, with proceeds to benefit The First Baptist Church of West Disaster Relief Fund. “Tammy is able to use her God-given talent to help other people,” said Brandy Stiffler, a three-year Zumba student and a friend of Elliott’s.
By MIKAELA CANNIZZO
By MIKAELA CANNIZZO
Published: 04 April 2014 08:04 AM
Updated: 04 April 2014 11:34 AM
As the anniversary of the fertilizer
explosion in West approaches, Tammy Elliott can still feel the effects when she
visits her hometown.
Elliott, a Zumba instructor who now
lives in McKinney, has friends back home who are still struggling to recover
from the powerful blast at the West Fertilizer Plant that killed 15 people —
including a dozen first responders — and injured more than 300. About 350 homes
and three schools were damaged severely.
The devastation moved Elliott to use
her passion for fitness to benefit the rebuilding efforts. She is organizing a
“Zumbathon” event for the cause after helping coordinate a similar event last
year. “RISE UP, Dance for West” begins at 5:30 p.m. April 12 at The Beach at
Craig Ranch in McKinney.
“The fact that I can dance and help
people in need is my favorite thing about being part of the Zumba community,”
Elliott said.
Elliott and a group of more than 40
Zumba instructors — including some who are traveling from Waco and West to
support the cause — will lead the two-hour fitness event featuring a
continuous, calorie-burning, Latin-inspired dance workout. West native Donna
Beckham, a country singer, will perform the national anthem during the opening
ceremony, and there will be a tribute to fallen West firefighters. All of the
event proceeds and 15 percent of food and drink sales until midnight will go to
The First Baptist Church of West Disaster Relief Fund.
Participants in her classes and
fellow Zumba instructors admire Elliott’s compassion for others and her love
for Zumba.
“Tammy is able to use her God-given
talent to help other people,” said Brandy Stiffler, a three-year Zumba student
and friend of Elliott’s. “I have been able to see firsthand how she has
impacted a family that I know personally.”
Sylvia Bernal is a Zumba instructor
and member of the organizing team for the Zumbathon. Like Elliott, she is
passionate about being part of the event.
“Helping Tammy with something that
she puts her heart and soul into every single day is so special,” Bernal said.
“Every time I talk to her, she is doing something to prepare for this
Zumbathon.”
In the days after the blast, Elliott
was so moved by what happened in her hometown that she began collecting
donations from friends in the Zumba community in North Texas. She accumulated
water, blankets, snacks, toiletries and other items, then drove to West with a
car full of donations.
“Driving through West for the first
time after the explosion was eerie,” she said. “To see all of the news media
and barricaded streets was so surreal.”
During several other visits, she was
inspired by the outpouring of support: HEB set up food trucks, Starbucks gave
out free coffee, and AT&T and Sprint provided phone chargers. Target and
Wal-Mart donated many necessities as well.
Elliott, whose parents moved to West
when she was 5 years old, has lived in McKinney for 11 years. She returns to
West at least every couple of months to visit her sister and her parents. Her
family members live east of the blast area, so their homes were not affected.
But she knows many who were not so lucky.
Jana Pratka is one of Elliott’s many
friends and former West High School classmates who lost their homes in the
April 17 explosion. With Pratka’s parents’ home also destroyed, the families
temporarily moved into houses at nearby Alligator Creek Ranch. But explaining
the death and destruction caused by the explosions to her 5- and 10-year-old
children was the hardest part, she said.
Pratka’s parents moved back into
their home a month ago, and she expects to be able to return soon. “The ranch
is nice, but I have missed the sense of comfort I had at my home,” she said.
In July, Elliott worked with fellow
Zumba instructor Shemane Nugent, the wife of Ted Nugent, and others from
Central Texas at the first Zumbathon for West. About 300 people attended the
event at the Baylor Ferrell Center, which raised $20,000.
The success of that Zumbathon left
Elliott wanting to do more.
This time, Elliott is hosting her
event in North Texas with the goal of encouraging a different group of people
to help her hometown. She hopes to attract at least 200 participants while
calling attention to what the West community is still going through.
“There is still so much to be done,”
she said.
Mikaela Cannizzo is a senior at
Frisco High School. She is studying journalism through the Frisco ISD
Independent Study and Mentorship program.
 |
Rose Baca/neighborsgo staff
photographer
|
Tammy Elliott leads a Zumba class at
Texas Family Fitness on March 29, 2014 in Frisco. Elliott, a native of West,
Texas, organized a Zumbathon, RISE UP, Dance for West, on April 12, with
proceeds to benefit The First Baptist Church of West Disaster Relief Fund
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)