SUMMER PROGRAMS PRE-COLLEGE
Finding your true self: When summer breaks the mold WHAT
'S INSIDE
AND
How to select the right pre-college summer enrichment program
DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE THIS SUMMER
or nearly 60 years, Summer Discovery has continually redefined the potential of a transformative summer. As the #1 pre-college enrichment program recommended by high school college counselors, we’ve built our reputation on a simple but powerful belief that students shouldn’t have to choose between serious academic achievement and unforgettable life experiences. At Summer Discovery, you get both: rigorous intellectual challenge balanced with exploration, growth, and the kind of summer memories that last a lifetime.
What sets us apart is the depth and authenticity of our university partnerships. We’ve cultivated deep, meaningful relationships with prestigious Ivy League institutions, top public universities, and world-renowned business schools. These partnerships are true collaborations where university faculty design curricula, teach courses, and open doors to state-of-the-art laboratories, maker spaces, and facilities typically reserved for enrolled students.
Our programs offered through Oxford Summer Courses embrace the renowned Oxford and Cambridge tutorial system — an intimate educational approach featuring small class sizes and expert instruction. This method, perfected over eight centuries, emphasizes personalized attention and intellectual engagement that evolves student thinking and learning.
Our 300+ courses span medicine, business, law, psychology, engineering, arts, humanities, and STEM. Because we know that building confidence, critical thinking, self-advocacy, and meaningful connections matter as much as academic content, our programs emphasize holistic enrichment to develop the entire student.
Students don’t just study business — they develop business plans and pitch ideas. They don’t just read about law — they participate in mock trials.
Medical courses involve laboratory simulations, dissections, and anatomical study. Engineering students design and build prototypes. Computer science classes build functional programs and applications. We’ve built our curriculum on the principle that students learn best by doing.
This active engagement extends beyond coursework into real-world discovery, where students explore vibrant cities — Nashville’s music culture, Los Angeles’s entertainment industry, Philadelphia’s historic sites, or Oxford’s architectural marvels. Summer Discovery students live in university residence halls, navigate campus life, build friendships, and gain glimpses into their potential futures.
Our selective programs attract motivated, academically driven students ready to push boundaries and explore passions. Whether you’re preparing for Ivy League applications, testing potential career paths, or getting granular about subjects that ignite your curiosity, you’ll find courses that challenge your thinking and build the confidence you need to excel in college.
Because we understand what tomorrow’s leaders need, we refresh our offerings each year to add cutting-edge courses in emerging fields that deliver tangible results:
• Strengthened college applications.
• Certificates of completion.
• Letters of recognition.
• Clarity about your future direction and the confidence to pursue it.
As the industry trailblazer, Summer Discovery has refined the perfect fusion of academic rigor and transformative social experience. We’ve learned what works thanks to feedback from generations of students who call it “the best summer ever” — not because they chose between learning and adventure, but because they discovered both. Your future awaits. Come discover what’s possible.
HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
ach year, as the end of the school year looms, high schoolers and their parents face a common challenge: making the most of summer break. Perhaps you’ve heard of pre-college summer programs, but what are they, exactly?
Simply put, a pre-college program is a short, intensive experience, often hosted on a university campus, that allows a high school student to “test drive” college life. You might live in a dorm, take classes taught by university faculty, or focus on a specific career (like engineering or filmmaking). These programs offer a sneak peek into the academic rigor and independence of higher education. They’re designed to help teens discover a new interest, confirm a potential major, and gain the skills necessary for a successful transition to college.
But here’s the challenge: hundreds of pre-college summer programs exist throughout the country, and some companies offering these programs may even share the same campus. For example, Brown, Columbia, Harvard, and Stanford host a variety of academic and enrichment opportunities. So do Boston University, Johns Hopkins, and Carnegie Mellon.
So, how can you decide which is the right fit for you? You should start by looking under the “hood” because each program is different, and those differences can impact your experience. The key? Identifying those distinctions and asking the right questions to find the perfect fit for your goals and interests.
UNDERSTANDING TRUE UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP
Multiple companies may offer summer programs on the same college campus, but appearances can be deceiving. What is the actual extent of the university’s involvement? Some programs merely rent dormitory space while running independent operations (think: summer camps hosted on a college campus).
True university partnerships run deeper. With these partnerships, universities help hand-select and hire instructors, and develop the curriculum. They provide exclusive access to specialized facilities like research labs, sports facilities, recreational areas, and maker spaces. Without genuine integration between a university and a pre-college program provider, these premium resources
remain off-limits. The most authentic experiences come from programs with well-established university partnerships.
