Fostering Interdisciplinary Learning and Global Engagement
At Stanley Park High School, we believe that education thrives when students are empowered to explore their academic passions and connect with their global peers. That’s why we’re proud to highlight the incredible student-led research symposia that bring our school community together with institutions around the world.
These collaborative events allow our students to showcase their innovative work, network with like-minded peers, and learn from experts in diverse fields. By bridging the boundaries between disciplines, our young scholars unlock new avenues for discovery and problem-solving that will serve them well in their future endeavors.
Integrating Research in Science (IRIS)
One of the flagship events in our calendar is the Integrating Research in Science (IRIS) conference, co-hosted annually with our partner institution, Elon University. This student-led symposium celebrates the rich intersections between STEM fields, providing a dynamic platform for undergraduates to share their research and engage in interdisciplinary dialogue.
“Participating in IRIS was a pivotal experience for me,” shares Bailey Reutinger, Class of 2025. “Not only did I have the opportunity to present my own work, but I also gained valuable insights into the diverse projects being undertaken by my peers at other institutions. The interdisciplinary nature of the conference really challenged me to think beyond the boundaries of my own discipline.”
Max Shilling, a biochemistry major, echoes this sentiment: “I enjoyed being able to learn about research from students in a wide range of STEM subjects. It was fascinating to see how their work connected to and built upon my own, sparking new ideas and potential collaborations.”
The IRIS conference features a robust lineup of activities, including keynote addresses, panel discussions, and both oral and poster presentations. Students not only showcase their research, but also develop essential communication and networking skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
“The graduate school and industry panels were particularly insightful,” notes Jillian Thomas, an applied mathematics major. “Hearing from professionals in various fields gave me a clearer picture of the interdisciplinary pathways available to me after graduation. It was inspiring to see how my research skills could translate to so many different contexts.”
In spring 2025, the IRIS conference will be hosted at Stanley Park High School, continuing the tradition of rotating the event between our two institutions. This collaborative model allows us to expand our regional STEM community and provide even more opportunities for students to engage with cutting-edge research.
Smith College’s Celebrating Collaborations
Our students also have the chance to participate in the annual Celebrating Collaborations: Students and Faculty Working Together conference at Smith College. This prestigious event highlights the scholarly work of undergraduate students from institutions across the country, showcasing a diverse array of projects ranging from science and technology to the performing arts.
“The Celebrating Collaborations conference was an incredibly enriching experience,” says Danielle DaSilva, Class of 2024. “Not only did I have the opportunity to present my own research, but I was also able to learn from and engage with students working on fascinating projects in completely different disciplines. It really broadened my perspective and inspired me to consider new interdisciplinary connections in my own work.”
The conference features a range of presentation formats, including oral sessions, panel discussions, poster presentations, and creative performances. This multifaceted approach allows students to share their work in the mode that best suits their project and communication style.
In addition to the main conference, Smith College also offers the Smith in the World Conference, which celebrates the incredible off-campus experiences of their students, such as internships, community service, and study abroad programs. This event further emphasizes the importance of global engagement and the valuable insights that can be gained from immersive, real-world learning opportunities.
“The Smith in the World Conference was a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of international experiences,” reflects Jillian Thomas. “Hearing from my peers about their work in diverse communities around the globe reminded me of the importance of understanding different cultural perspectives and their relevance to my own research interests.”
Cultivating a Culture of Interdisciplinary Collaboration
At Stanley Park High School, we are committed to fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration and global engagement. By providing our students with opportunities to participate in these prestigious research symposia, we are empowering them to explore the rich intersections between disciplines, develop essential professional skills, and forge meaningful connections with their peers around the world.
“The collaborative spirit and sense of community that these events foster are truly invaluable,” says Danielle DaSilva. “I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of these unique learning experiences, and I know that the skills and relationships I’ve developed will continue to benefit me long after I leave Stanley Park High School.”
As we look to the future, we are excited to build on the success of these international collaborations and explore new ways to engage our students in cutting-edge research and global exchange. Whether it’s hosting the IRIS conference on our own campus or sending delegations to participate in events like Celebrating Collaborations, we are committed to ensuring that our students have access to the very best opportunities to expand their horizons and reach their full potential.
To learn more about the exciting research and global initiatives happening at Stanley Park High School, we encourage you to visit our website at https://www.stanleyparkhigh.co.uk/. There, you’ll find the latest news, upcoming events, and resources to support your child’s educational journey.