Q: When did the independent senior project program commence at Derryfield?

A: Since 1985, Derryfield seniors have been offered the opportunity to spend the last five weeks of their academic study pursuing an outside interest as part of an independent senior project (ISP). Starting in 2021, ISPs became a permanent feature of the senior curriculum. 

Q: What are some unique features of the ISP program?

A: ISPs, particularly internships or contacts within a field of interest, often lead to either summer jobs or future internships. This is due to the large, diverse, and engaged Derryfield alumni base, who enthusiastically support the work of current Derryfield students. Also, seniors may continue to participate in spring sports while completing their ISPs. 

Q: What are the components of the ISP program at Derryfield?

A: The ISP program involves a total time commitment of 30 to 40 hours per week, a weekly online progress update and meeting with a faculty advisor, a final meeting with the ISP Committee, a short presentation to the school community, and a final written evaluation of the project. Students exhibit their projects at the ISPalooza, an energetic evening of performance and project presentation.

Q: What are some examples of recent ISP projects?

A: In the past two years, Derryfield students have immersed themselves in highly diverse projects. An aspiring physician-scientist experimented with creating plastic-degrading E. coli by transforming the bacteria with the gene that encodes the PETase/MHETase protein complex, a major component of plastic. Two students wrote repatriation guides for detained, undocumented immigrants at the Strafford County Jail. Another senior created a documentary about the impact of the Northern Pass on New Hampshire and how it reflects NH's values on environmental protection and job creation. Some pursued “passion projects” — an equestrian immersed herself with the Manchester Mounted Patrol Unit, assisting them with their community outreach. A self-described “music in film nerd” wrote a new soundtrack for a classic movie. Will Veenstra, one of four 2021 graduates who hit the road to assess the impact of humans on the national parks, talked about some of the life skills acquired during his ISP. “We all got better at problem-solving, talking through our issues as a team, and also returning to good spirits after we worked through our problems.” 

Q: Why does Derryfield require that all seniors participate in the ISP program?

A: The school believes that this culminating experience is a valuable and logical conclusion to a Derryfield education, and in many cases, the project proves to be equally or more impactful than in-class learning. The hope is that seniors will gain a deeper appreciation of their own talents and of the importance of serving and learning from others. 

The Derryfield School is an independent day school welcoming bright, motivated students in grades 6 through 12. A Derryfield education is accessible through an Equitable Tuition program which offers a range of tuition based on a family’s unique financial profile. Buses are offered throughout the region. To learn more, visit discover.derryfield.org.

Contact:

The Admission Office

603-669-4524, Option 3