University partners also help support unique opportunities in the local market not available to just anyone: behind-the-scenes access to entertainment venues, corporate headquarters tours, guest lectures from industry leaders, and experiences typically closed to the public.
SAFETY AND SUPERVISION MATTER
Before committing, ask about staff-to-student ratios and safety protocols.
• What supervision is provided during evening hours?
• How are medical emergencies handled?
• What are the policies for campus mobility and off-campus activities?
• Who can students contact 24/7 if issues arise?
• What are the protocols for international students travelling for their program?
• The answers reveal how seriously a program takes student wellbeing and parental peace of mind.
GET SPECIFIC ABOUT “EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING”
The best summer enrichment programs offer students a summer of “firsts” — their first mock trial, first attempt at suturing, first robotics programming session, or first formal debate. However, many programs also refer to the term “hands-on learning” without defining it.
Legitimate hands-on learning means learning by doing: tangible, concrete activities that move a student from theory to practice. It’s the difference between hearing about a skill and actually performing it.
Ask for specific, detailed examples and probe how deep the experiential learning goes. Find out what your child will actually be doing.
• Are students working with actual medical equipment in medical facilities and practicing
procedures on simulation models in a medicine and healthcare program?
• Are students participating in mock trials with real courtroom protocols in a law program?
• Are students dissecting and using actual brain imaging technology in a neuroscience program?
Students should be doing and having those handson experiences. The goal of these programs is to help your child discover their passions and preferences. After all, learning what you dislike is just as valuable as confirming a career path.
BALANCE IS EVERYTHING
Here’s a crucial question many families forget to ask: How does your program integrate learning with fun? Many programs are either entirely academic or purely recreational. The magic happens when intellectual challenge seamlessly blends with adventure, friendship, and memorable experiences.
Ask to see sample daily and weekly schedules. Does the program include social activities, campus exploration, and free time in addition to its rigorous academics? Remember, there are only a finite number of summers in a young person’s life; the best programs honor both academic growth and the joy of summer.
DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE
Before making your final decision, compare programs systematically. Create a checklist of your must-haves and deal-breakers. Ask detailed questions; reputable programs will welcome your thoroughness and provide transparent answers.
The right program should offer authentic university partnerships, safety protocols, hands-on learning experiences, and a perfect balance of academic rigor and summer fun. Summer Discovery — with nearly 60 years of experience and established relationships with top universities — checks all these boxes, ensuring students get the most authentic college preview possible while creating memories that last a lifetime.
Summer Discovery at the University of Texas, Austin
For over 10 years, Summer Discovery and the University of Texas at Austin have delivered exceptional pre-college programs at one of America’s most distinguished public universities. Every Summer Discovery course at UT Austin is developed by the university and taught by university faculty and instructors. Students enjoy unprecedented and exclusive access to campus facilities not available through other summer programs.
Students engage in hands-on, college-level courses or full-day academies that challenge ambitious and curious minds, building confidence and passion for learning. Whether exploring multiple courses or diving deep into intensive academies, students experience both intellectual growth and Austin’s legendary energy.
Beyond the classroom, downtown Austin delivers: live music, festivals, outdoor adventures, and eclectic dining just steps from campus. Here, rigorous academics meet one of America’s most vibrant cities, creating an unforgettable summer experience that ambitious students crave.
Courses Available in:
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Engineering
• Humanities
• Law & Government
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Psychology & Social Science
• Science & Mathematics
• Sports Management
Course Highlights:
Forensic Science and Crime Scene Investigation: Join Texas crime lab forensics scientists to explore the techniques, tools, and methodologies used to solve crimes. This course emphasizes DNA and fingerprinting, inviting students to conduct hands-on laboratory exercises that teach them about the technology and equipment needed to analyze and interpret physical evidence.
Careers in Medicine Academy: This rewarding and challenging program gives high school students a rare opportunity to get a taste of medical school and learn via hands-on skills, including suturing, biopsying, and checking vital signs. Problem-based learning includes dissections and lab simulations to diagnose common illnesses and injuries.
