Panther Creek has always prided themselves on the variety of CTE classes offered to students. One of the new classes that’s currently being tested, is the Technology Advanced Studies class taught by Ms. Taweel. This class is different than your traditional CTE class, where as there are only three students in it, and they sit in the back of a Game Art and Design class. They’re given assignments by the vice principals to make graphic designs for the school. PCNN conducted an interview with senior Kaitlyn Bajackian and asked her what it’s like being in an experimental class.

PCNN: So what do you do exactly? 

Kaitlyn: Basically the class is available for kids who maxed out [all CTE classes] and want to go above and beyond. This is the first time we’ve done this (which I just think is neat that I was the first) and since graphics is what I want to do, this class was a way for me to build a portfolio together. The best way to build a portfolio is to get jobs to do. So I kind of became PC’s first freelancer. Kind of a win win for everyone though, since they needed graphics to be done, like making posters or banners, and I needed the professional experience.

PCNN: Can you explain what you mean when you say that the class is for students who’ve “maxed out”?

Kaitlyn: It depends on the student. Like, the other two kids who are working on TSA projects are more focused on 3D so they must’ve maxed out on all of the 3D design classes PC offered. Meanwhile I’ve taken all of the 2D and 3D graphic classes that we have here, with the exception of Digital Media II since I got it for second semester. It also depends on the teachers, since they are the ones who decide if you’re dedicated enough to take Technology Advanced Studies.

PCNN:What’s it like being in that class? What kind of experience have you had?

Kaitlyn: This class has been helpful to me in so many ways. I mean I got to experience what it would be like in the field, almost like a mini trial run! I got to experience what it’s like when a client gives you job. It felt different than just a normal school assignment even though it was still a class. I ran into some issues and technical difficulties with some things. But it was good that I did, because I learned from those things and those mistakes. Even though some were just as simple as making sure you finish a little bit earlier than the deadline when you print things because sometimes printers don’t cooperate like you want them to. I got to know the experience of communicating with clients and discussing what they wanted and how they wanted things. I got to build my skills and put them into a more professional use. I liked doing projects that would be somewhat similar to projects I’d get when I am actually out in the field. I’m just very happy I was in this class because I really felt like I learned a lot. It also gave me some much needed confidence that I could really do this. I’m kind of sad that it’s over for me, but I hope that other people will be able to get the opportunity I did though, because it really was an experience I’m not going to forget.

Kaitlyn may be the pioneer of a new age at Panther Creek. An age that allows students who are dedicated enough, to get a head start on their dreams and aspirations. It gives high school students, who may often feel the pressure of deciding their future at a young age, to get the practice and the experience they may need before they know what field they want to be in. There’s a Sports Medical class and a class for Yearbook, Technology Advanced Studies the elective needed for students who are considering a career in Digital Media/Graphic Design.