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McLean students explored a broad range of classes and career-focused programs during the school’s annual Electives Fair, getting direct advice before choosing courses for the upcoming year.
Freshmen, sophomores and juniors moved through the gym in three rotations, visiting tables filled with posters, images and course descriptions. Teachers and current students represented fine arts, social studies, academy programs and other departments.
For many underclassmen, the fair offered their first comprehensive look at McLean’s electives.
“It’s great for the underclassmen, especially freshmen,” social studies teacher Annie Daggett said. “They don’t always know what’s available at the school other than word of mouth, so being able to physically see the options and talk directly to teachers makes a big difference.”
Daggett represented AP African American Studies, which has attracted growing interest across several grade levels.
Current students also answered questions about course content and the classroom experience. Freshman Leah Stearns promoted Film Study, a class she currently takes.
“It’s really nice to be able to influence people to join because I found it a very fun class and I want other people to experience that too,” Stearns said. “A lot of theater kids have been interested, but also people who just want a chill elective.”
Some students used the event to survey future possibilities rather than select a particular class immediately.
“The event gives you an idea of what’s to come,” freshman Elizabeth Polizzi said. “There are so many AP classes, and it’s kind of overwhelming, but I found it helpful to see just what’s available.”
Teachers fielded questions about preparation, subject matter and workload. Social studies teacher Ryan Abrams, representing AP Macroeconomics and Microeconomics, said students were also considering whether the class could be their first Advanced Placement course.
“I saw a lot of former students and freshmen who were curious,” Abrams said. “They were asking what the workload is like, what topics we cover and whether it might be their first Advanced Placement course. That genuine interest is the best part.”
Abrams said recommendations from students who have taken the course have helped generate more interest.
The fair extended beyond electives offered inside McLean. Students also learned about academy courses and specialty programs available throughout Fairfax County, including options that can lead to professional certifications and scholarship opportunities after graduation.
“The Electives Fair is an important way to expose students to career-focused pathways,” said Sean McCourt, an Academy Council representative from Chantilly. “This is my favorite time of the school year—helping students think about their next step and whether a class might help them in the future.”