After researching a topic of their choice in the first semester, students in Independent Study and Mentorship (ISM) have the opportunity to present their research portfolios on Wednesday in the library. The ISM gallery walk will be open to staff and students alike during 2nd, 3rd, and 4th period and will close briefly during advisory.
“The ISM gallery walk is a showcase event for our Independent Study and Mentorship students,” ISM teacher Courtney Benson said. “Its purpose is to give students a platform to display their research journeys, original work, and mentorship experiences to their teachers and peers.”
The portfolios are the culmination of multiple years of research for some students.
“In ISM this year, I am continuing my research from my first year in ISM, which is pediatric optometry,” senior Saanvi Patel said. “More specifically, I am focusing on myopia management and the different techniques available. As we are entering the second semester, we are starting our final product, which is a continuation of our original work from the first semester.”
In the previous semester, students interviewed field-specific professionals and conducted in-depth research. This semester, students’ research from the previous semester will be compiled into professional display boards to highlight their findings and methodology.
“I am most looking forward to seeing the students interact with their peers and teachers,” Benson said. “It is always rewarding to witness their confidence as they discuss complex topics they are passionate about.”
Beyond presenting their research findings and showcasing the work they put into their portfolios, ISM students can use the gallery walk as a learning experience to improve their communication skills.
“It provides a real-world environment for them to practice soft skills like professional communication, networking, and public speaking,” Benson said. “They also gain valuable feedback from attendees and get a moment to celebrate their hard work.”
Students will have additional opportunities to share their research with their peers in the final ISM Presentation Night and the ISM Showcase, and for students like senior Samriddhi Parashar, the gallery walk is only a taste of what’s to come.
“This year, I’m especially looking forward to the ISM Showcase at Comerica on January 29th, because it is such a great opportunity to network and present all of your research in a professional setting,” Parashar said. “Additionally, I get to see everyone else’s ideas and hard work, and I don’t think there’s anything more rewarding than that.”
