Introduction
Students will delve into an enthralling topic – whether it’s an influential individual, a fascinating group, an intriguing location, a thought-provoking idea, or a pressing issue. Through meticulous research, they will amass both primary and secondary sources, crafting a unique perspective that illuminates the subject’s profound impact on the community and the world at large.The research-based paper from the English class will serve as the foundation for a captivating magazine article in the Design class. Additionally, students will create a multimedia experience, encompassing a film, a commercial, and a website, all centered around their chosen subject.This interdisciplinary unit emphasizes the art of narrative-style journalism, allowing students to weave compelling stories that engage and inform their audience.
My vision was to inspire students to explore the realms of business, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy through this immersive project. By delving into the stories of successful entrepreneurs, innovative companies, and impactful philanthropic initiatives, I aimed to ignite a passion for creating positive change and making a meaningful difference. Ultimately, my goal was to empower the next generation to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, cultivate a spirit of giving back, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
Design Class Production
In my design class, I channeled my creativity and design skills to craft a visually stunning book as part of the documentary project. Utilizing a combination of captivating imagery, thoughtful layout, and compelling narratives, I curated a comprehensive and engaging publication that brought my chosen subject to life. The book served as a tangible representation of the extensive research and storytelling efforts that went into this multifaceted project, encapsulating the essence of my documentary in a tactile and enduring format.
Digital Media Production
Interviewee Bio
Sudhir Pendse, a self-made entrepreneur from Silicon Valley, is the founder of SimpleSoft, a successful software business. Born with a rebellious spirit, Sudhir channeled his desire for independence into his work, leading him from an entry-level job as an independent consultant to creating his own company. His journey is not only about business success, but also about the close relationship between personality and career, and the importance of adapting to an ever-changing environment. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Sudhir is also deeply involved in community philanthropy, particularly in addressing food insecurity and financial instability during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflection
This interdisciplinary project that seamlessly integrated English, Digital Media, and my Elective Class was an incredibly enriching experience. I valued the opportunity to explore a topic that genuinely resonated with me, allowing me to delve deep into the realms of business, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Through meticulous research and creative expression across various mediums, I gained a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling in shaping perspectives and inspiring action.
My biggest takeaway from this project was the realization that every individual has the potential to create positive change, regardless of their background or circumstances. By uncovering the stories of visionary entrepreneurs and philanthropists, I was reminded of the transformative impact that passion, perseverance, and a genuine desire to make a difference can have on our world. I am immensely proud of the multimedia elements I created, which not only showcased my technical skills but also allowed me to convey complex ideas and narratives in an engaging and accessible manner. This project has ignited within me a deep-rooted drive to continue exploring innovative ways to contribute to society, whether through entrepreneurial ventures or philanthropic endeavors.
Thank You
For the past several months, all of the juniors in Freestyle have been working on the Documentary. This project was challenging at times, but it was worth the effort to see my entire project laid out in Indesign and have all the pages complete. I want to thank Sudhir Pendse first for letting me learn about him and his journey as my subject. His story deserves to be told, and I am incredibly fortunate to be able to do so. Second, I would like to thank my Freestyle teachers for all the hard work and extra hours they have put in over the last couple of months to help us students succeed. They work relentlessly, sometimes until 6 pm on days, to ensure we have the best conditions to create quality work that we can be proud of. Finally, I would like to thank my family, who encouraged me to be the best version of myself every day.