"To find yourself, think for yourself."

Youth are struggling in core competencies as well as mental health, as evidenced by declining scores and startling health data. Not surprisingly, college professors and employers have noted declines in social, academic, and professional skills in the younger generations. Luckily, students don't have to wait for education systems to change!

A number of innovative companies, like HoistPoint, are blossoming to help reign in an Education Renaissance, one reason for the surge in e-learning around the world. However, at HoistPoint, we believe each student should live their personal legend, or calling. We help propel leaders to their personal legends by strategically addressing the gaps in modern education. HoistPoint's holistic approach mixes classical with modern education to not only fill the gaps, but to develop wise, articulate, and empathetic leaders through this Education Renaissance. 

The ability to speak well and the ability to think critically are two of the most important ingredients of personal and professional success. Students can best learn how to do both by revisiting the great orators and philosophers of the past. Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher, created Socratic discussions as a method of teaching through dialogue, where the core principle is to stimulate critical thinking and uncover deeper truths by asking probing questions that challenge assumptions and encourage self-reflection. 

Socratic discussions are not about defeating your opponent or winning the argument; rather, they are about pursuing deeper understanding through questioning, dialogue, and critical examination of beliefs. By focusing on reasoning, mutual respect, and a shared desire to uncover truth, Socratic discussions create an environment where ideas can evolve and participants are encouraged to think critically and examine their assumptions. Whether used in philosophy, education, or even in the workplace, the Socratic method fosters empathy, articulation, critical thinking, intellectual humility, and the pursuit of knowledge.

In this 4 Month Workshop, students will:

• Develop Critical Thinking: Learn to think logically, analyze ideas, and recognize assumptions.  
• Enhance Communication Skills: Practice articulating thoughts clearly and listening to others with empathy.  
• Strengthen Problem-Solving Abilities: Explore complex issues from multiple viewpoints to find innovative solutions.  
• Foster Intellectual Independence: Gain confidence in forming and defending ideas with logic, curiosity, and respect. 
• Encourage Open-Mindedness: Understand diverse perspectives, and learn the value of thoughtful dialogue.
• Promote Intellectual Curiosity and a Love of Learning: Understand the importance and power of curiosity, and how it can fuel a lifelong love of learning. 

Each cohort will meet weekly for 90-minute live discussions in groups of no more than 20 students for a total of 16 sessions. Spaces are limited, and participation is by application only.

Cohorts (ages 7-25): 

- 7-10  

- 11-15  

- 15-18  

- 19-25  

If you or your student want to join HoistPoint's Socratic Discussion Workshop, apply below! You can fill out the comment section or upload a Word or PDF document with additional information. For the best chances of acceptance, the student can submit a writing sample in the "Attach Additional Information" section. The sample can be on any topic the student wishes, as long as it does not contain explicit content.

If accepted, students and parents will receive more information about the program structure and receive a video introduction from the instructor. The price for the 16-session workshop is $600, the equivalent of $37.50/session. Students of this workshop will receive priority and discounts on upcoming workshops, including writing, public speaking, career selection, and more. Students will also receive a discount on HoistPoint's Leaders to Legends Program, an online course designed to teach practical skills and wisdom to youth so they may become wise leaders who lead healthy, fulfilling, and successful lives to the benefit of themselves and the world. 

Permission from a parent or guardian is required for students under age 18.