ASMSA Viewbook 2020

IGNITE YOUR CURIOSITY AT ARKANSAS’ PREMIER PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL

WHAT IS ASMSA? ASMSA is a public residential high school where Arkansas’ most promising young minds live together, learn together, and grow together.

The Arkansas School for Mathematics, Sciences, and the Arts is a campus of the University of Arkansas System serving academically and artistically motivated students of all backgrounds from throughout the state. ASMSA is the only school of its kind in Arkansas, and one of only 17 public residential high schools in the nation. ASMSA’s community of learning exemplifies excellence across disciplines while serving as a statewide center of academic equity and opportunity that ignites the full potential of Arkansas’ students and educators.

Connect with ASMSA on social media @ARMathSciArts.

ASMSA IS A CAMPUS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS SYSTEM. IS IT A COLLEGE OR A HIGH SCHOOL?

ASMSA combines the best parts of both high school and college into one unique program.

You will live on campus and take college-level classes alongside motivated peers from across Arkansas. Our instructors have credentials to teach at the collegiate level, which means they hold at least a Master’s degree in their field. You’ll receive the guidance, support, and supervision associated with high school while enjoying the academic rigor, course options, research experiences, and independence that come through university study.

asmsa.org/ignite

WHAT ARE ACADEMICS LIKE AT ASMSA?

ASMSA offers a dynamic range of courses that will allow you to explore new ideas, cultivate your curiosity, and further develop your passion for learning. Both the breadth and depth of classes available at ASMSA are second to none. All classes are taught at the college level with nearly 70 courses available for university credit. Through ASMSA’s “college bridge” program, students earn an average of 50 hours of university credit by the time they finish high school. This allows many of our graduates to begin college as sophomores and save thousands of dollars in tuition and other fees.

ASMSA families can save $14,000 in college tuition.

WHAT COURSES ARE OFFERED?

Nearly 100 courses across a variety of disciplines are available on our campus.

Broad topic categories include mathematics, physics, computer science, biology, chemistry, geoscience, engineering, studio arts, digital arts, music, literature, global languages, social sciences, and history.

You can explore a wide range of subjects or choose to dive deep into a particular field of interest. ASMSA offers curricula that go beyond what is available at other high schools in the state: from rarely offered topics such as entrepreneurship and environmental science to advanced coursework in computer programming and a dozen literature electives. Prior experience is not required to explore across disciplines.

Students take an average of three college-credit classes each semester.

WHAT KIND OF ELECTIVES CAN I TAKE?

Our faculty are proud to offer a variety of upper level electives from which students can choose, including but not limited to: Genetics, Zoology, Astrophysics, Astronomy, Oceanography, Differential Equations, Number Theory, 2D/3D Art, Ceramics, Ancient Greek Literature, Gender and Literature, Creative Writing, and many more.

ASMSA is committed to interdisciplinary learning where students are able to analyze a single topic from multiple disciplines and perspectives. Examples of these team-taught courses include Time Travel (physics and literature), Folk Music & Acoustics (music, woodworking, and physics), African-American Literature (literature and sociology), and Infectious Diseases (biology and history).

1 in 4 students join the ASMSA Wind Ensemble.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY AT ASMSA LOOK LIKE?

We follow a block schedule with courses offered on a semester basis, much like a typical college. Students take five or six courses per semester, using “off� periods to work on assignments or connect with their Student Success Coordinator. A 90-minute break in the middle of the day allows time for lunch as well as to visit instructors for office hours. Study hours take place Sunday through Thursday evenings; tutoring from Peer Mentors is available at this time.

Students enjoy free time each afternoon when classes end. They are able to participate in clubs, sports, and other recreational activities, attend concerts and guest lectures, or simply relax with friends. Residential activities are available in the evenings and on weekends.

WHAT ARE ASMSA’S GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS?

All ASMSA students must complete the Arkansas SMART Core graduation requirements as well as earn a minimum of 30 hours of college credit. Students also complete a two-semester ASMSA Capstone experience that satisfies the research, inquiry, or creative expression requirement.

STUDENTS MUST COMPLETE: • at least one semester of study in biology, chemistry, physics (not physical science), and computer programming; • at least four semesters of a global language; • at least three semesters of English, including Composition I, Composition II, and a selection from the ASMSA literature offerings; and • at least three semesters of math, including a minimum of Bridge to College Algebra, College Algebra, and Trigonometry.

Graduating classes average $13 million in scholarship offers.

WHAT IS A CAPSTONE?

