Each year at Stratford, seniors dedicate the final three weeks of the academic year to completing their senior projects. The Senior Project Program is intended to provide students with an introductory experience of the professional world prior to beginning their college careers. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on work within a field of their interest and report daily to an assigned mentor who guides their progress. At the conclusion of the experience, students deliver a formal presentation summarizing their work and reflecting on what they have learned. In many cases, students select a project aligned with their intended college major, which often helps them determine whether that field is a suitable fit.

Chase Crowder, Class of 2025, will be attending the University of North Georgia in the fall, where he plans to major in cybersecurity. For his senior project, Chase chose to explore the field of cybersecurity and information technology, aligning his experience with his intended course of study. He traveled to Orlando, Florida, to complete his project, where he gained valuable hands-on experience. His time in the field affirmed his passion for cybersecurity and solidified his decision to pursue it both academically and professionally.

Sallie Butler, Class of 2025, will be attending the University of Mississippi in the fall. She began her senior project with plans to major in special education. Through her placement at North Macon Preschool, Sallie gained meaningful experience working with young children. Reflecting on her time there, she shared, “I found my time with preschool-age children to be rewarding and enriching. Their innocence and playful spirits brought me a great deal of joy during my senior project.” As a result of this experience, Sallie has decided to shift her academic focus and will now pursue a major in early childhood education.

Senior projects offer students a valuable opportunity to step beyond the classroom and experience the real world in a meaningful way. By working in professional settings aligned with their interests, students gain firsthand insight into potential career paths, develop practical skills, and build confidence in their abilities. These experiences often help clarify their academic and professional goals, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their future. Ultimately, the Senior Project Program equips students with a deeper understanding of the workforce and a stronger sense of direction as they prepare for college and beyond.