We had the privilege of interviewing Catherine McMillan and asked for some experience about: The Governor's School of North Carolina
Catherine's qualifications include:
a student at Duke University
a former student at the North Carolina Governor's School
her documentaries were featured in a screening at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
She shares some reflective words:
"Governor’s school allowed me to freely explore topics in the social sciences without the traditional burden of grades."
"It gave me a snapshot of what I think college should look like..."
Q: What motivated you to go to the Governor’s school program?
A: I was drawn to the intellectual experience. Governor’s school allowed me to freely explore topics in the social sciences without the traditional burden of grades. It also gave me an atmosphere of like-minded, curious young people who were dedicated to immersing themselves in learning.
Q: How did you benefit from this program?
A: It gave me a snapshot of what I think college should look like: non-punitive learning, a free space to think, share, and create, and the opportunity to explore ideas to serve a greater purpose. I think there is a lot that universities and colleges can do to cultivate young people to become leaders, and perhaps drawing from these kinds of programs--which are tailored to foster intrinsic motivation--would help to bolster that mission.
Q: Was it your choice or your parent’s choice for you to attend?
A: It was definitely my choice. I’m not sure my parents were even aware of it before I brought it up. I remember going to the information session in the library and then coming home telling my parents that I was going to apply.
See Catherine's LinkedIn account here!