ASMSA students dive deep into a subject they’re passionate about through our Capstone program. ASMSA students complete projects across science, math, arts, humanities, and entrepreneurship; there are a dozen options from which to choose. The opportunity to explore a subject of your choice alongside a faculty expert is the first step in moving from student to scholar. From groundbreaking research in technology, sustainability, and biomedicine to portfolios of original works of art, writing, and music, the only limit to our students’ pursuits is their passion. Students’ Capstone projects are often the heart of their college applications and a springboard to recognition in a variety of state, national, and even international competitions.

asmsa.org/academics/capstone-program

ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES TO STUDY ABROAD?

Our Global Learning Program provides educational travel opportunities that will allow you to learn firsthand about other countries and cultures. When students travel to a foreign country, encounter a different culture, and meet new people, they develop perspective, global awareness, and better critical thinking skills. More than 500 students and faculty have had the chance to study abroad and explore the world over the past several years through our Global Learning Program. Students go to a variety of locations, including those where Japanese, French, and Spanish—the languages we offer at ASMSA —are spoken. ASMSA offers 6 to 10 full need-based scholarships to seniors each year to participate in the Global Learning Program.

asmsa.org/academics/global-learning-program

WHY IS ASMSA A RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL?

ASMSA’s model seeks to ensure young adults are fully prepared—socially, emotionally, and academically—to transition into college and beyond. The residential experience is a key component of students’ preparation. Being a part of our community of talented and motivated students creates extraordinary opportunities to grow not only academically but also as a person while building lifelong friendships. Each of the live-in Residential Experience Coordinators possesses a Master’s degree along with a passion for the field of Student Affairs. Through the Student Development Program, students expand proficiency in the “soft skills” they will need to lead fulfilling lives, including communication skills, conflict resolution, independence, and self-awareness.

All students live on campus.

WHERE WILL I LIVE?

ASMSA will be your home away from home. The state-of-the-art Student Center, completed in 2012, houses students in suitestyle rooms. You will have a roommate and share a bathroom with two additional suitemates. You are able to rearrange the furniture as well as bring decorations and additional furniture to make the space your own. Each floor has a lounge as well as a laundry room.

The Dolphin Bay CafĂŠ is conveniently located within the Student Center. Beginning in 2022, additional housing will be available thanks to a full restoration of an historic building next to the Student Center.

WILL I GET TO GO HOME?

Absolutely! We think it important that our students stay engaged with their home communities. ASMSA ensures you are able to get home at least once a month by creating extended weekends in any month that does not already have a break. ASMSA observes breaks and holidays similar to other public schools.

ASMSA is closed on state recognized holidays (Labor Day, Christmas, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, etc.) as well as for Fall Break, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, Spring Break, and Summer Break. Holidays and extended weekends are listed on the School Calendar.

asmsa.org/student-life/school-calendar asmsa.org/academics/capstone-program

WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL I HAVE LIVING AWAY FROM HOME?

A total of 11 full-time staff members live in the Student Center. They provide daily support and supervision, facilitate programming, and serve as a conduit back to your family, sharing your progress and needs. Two seniors on each floor also serve as Community Leaders who assist new students in integrating into the ASMSA community.

Moving away from home is a big transition. In addition to supportive peers and Residence Life staff, you also have access to a dedicated, licensed professional counselor at no cost.

Having support in times of stress or anxiety is an important resource for all young adults.

All Residential Experience Coordinators have a Master’s degree.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN NOT IN CLASS?

Participate in the various clubs and organizations available to ASMSA students! We have traditional organizations like Student Government Association, National Honor Society, FBLA, Beta Club, and Quiz Bowl. You are also able to develop your own clubs and organizations with peers who share your unique interests. We offer intramural sports and participate in an annual competition with our peer schools. You are also welcome to try out for sports through our partnership with Hot Springs World Class High School.

At the end of your junior year, you will be able to apply for a leadership position for your senior year. Positions include Community Leaders, Student Ambassadors, Admissions Delegates, and Peer Mentors.

ASMSA offers more than 30 student-led clubs.

ASMSA SOUNDS AMAZING! HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO ATTEND?

ASMSA is a state-funded educational program, so you will not pay high school tuition; housing, meals, and textbooks are free to all students as well. These items are covered by the school’s state funding from the Arkansas General Assembly. The annual student assessment is $850 — $350 in a program assessment and $250 each semester for the concurrent credit program.

Financial assistance to cover the student assessments is available for all who qualify through our “upwARd Promise” initiative that ensures ASMSA is affordable for all young Arkansans regardless of income. Personal items, travel, and spending money are the family’s responsibility.

asmsa.org/admissions/upward-promise

DO I QUALIFY TO APPLY?

