On May 12, members of the Class of 2025 began their graduation projects. These projects allow Sixth Formers to explore their interests through hands-on experiences across three weeks. Students have engaged in a large variety of projects: internships, research, and creative and technical endeavors.
Some Sixth Formers are working in groups, with larger groups such as the Casertano’s Culinary Crew project consisting of Sixth Formers Finn Kelly, Michael Crutchlow, Josh Williams, and Elliot Lee, and smaller groups like that of Sixth Formers Aaron Bonaparte and Luke Ganley who are producing a documentary in the development of the OBSESSED magazine.
“Projects should be an opportunity for students to explore an interest.”
Mr. Matt Ator
Math Teacher Mr. Matt Ator has been the project facilitator for the past two years.
“Projects should be an opportunity for students to explore an interest, whether it’s something they enjoy doing as a hobby or something they want to do professionally,” Mr. Ator said. “They are taking a three-week period to focus intensely on something that hopefully is something they are passionate about.”
Graduation projects offer a unique opportunity to step beyond the classroom and gain real-world experience in fields that interest them. Students can shape their own paths and immerse themselves in something they are passionate about.
“It’s easy to pick something that seems fun, but you are putting a lot of time into it, so you really need to get to know it,” Mr. Ator said. “If your project is something that you just want to try, then it won’t work very well. If it is something that you know well and are able to continue to enjoy doing 30 hours a week, then it is a good choice.”
The three weeks allow students to fully dedicate themselves to an interest rarely available in traditional academic settings. Sixth Former Milan Varma is interning at a private equity firm called Hullson Partners, which is run by a Haverford alumnus. Varma has been able to learn much about the field and has deeply enjoyed the experience.
“This has been a great exposure for me,” Varma said. “I’ve been able to listen in on a few calls, review their work, ask them questions, and study up on finance and accounting overall.”
“An internship is only an email away.”
Ayush Varma ’27
Varma believes that internships are out there and available to students.
“An internship is only an email away. Never hesitate to reach out to Haverford graduates or even kids from your grade or beyond,” Varma said. “Reach out, be genuine, and something will come about.”
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