Hackley’s Science Department has tailored its course options to offer a large number of classes so that each student can pursue a path in the sciences which is best for them and also piques their interest. One of the newest options for Hackley students is the Independent Research Program, taught by science teacher Dr. Andrew Ying, and now in its first year.

The program offers students who are extremely interested in science, and even a specific field, the opportunity to pursue science research at a very high level. “I thought this would be a great way to get them (students) involved in currently what is happening in a field they are interested in, and hopefully be able to participate,” said Dr. Ying about the program.

The program is a major class which meets six out of the seven days of the cycle, and runs from sophomore to senior year. The class currently has four sophomore students enrolled: Vinay Bijoor, Sean Malcolm, Samhitha Josyula, and Connor Larson.

The main focus of the first year of the program for the students, is learning about their topic by reading published papers which have been peer reviewed by scientists. By reading these papers, the students learn vital information about their field, but also decide what they want to focus on as they continue their research. For example, Vinay, who is studying multiple sclerosis, and Samhitha, studying brain tumors, have decided to focus their research on the drugs and therapies in their fields.  Sean Malcolm, who is studying fusion and plasma physics, said, “My favorite part of this program is that it is very relaxed and you can decide what path you want to choose, but it also brings about the challenge that it is very hard to make a decision that you must stick with for 3 years.”