Curriculum

Applicants must have a 3.5 GPA and completed all requirements for graduation except English and Math. The program is a two-semester program during the senior year of high school, that offers 2 honors internship credits. Students may enroll in up to four (4) classes, block scheduled in the morning at their home school and still participate.

All applicants will be required to register for a regular class schedule since participation in this program is limited. If selected, students will eliminate classes after the fourth period. While applications are accepted from students in the sciences, selection preference is given to humanities students.

The curriculum content is comparable to many college courses. The Harvard case study approach is used in the seminars and includes such topics as workplace leadership, diversity, global affairs, conflict resolution, and business ethics. In addition to the seminars and 300 hours of internship per semester, there are extensive research and writing assignments reinforcing work experience and seminar topics.

SLP seminars are scheduled weekly and are developed to study and apply the theories and techniques of leadership and group processes. Students gain leadership skills and experience with applications in a group setting. Students apply theories and techniques of leadership and group processes.

Selected compilation readings are provided for preparation prior to the seminars to aid in the understanding of lectures and discussion. Questions from the required readings may be included in discussions. Supplemental readings will be made available if applicable. Such readings may be valuable for future reference. Self-quizzes will be included and case studies will be conducted during the seminars. Required textbook is The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People and Learning to Lead.

Additional requirements include:

• A monthly leadership journal of reflection
• Ten page research thesis on chosen industry
• Small group community service project
• Class business project
• Study of public policy issues through foreign newspapers
• Online discussions through electronic forums

"[SLP] was beneficial in so many ways. First, the internship at NIH was educational and instructive, while giving her an alternative to the traditional classroom setting. By her senior year, this experiential learning was a welcome respite. Second, the weekly workshops...exposed her to effective leadership training and concepts. I see her aptly applying those skills to her life in college and beyond. Third, she met students from nearly every high school in Montgomery County, forging wonderful, close friendships with kids she otherwise would not have met."

- Hannah Zytnick
(parent of Deena Zytnick '03)