With full access to UT Austin’s 431-acre campus, students enjoy pool parties, rock climbing, golf simulators, as well as basketball, tennis and pickleball. Off-campus activities may include:
• Barton Springs & Zilker Park
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas
• Schlitterbahn Waterpark
• Austin FC Soccer Game
• Texas Science & Natural History Museum
• Dave & Busters
• Playland Skate Center
Summer Discovery at UCLA
For 38 years, Summer Discovery at UCLA has been our longest-running and most popular program — the gold standard in pre-college experiences. As the most applied-to public university in the United States, UCLA blends academic excellence, world-class facilities, and Southern California’s iconic lifestyle. Every course is created by UCLA and taught by UCLAselected instructors, with Summer Discovery students gaining unparalleled access to residence halls and campus resources.
High school and middle school students pursuing diverse subjects, like business, entertainment, STEM, and medicine, benefit from hands-on, immersive learning in small groups. The program balances rigorous academics with a socially driven, activity-focused experience students crave, making it perfect for those seeking camaraderie alongside intellectual growth.
Set in culturally vibrant Los Angeles, UCLA offers proximity to beaches, theme parks, movie studios, and world-famous landmarks. Academic excellence meets California dreams: an unforgettable summer where learning and lifestyle converge.
Courses Available in:
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology
• Creative Arts
• Engineering
• Fashion, Business, & Design
Course Highlights:
• Film Production
• Humanities
• Law & Government
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Psychology & Social Science
• Science & Mathematics
Psychology. Discover the fascinating world of human behavior with our comprehensive psychology offerings. Whether you’re interested in understanding mental disorders in Abnormal Psychology, exploring how mental conditioning shapes athletic performance and the sports industry in Sports Psychology, or analyzing criminal behavior and justice systems in Criminal Psychology, these three courses examine the theories, research, and real-world applications that define this dynamic field.
BRUIN Leadership & Entrepreneurship Entertainment Academy: Master the keys to effective and impactful leadership by exploring UCLA’s renowned leadership frameworks used by entertainment industry elites to shape media and society. Examine how media moguls built empires, analyze casting and representation decisions, and explore how social media stars maintain their brands while developing your own leadership strategy.
Film Industry Primer: Go front stage and backstage to see how acting, auditioning, writing, and producing form a thriving film industry in the heart of the entertainment capital. Step into the spotlight with foundational acting techniques and on-camera exercises; move behind the camera to write, pitch, and produce your own short film. Learn digital cinematography, editing, and the full production cycle from pre- to post-production.
Los Angeles’s iconic entertainment industry, world-famous beaches, and dynamic cultural scene are minutes away. Off-campus activities for students may include
Summer Discovery at UCLA Anderson
Summer Discovery and UCLA Anderson School of Management have partnered for over 35 years to deliver exceptional pre-college business programs. Developed and hosted entirely by UCLA Anderson’s Center for Media, Entertainment & Sports, every course is created and taught by distinguished faculty specially selected by UCLA Anderson. Students gain unprecedented access to world-class instruction and facilities.
Cutting-edge coursework and real-world case studies invite students to explore specialized academies in Business Leadership, Digital Marketing, and Sports Business. Each program integrates advanced academic insights with hands-on classroom experiences, industry leader connections, and field trips supporting the curriculum.
Located in the global hub of entertainment, media, and professional sports, UCLA Anderson leverages Los Angeles’s thriving industries for incomparable learning experiences. Students receive an official UCLA Anderson certificate of completion — a prestigious credential that showcases their strategic thinking and innovative mindset.
• Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood
• Santa Monica Beach (and Pier), Manhattan Beach, Malibu Beach
• Rodeo Drive, Abbot Kinney, Third Street Promenade, Century City
• Dodgers, Angels, LA Galaxy Sports Games
• Griffith Observatory, Hike to the Hollywood Sign
Courses Available in:
Digital Advertising & Brand Strategy Academy: Discover how major entertainment companies, sports franchises, music labels, and streaming platforms build buzz and create viral moments through strategic digital marketing and social media. Hands-on projects, real-world entertainment industry case studies, and interactive workshops help you develop campaign strategies, create engaging content, and analyze performance metrics. You’ll build a professional portfolio highlighting your ability to market entertainment properties in today’s social media-driven world.
Sports Business Academy: Learn how emerging technologies, social media, Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) opportunities, and the rise of women’s sports are transforming the business of connecting fans to their favorite athletes and teams. Through business frameworks, industry professional meetings, and behind-the-scenes tours of L.A.’s arenas, you’ll master sports management principles and present innovative solutions to real industry challenges.
Foundations in Business Leadership Academy: Learn essential business and leadership principles through an immersive program featuring entertainment industry case studies, simulations, and guest speakers from L.A.’s business world. You’ll develop financial literacy, strategic thinking, and leadership skills through team projects. Finally, you’ll showcase your learning through a capstone consulting project that analyzes real company challenges.