ASMSA welcomes applications from talented and motivated students in the 9th, 10th, and 11th grades from across Arkansas.

Because we are a publicly funded high school, all ASMSA students are required to be residents of the state of Arkansas.

There are three application pathways with different minimum requirements based on the point of entry to the residential experience.

EARLY ENTRANCE • Apply freshman year for a three-year program of study • 27 ACT composite - 24 subscores in English, Math, and Reading • 3.75 unweighted GPA

STANDARD ADMISSION • Apply sophomore year for a two-year program of study • 19 ACT composite - 19 subscores in English, Math, and Reading • 3.25 unweighted GPA

SUPER JUNIOR • Apply junior year for a two-year program of study • 25 ACT composite - 23 subscores in English, Math, and Reading • 3.5 unweighted GPA

DO ONLY GENIUSES GET INTO ASMSA? Innate talent is only part of the equation.

ASMSA takes a multifaceted approach when evaluating whether an applicant would be a good fit for ASMSA’s community of learning.

This includes both academic considerations (partially evaluated through GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and rigor of course of study from the sending high school) as well as personal characteristics (partially evaluated through teacher recommendations, essay questions, and disciplinary record).

SO WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR IN AN APPLICANT? Curiosity. Maturity. Drive. ASMSA is for those who are willing to work hard and take risks.

Our students compete and place at the International Science and Engineering Fair, win art competitions, swim with manatees in Central America, and so much more. If learning by doing is for you, ASMSA is where you can meet your full potential.

asmsa.org/admissions

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO TO APPLY?

Applying to ASMSA is much like applying to college. You will complete an online application that includes your biographical information, extracurricular involvement, and essays. There are recommendation forms to be completed by your current and/or prior teachers, a questionnaire and permission form to be completed by your parent/guardian, and a school discipline and attendance form to be completed by your school counselor. You will also submit your transcript, including fall semester grades and unweighted GPA, along with an ACT or SAT score report. There is no application fee. The only cost you may incur is in taking the ACT or SAT, and we offer ACT vouchers through our “upwARd Promise� to cover that cost.

asmsa.org/admissions/application

HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?

Join us for one of our free admissions events. Our online information sessions on Life and Learning at ASMSA are a great first step. These one-hour sessions take place in the evening, so we hope you and your family will take advantage of this convenient way to learn more about our school from the comfort of your home. Sessions include a presentation as well as the opportunity to chat with current students and admissions staff.

Ready to come visit us? Join us on our campus located in historic downtown Hot Springs for a Preview Day where you’ll learn more through an in-depth presentation, Q&A sessions for both students and adults, and a tour from a current student.

ASMSA staff members also visit schools across the state.

IS THERE A WAY TO EXPERIENCE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE AN ASMSA STUDENT?

Once you begin the application process, we encourage you to participate in a Focus Weekend. Focus Weekends are designed to help applicants connect with faculty and peers in their area of interest while also experiencing life within ASMSA’s residential community of learning. Each Focus Weekend has a workshop-style class in a different academic subject: make sure you pick your favorite! Focus Weekends also include a tour from a current student, an in-depth presentation on Life and Learning at ASMSA, and an opportunity to dine in the Dolphin Bay Café.

visit.asmsa.org

I’M NOT OLD ENOUGH TO APPLY. WHAT IS THERE FOR ME?

If you are a current 8th- or 9th-grade student, you can join us for one of our MASHups. These hands-on workshops cover two topics from different academic areas—Math, Sciences, Arts, and Humanities. Each one is unique, so we encourage you to come to as many as you’d like. MASH-ups take place on Saturday mornings throughout the academic year.

If you are in 7th, 8th, or 9th grade, ask your school to take a free field trip to our campus.

Field trips are always free of cost to the school and include an educational talk or activity, lunch from our Dolphin Bay Café, a tour, and more.

asmsa.org/outreach/mash-ups | asmsa.org/outreach/field-trips

DO YOU HAVE SUMMER PROGRAMS?

Yes! Summer at ASMSA allows motivated ninth-graders to spend an exciting week on our Hot Springs campus where you’ll meet like-minded peers and learn in a fun and challenging atmosphere. Whether you want to study microbes, entrepreneurship, language, painting, or coding, there is something at ASMSA for you.

Selection for all camps is competitive. Applications open in March and will be accepted until all spots are filled. All camp activities — including housing, meals, programming, and supplies — are free. Camps take place in June and July.

asmsa.org/outreach/summer-at-asmsa

ASMSA Admissions 200 Whittington Avenue Hot Springs, AR 71901 Phone: 501.622.5235 Email: admissions@asmsa.org Social: @ARMathSciArts