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Capstone Information and Resources

Tips for Connecting

Make Connections with Experts or Organizations

Many Capstone projects can benefit from connections made with experts or organizations related to your project.

You may want to make outside connections to give you feedback or guidance during the project, for collaboration, to find opportunities for work or internships, to interview, or maybe something else creative and interesting.

When making these connections, there are several considerations to keep in mind. 

 

Connecting With Others

When it is time to reach out to experts or organizations related to your cause, keep the following in mind: 

  • Use the "Connect with Organizations" page on this guide to identify potential contacts.
  • Google your issue to find other organizations who are doing work that interests you.
  • Find university programs related to your topic. Professors and grad students at universities are often happy to answer questions and serve as an expert for student projects. 
  • Cast a wide net. You are more likely to find success if you contact many people or organizations.

In your initial email, make sure that you.

  • Include a polite greeting
  • Introduce yourself, a student at Shrewsbury High School
  • Explain your project (if applicable)
  • Make your request
  • Thank them for their time and consideration
  • Sign the email with your first and last name.

Consult the following tabs for more specific email etiquette. 

 

If you are reaching out to an organization to discuss volunteer opportunities, use the following email as a template. 

Hello,

My name is __________, and I am a (Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior, Senior) at Shrewsbury High School (in Massachusetts, if they are not in the area). I am interested in volunteer opportunities at _____________ (name of organization).

(Discuss interest and/or availability)

Please let me know if there are any available opportunities. 

Thank you,

(First and Last Name)

(Phone Number)

If you are reaching out to an individual or organization to request their expertise, use the following email as a template. 

Hello,

My name is __________, and I am a (Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior, Senior) at Shrewsbury High School (in Massachusetts, if they are not in the area). (Include group member names if you are in a group).  I am (we are) currently working on a project about ______________ (Brief description of your project). 

I am (we are) writing to you because ________________ (Reason that their expertise may of use to you) 

Examples: I am writing to you because of your work with children who struggle with poverty. OR I am writing to you because your organization supports efforts to address climate change. 

I (we) would like to connect to discuss our project and get your ideas or feedback. Are you (or someone in your organization) available to ________ (way you would like to connect)

Examples: Are you available to answer some questions over email? Are you available to speak over the phone (or connect through a video chat)?

If you are unavailable, do you know of anyone else who may be able to answer some questions and offer feedback?

Thank you very much for your time.

Sincerely 

(First and Last name of group members)

Find Connections

To find experts in a field of interest, I suggest consider to search the following:

  • Local businesses that may include people related to your field of interest
  • Universities with degrees or programs related to your topic
    • Graduate students and professors are often good connections
  • Professional organizations
    • People who volunteer for or work with their professional organization often are passionate about their careers or expertise and are happy to share
  • Individuals or organizations who have published content related to your topic (websites, books, articles, social media, documentaries, etc.)

It is not necessary to only connect with local people and organizations. With email and video chat, you can often have a meaningful connection without distance as a factor.

*It does not have to be a direct connection to your field of study for Capstone. Often people who are experts in a field next to your topic may have a lot of insight for you.

 

Social Media and Civic Action

Social Media can be a powerful tool in civic action. You can use it to:

  • Connect with organizations and individuals who are working toward the same goals
  • Connect with others (or bring attention to your cause) through hash tags
  • Be a part of a larger conversation about the issue. 

Many have successfully used social media in the past to bring attention to their cause. The students from Stoneman Douglas High School expertly leveraged social media and ignited the #NeverAgain movement. Read more about how the students used social media here. 

BUT....

There are definite drawbacks to social media. 

When connecting with others on social media please: 

And, if you are unsure or uncomfortable, check in with your teacher or another trusted adult.

Email Etiquette