In a new Upper School FOCUS course, called “Life’s Big Questions,” Head of Upper School Allison Bishop fosters discussion around one central question: What does it mean to live a meaningful life?
With the hope and determination to show students that there are many pathways in which you can develop and lead a fulfilling life, Ms. Bishop has invited members of the Chapin community to participate as panelists and share their anecdotes and histories. They, in turn, serve as inspiration and a “living library” for the course. Ms. Bishop underscored, “All experiences are welcome and valuable.”
When panels are not in session, students use class time to discuss and write about what they learned, what they are left wondering about and questioning their own experiences in relation to the panel. One particular panel, titled “Life After Chapin,” brought four alums* from the Class of 2011 to Room 213. “These are people you may not have seen before but who have sat where you sit,” said Ms. Bishop.
Students began by introducing themselves and sharing at least one extracurricular they’re involved with at Chapin. (Many of which sparked fond memories for the panelists.)
Then, guided by two questions – ‘Who were you in high school?’ and ‘What was your journey like?’ – the alums provided a summary of their experiences for the 10th and 11th graders.
“I came to Chapin in Kindergarten,” Kate started. “I was really involved, and I had a great time here.” She shared that despite not taking studio art or other art-focused classes in Upper School, she was able to pursue her passion in college. She is currently an MFA candidate at Pratt Institute for painting.
Alex shared that she, too, arrived at Chapin in Kindergarten and is about to embark on a career as a general surgeon at Jersey Shore University Medical Center of Hackensack Meridian Health. “I was never a math or science person in high school,” she said, noting that it wasn’t until a college professor inspired her that she began to delve into the sciences. She stressed, “Even if you’re not pre-med in college, there are other options!”
Alexis, the third panelist, stated as a teenager she had no idea what she wanted to do – and only recently found her career passion. She emphasized for the students that it’s okay if you don’t know where you want to go or what you want to be. She described the various majors and trades she tried, each time realizing that it was not the right fit for her, and yet, was not discouraged.
It wasn’t until she took a job as a consultant that she got a taste of law. “I love what I do now,” she said, referring to her work in criminal defense litigation. “And I’m glad I took the path I did and had the opportunity to try other things.”
Brittni came to Chapin in Class 4 and graduated from Hartwick College with three majors: Economics, Business and English. “Chapin made that easy for me,” she said, smiling.
“Find your happiness and keep looking forward,” she continued. “I am often the youngest person and only female in the room. Keep using your voice. I didn’t always believe the alums who told me that Chapin would prepare me, but it did, and it will for you too.”
After reminiscing about Chapin then and now, teachers, sports teams and the new spaces, Ms. Bishop asked the panelists to share what they would tell their former 10th/11th grade selves.
“It’s okay not to know what you want.” Gesturing to her fellow alums, Brittni said, “We’re all still just figuring it out.” Others shared: “Don’t compare yourself to others,” “You are privileged to receive a Chapin education – even if it doesn’t feel like it,” and “Don’t doubt yourself.”
The remainder of the class was used for a Q&A, with questions such as ‘How do you make friends outside of Chapin?’ ‘How did you overcome self-doubt?’ and ‘How do you deal with setbacks?’
While there is no rule book on how to live a meaningful life, it was apparent that these alums have the utmost faith that Chapin scholars will succeed in whatever they set out to achieve.
*Panelists:
Alexis Gannaway ’11
Kate McElhiney ’11
Brittni Rhoden ’11
Alexandra Shapiro ’11
