Students interested in taking part in the  Independent Study & Mentorship Program (ISM) for 2021-2022 face a deadline of Friday to submit all teacher recommendations and evaluations, with online applications due Feb. 26

“The ISM Program is a rigorous, challenging course designed for academically gifted and high achieving junior and senior students,” ISM teacher Kelli Secord said. “The program allows mature & responsible students who have a strong work ethic and are curious and passionate about a particular field of study to pursue their passions and participate in self-directed learning.” 

For senior Urja Joshi, ISM teaches essential skills all students can use. 

“ISM requires students to interact with professionals and shadow mentors in the real world,” Joshi said. “Because of ISM, I am so much more prepared for my future career-wise because I understand professional and real-world etiquette.”

Another senior, Sarah Ahmed who has been in ISM for two years and is studying Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, recommends students join the program.

“Many of us, as high schoolers, don’t get opportunities to go after their passions,” Ahmed said. “ISM is a program that understands that some teenagers are almost certain of their future job, and gives them the opportunity to go after it.” 

Although there can be some rigorous work, students can learn many things that can be used in the real world.

 “ISM covers a variety of topics such as resume writing, interviewing skills, business and social etiquette,” Secord said. “As well as,  intense research, topic-related product development, public speaking and presentations, hands-on experiences in real work environments, participation in district events, portfolio development, and more.” 

But the skills learned in ISM go beyond the classroom according to Secord.

“Those students willing to put forth the effort and step out of their comfort zones find that they experience growth not only in their grasp and understanding of a subject of great interest to them,” Secord said. “But throughout the process, they inherently build their self-confidence, practice and implement time management skills, set and achieve goals, make responsible decisions, learn relationship skills, and develop social awareness.”