Independent Studies Inspire Exploration

CIARA LATHAM, XII

Often at CSG, many of us find ourselves in an academic slump chained to a cycle of scholastic achievement: learn, test, repeat. So easily we write off the idea that education caters to our curiosities and what inspires us most. Yet when we do cater to our individual intellectual hunger, it is revealed that the pursuit of knowledge is just as great as knowledge itself-- and a few students have already discovered this.

Duringmyjunioryear,Itook Introduction to Modern Black Studies. Every “B” day morning, I would head to Dr K’s office and canvass readings by Du Bois, Washington, Hughes, Hurston, and so many more.

To my surprise, Dr. K had collections of annotated works from her graduate study along with endless amounts of knowledge to share. My study of classic Black works left a lasting impact on me-- I find myself returningtothemoverandoveragain. Though it’s something not everyone can admit, I have a genuine love for learning, experiences like independent studies remind me of that.

America”, with chief equity officer and DEI coordinator Ms. Smith. “Mixed in America” was a social study course on Biracial identity in the United States. As Maya wrote in her comprehensive paper: “I knew how I had been treated as a multiracial person in society. Did my experiences support or contradict others? Are there underlying reasons? I wanted to know.” Maya also detailed that her interest was not unprovoked. The portrayal of a mixed-race figure in Netflix’s Self Made (a limited series about early African-American millionaire Madam CJ Walker) sparked immense curiosity. During her study, Maya delved into “Black-White multiracial populations in America.” The outcomes were deeply rewarding which Maya credits in part to the close alignment with her own identity. “I learned some of my experiences were supported through scientific evidence and surveys of other Black-White multiracial individuals,” she explained.

MayaHoward,XII,reflected on her independent study, “Mixed in Netflix's historical miniseries, Self Made.

As I began my final semester in high school, I felt the need to return to my academic areas of interest. Once again, I approached Dr. Krichbaum about coordinating another independent study. I knew that if my current experience was even half as illuminating as my first independent study, the work would be worth it. I encourage anyone with a interest or passionate to begin your pursuit now. It’s never too late to start learning.