Senior Capstones Demonstrate In-Depth Learning
During the final weeks of the semester, seniors presented independent research projects, known as capstones, which are required for most majors.
Often a topic sparks a student’s interest in a class, abroad program, or other experience, as was the case for Nate Richards (pictured above), who traveled on the Japan Abroad his sophomore year. A global studies and educational studies double major with a minor in Asian studies, Nate learned about Japan’s stringent standardized examination system while on the abroad and decided to focus his capstone on the complex societal and familial expectations in Japanese culture that form the backdrop for the country’s school examinations.
Two other students’ capstones in economics revealed in-depth analysis of domestic and global issues. Zacher Lewis studied 20th-century Soviet Union, analyzing Joseph Stalin’s attempt to collectivize land. He then compared this model with property rights in the U.S. to illustrate a correlation between property rights and a healthy economy. Rodgers Mutaawe researched the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on the economies of developing countries. A double major, Rodgers also presented a sociology capstone on homelessness, which drew on his internship with an organization serving the homeless in San Francisco. He plans to apply what he learned to help break the cycle of homelessness in his home country of Uganda.
Showcasing the Fine Arts
Senior art majors worked together to create an exhibit of large-scale paintings, multimedia pieces, graphic designs, and photography. They installed the collection and hosted an opening for the show in Radford Gallery. Mason Williams, who traveled on the Greece and Italy Abroad in the fall, exhibited his oil painting Reconsidered, which was inspired by the abroad. Reconsidered was later purchased by the College. (A work by a senior is selected each year for this honor.)
Theatre arts majors presented a series of one acts, which they oversaw entirely—from selecting the pieces to casting and directing them. For example, Stephen Hanlin, who studied with professionals from the Globe Theatre while on the England Abroad, directed scenes from Fortinbras by Lee Blessing.
Our graduates frequently report the lasting benefits of their capstone projects, and those who continue on to graduate school often find that the research required for capstones is on par with graduate-level work. Others note that the presentation skills they gained through the capstone process prepared them for success in the workplace.