The Senior Project is an independent, student-led culmination of our high school experience. After three years of academic preparation, our seniors are ready to spend the last trimester of their high school careers applying the skills and knowledge they have gained to develop a project that is insightful, academically rigorous, and professional in nature.

Our seniors start by designing a research question that is often centered on a subject they are passionate or curious about. Then they embark on a journey to answer it, documenting and analyzing their findings as they go. They partner with both an internal and external advisor to support and guide their research. Students may choose to conduct their research in the form of internships or experimental research at university research labs, field work abroad, or research conducted remotely from home. From explorations into new-age technology to cutting-edge medical advancements to social justice, the Senior Project offers students the opportunity to channel their innate curiosity. This experience readies them for the type of self-direction and self-discipline expected in an undergraduate and graduate setting.

This year, we are proud to showcase a senior from one of our neighboring campuses, BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, Aarohi G.

Project Title: State of the Nation: A Critical Analysis of State-Funded Resources for Youth Civic Participation

BASIS Independent Advisor: Dr. Van Dusen

Internship Location: Remote

Onsite Mentor: Dr. Biplav Srivastava, Professor of Computer Science, University of South Carolina

Abstract: This research project aims to understand how state governments can effectively engage high schoolers and the 18-24 year-old voter demographic in sustained civic engagement through a combination of immersive initiatives and legislation. This work will get to the root of the issues blocking young individuals from involvement, compare and contrast states, and identify successes and pitfalls of current efforts. To do so, this research will first involve data analysis from publicly available datasets and be performed in two stages. To understand the impact of legislation on the voting population, a difference in difference analysis of twelve sample states with varying levels of voter turnout can show the effects of each new policy. Second, to measure interest among the nonvoting population, this project will explore the impact of optional engagement and volunteering opportunities on voluntary petition-signing, public commenting, and other official methods of outreach. To augment the analysis with qualitative insights, a final stage will involve studying existing interviews with local officials, students, and young voters, then conducting new ones. Thus, this project will provide a comprehensive and refined list of improved strategies that can truly engage the youth in civic issues.

BASIS Independent Dublin is a Grades 6 – 12 private school, providing students with an internationally benchmarked liberal arts and sciences curriculum, with advanced STEM offerings. Considering joining the BASIS Independent Dublin community? To join our interest list for the next school year and receive admissions updates and more, please click here.