Pre-college summer programs have been a popular way for high school students to get a taste of the college experience. The last couple of years were surely a setback for summer schools and pre-college programs, but with things looking steady in most parts of the world, some of the leading programs are back, and better than ever. These programs are also a great opportunity for colleges to create a community of learners, and possibly recruit suitable candidates in the forthcoming admission cycles. Pre-college programs are certainly more immersive than college tours or open days, they allow participating students to take a peek into the life of a college student and interact with faculties at the respective institutions.
There are pre-college programs available across subject domains. From STEM-based programs and performing arts, to business and medicine students are literally spoilt for choice. Each pre-college program is unique in its own way, as the universities offering them have a certain prowess of their own. The main objective behind these programs is to provide an experience to students which allows them to seek beyond academics. These programs are holistically designed and delivered to provide a platform for students to come together and interact. Creation and innovation are fostered through group activities and networking. Some of the students go on to find lifelong friends through these intriguing programs.
Now that we have established how exciting these programs are, let’s have a look at some of the best pre-college/summer programs students must consider for 2022:
1. Brown University
Brown Pre-College Programs are designed for high school students to explore the challenges and opportunities of the college experience. Students enjoy the excitement and responsibility that comes from balancing college-level academics and enriching social activities—without the pressure of formal grades.
In one of their 1- to 6-week online and in-person courses, students get to know the best of Brown. As an Ivy League school known for its community of independent thinkers—one that values and respects student voices.
2. Harvard University
Harvard offers an academically rigorous on-campus program for exceptional high school students. The Harvard Pre-College Program is exclusively on campus and offers over 100 courses. Students thrive in a dynamic, immersive and supportive academic environment alongside peers from around the world. When class is not in session, students can participate in creative and social activities. Join in co-curricular activities that stimulate your mind. And take time to have fun and get to know their peers.
Whether students are undecided about potential areas of study or want to take a deeper dive into subject they love, the Pre-College Program can help them find what really excites them.
3. Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon’s Pre-College Programs mirror the undergraduate experience, giving rising juniors and seniors the opportunity to explore their interests and passions while receiving instruction from acclaimed Carnegie Mellon faculty and staff. CMU provides a holistic and robust student experience that includes academic and personal development both inside and outside of the classroom in order to prepare students for the future.
4. New York University
The six-week Pre-College program for credit has over 30 academic options depending on interest. This is one of the most challenging and rewarding pre-college programs in the U.S., with all that NYC and NYU offer. The Tisch School of the Arts is a four-week residential program for credit for aspiring musicians and artists. If a shorter, more cost-effective, non-credit option is desirable the NYU STEP (Science and Technology Entry Program) could be a great choice. Another option is the Urban Journalism Workshop, a 10-day boot camp for writers at no cost. For young, motivated ladies, the non-credit STEM program is rigorous and rewarding. These and more could be worth exploring for choice, flexibility, and individuality in summer choices in one of the greatest cities in the world.
5. Northwestern University
Northwestern University offers the Center for Talent Development’s Equinox program every summer, which provides rigorous acceleration opportunities for academically gifted and talented students completing grades nine through 12. Studying at a world-class university in challenging courses, participating in recreational activities and social events with friends, and developing the self-confidence and self-directed learning skills crucial to success in college is central part of the Equinox experience. Programs are available both for students who are residents or commuters. Sessions last one to three weeks and students can apply for one, two or three sessions, depending on the program. Equinox courses are taught at the high school honours level, the Advanced Placement level, or the college level by master instructors. Each course carries one or two semesters of high school credit upon successful completion. The Equinox program is just one of the extensive summer programs offered through Northwestern University’s Center for Talent and Development. These summer programs for gifted students provide life-changing experiences for kids of all ages, from early childhood through high school.
6. Yale University
Yale Young Global Scholars is an unparalleled academic and leadership program at Yale University, founded on the tenets of liberal arts, renowned for its diverse and inclusive community, and committed to increasing education access. Yale Young Global Scholars empowers the next generation of leaders by building a global community and designing interdisciplinary programs that foster intellectual curiosity, deepen understanding and inspire creative action across all borders. The curriculum is highly collaborative, exposing participants to innovative topics while facilitating student discussions shaped by international perspectives. Students have the opportunity to participate in a STEM, social sciences, humanities, or cross-disciplinary track.
Conclusion
Pre-college summer programs are about giving high school students a meaningful, maybe even life-changing experience. It is time for students to go out of their comfort zone, and collaborate with people carrying varied perspectives. If you are still wondering and need further guidance through the application process to these pre-college programs, our team of expert coaches at Mindler is always there to help.
