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The Stone Independent Blog

Latest Stories About the Stone Community

Meet the Pioneers!

It’s hard for us to believe it, but it’s true: the Class of 2021 is only a few weeks away from graduating! We call The Class of ‘21 our “Pioneer Class” because they were with us on our very first day of school ever and because they have witnessed every stage of Stone’s development alongside us. Over the next three weeks, we will be spotlighting students from the Class of ‘21 — from the “original” Pioneers who were with us on our very first day right through to the Pioneers who joined us this August!

Alex B, The School of Architecture at Syracuse University

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Where are you headed next Fall?  I’m heading to Syracuse University for their five year Bachelor’s in Architecture program.

What’s a project you feel particularly proud of from your time here at Stone?   “Introduction To The Beat Generation” was easily the most rigorous and impactful class I have experienced in my entire educational career. It was an incredibly demanding class that culminated in a 13 day, 7600 mile van trip from Lancaster to San Francisco and back, a trip in which we worked hard to explore “the real America”.  I grew so much during that trip, and as my final project for the class I designed and created a 150 page coffee table book about entropy and our innate attraction to abandoned buildings.

What accomplishment are you most proud of from your time here at Stone?  This winter, I achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. This is the highest honor in scouting and something I have been working towards since I joined the program all the way back in 1st grade. Less than 3% of scouts reach this rank, and I feel so proud of myself both for the hard work as well for the commitment to that work over time.

What advice do you have for students just beginning here at Stone?  Be independent, be yourself, and get out there. Stone is a place that rewards those who take their education into their own hands. Talk to your teachers about what directions you want your learning to go, join a club, and create the kind of program you want to see. This school really rewards students who try, who want to take on new challenges, who want to grow. 

And, just for fun: what’s one song which best exemplifies your time here at Stone?  Walk On The Wild Side, by Lou Reed.

Curious about where Stone students go after graduation? Be sure to check out our full list of college and universities accepting Stone students! And if you’re ready to schedule your private tour, let us know right here today!

Mike Simpson