Senior Seminar

All seniors at Watkinson School take Senior Seminar, a year-long course designed to help students become novice experts in areas of personal interest, passion, and curiosity that extend beyond their typical academic experience. The process begins with the development of an initial essential question, which guides extensive research and deeper exploration of the topic. Students then engage in a two-week release period from regular classes to gain hands-on, real-world experience connected to their project. Throughout the year, they apply what they have learned to create a final product that reflects both their knowledge and growth. The experience culminates in the Senior Exhibition, where students present their work publicly and showcase the learning they have developed over the course of the year.

How does the combination of music and community in roller skating foster motivation and confidence in developing skaters?

Artist Statement

For my senior project, I chose to explore something that felt exciting to me: roller skating. It is something I had been wanting to learn for a while, and I wanted to push myself to not only improve as a skater, but also understand the role that music and community play in building motivation and confidence. My project is centered around my essential question: how does the combination of music and community in roller skating foster motivation and confidence in developing skaters? To answer this, I created two main products: a video documenting my growth over time and a booklet designed to guide and inform new skaters.

As part of this process, I gathered photos and videos, as well as statements from members of the Hartford Area Roller Derby team about what community means to them. I also attended roller derby practices, where I interviewed skaters and observed how support, encouragement, and shared experiences help build confidence. My video captures my personal progression throughout the year, showing both my challenges and improvements as I practiced skating. In addition, these experiences directly informed my booklet, which includes a beginner's guide to roller skating, an introduction to roller derby, and a curated playlist linked to my Spotify account. The playlist emphasizes the role of music in creating energy, motivation, and a sense of connection while skating.

Through this project, I wanted my audience to see that roller skating is more than just a physical activity---it's an experience shaped by community and self-expression. My goal is for viewers and readers to understand how supportive environments and music can make learning something new feel less intimidating and more enjoyable. Overall, this project reflects both my personal growth and a broader message about the importance of community and motivation in trying new things and building confidence.

Recording of Artist Statement

LISTEN TO MY PLAYLIST!!

VIDEO

BOOKLET