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Practicum

In Practicum, students explore ideas and passions through personalized, independent study.

Whether investigating emergency medicine, exploring a career path in architecture or law, teaching literacy, learning how to fence, or continuing an athletic pursuit not offered in the athletic program at Emma, Practicum serves a wide variety of interests and levels of expertise. Students partner with mentors, faculty advisors, coaches, peers, alumnae, and others to guide their learning through hands-on experiences on and off campus.

Interested in more information about Practicum? Contact:

Bridget McGivern

Bridget McGivern

Director of Practicum, JV Crew Coach, 11th Grade Class Dean
Students and a teacher sitting smiling as they work on yarn projects.
The Experiential Learning Department: Personalizing Learning

Emma Willard School delivers personalized learning in many ways. Class sizes are small, allowing for the kind of individual attention that is challenging in other settings. Students are empowered to engage and advocate for themselves, making the most of their educational experience. The school also offers many special programs which tap into the unique skills and talents of both teachers and students.

Ava and her second place ribbon
Ava O. ’24 Earns Honors in Kentucky

Practicum equestrian Ava O. ’24 placed 2nd in the Vitalize 1.3m Final at the prestigious Splitrock Horse Show at the Kentucky Horse Park earlier this month. Congrats to Ava and her horse Ultimo Des Natices Z!

students in athletic uniforms waving pom poms
Spring Pep Rally

We started our week with a rousing pep rally introducing this spring’s athletic teams and Practicum athletes. 

Ava O. ’25 earlier this month on her new mount Colombia de Beaufour
Practicum Equestrians Take Center Stage

Dedication is a mandatory requirement for any athletic endeavor, but for equestrians there are unique challenges presented in a sport with equine teammates. Practicum, Emma Willard School’s independent study program, eliminates the hurdles riders face, allowing them to participate in the sport they love. Practicum equestrians Ava O. ’25, Caroline G. ’23, and Isa J. ’23, reflect on their time with the program.

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