Ask the Experts: Trey Wilson

Q: How does a purpose-driven education benefit students?

“Purpose gives [students] a sense of self-esteem. We have approximately 50 students going out into the community for internships that vary from neurological research to interior design to journalism,” says Trey Wilson, director of strategic partnerships at Laurel School. “None of those endeavors are graded. It’s asking the girls to be collaborative and has adults who bring some expertise to the field that the girls are learning about. We just want them to pursue things outside of the classroom for something more than just a grade. As they take on these endeavors, they have a sense of what they need to be successful in terms of their own personal skills and maturity. That will give a sense of purpose that lasts a lifetime.”