• Sunset Cruise LEARN MORE »
Summer Discovery at UC Berkeley
Discovery at UC Berkeley — perennially ranked among the nation’s top public universities — offers academically motivated students access to world-class labs, maker spaces, and hands-on learning in engineering, computer science, business, and medical research.
Taught by passionate instructors and eminent professors, our intensive academies challenge students through project-based work that builds practical skills for college and beyond.
Students thrive in Berkeley’s fast-paced, intellectually stimulating environment shaped by Silicon Valley’s startup culture and tech innovation. Whether dissecting specimens, building robotics projects, or tackling complex engineering challenges, curious and determined students push their boundaries while managing rigorous academic demands.
Set on a stunning 1,232-acre campus with views of the San Francisco Bay, Berkeley offers vibrant campus life, plus Telegraph Avenue’s bookstores, cafes, and countercultural heritage. Academic excellence meets Bay Area innovation, creating an unforgettable summer for driven students.
• Medicine & Health Sciences (Research)
• Engineering
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology Courses Available in:
Course Highlights:
Engineering and Robotics Academy: Investigate the rapidly evolving world of robotics — from AI-driven automation to soft robotics. Discover how these innovations are transforming industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and space exploration. Through handson projects, you’ll design robotic solutions to real-world problems and master fundamental concepts in circuitry, sensors, mechanical design, and programming.
Explore the world of cutting-edge research with a fullday academy in Research in Medicine or Research in Engineering. In partnership with Polygence, each academy provides students with the skills and expert guidance to conduct their own unique research project. These hybrid programs begin on campus with Summer Discovery and then pivot to an individualized mentorship experience with Polygence during the school year.
Off-campus activities may include:
• Major/Minor League Sports Games
• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• Great American Amusement Park
• Tilden Regional Park
• Berkeley’s Gourmet Ghetto
• Dave & Busters
LEARN MORE »
Dartmouth Summer Scholars
The Dartmouth Summer Scholars program offers academically-driven students an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world’s premier Ivy League institutions. Intensive, fullday academies are designed by Dartmouth and taught by distinguished university faculty and expert instructors. These academies feature small class sizes, personalized attention, and a rigorous curriculum that challenges and inspires. Students engage in over five hours of daily instruction across diverse disciplines, with many courses culminating in capstone presentations. Balancing academic excellence and personal growth, this highly selective program attracts motivated, self-reliant students who thrive in a community of like-minded peers while preparing for Ivy League success.
Founded in 1769, Dartmouth’s stunning 269-acre campus blends historic architecture with New England’s natural beauty. Located in charming Hanover, New Hampshire, students enjoy vibrant downtown shops and restaurants, plus abundant outdoor activities — from hiking scenic trails to exploring the Connecticut River.
Courses Available in:
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Engineering
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology
Course Highlights:
• Science & Mathematics
• Psychology & Social Science
• Law & Government
• Humanities
Leadership Institute: Learn what defines exceptional leadership across disciplines, industries, and cultures through expert instruction that grounds theory in real-world application, discovering your own leadership strengths along the way. The experience combines six and a half days of classroom instruction with a two-day immersive outdoor retreat in the White Mountains, providing transformative opportunities to develop leadership skills in vastly different learning environments.
Research & Lab Work in Medicine: Discover how medical research moves from lab bench to life-saving treatments through hands-on exploration of cell biology, microbiology, genetics, and clinical trial design, guided by Dartmouth faculty and medical professionals. You’ll master laboratory techniques, conduct a collaborative research project, and present your findings in a conference-style poster session modeling real scientific practice.
Spanish Language Intensive: Persuasive Dialogue: Develop persuasive speaking skills in Spanish using the celebrated Rassias Method® — an engaging, immersive approach that combines dramatic techniques and energetic drills to build genuine fluency. Through debates, negotiations, and real-world role plays, you’ll master rhetorical strategies and gain the confidence to communicate effectively in Spanish-speaking business, political, and professional contexts.
The Upper Valley offers the best of New England—outdoor adventures, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Hood Museum of Art
• Six Flags New England
• Fisher Cats Minor League Baseball Game
• Dave & Busters
• The Mall of New Hampshire
Summer Discovery at Georgetown University
Summer Discovery and Georgetown University have partnered for over 30 years to deliver exceptional pre-college high school and middle school programs in the heart of Washington, D.C. Every course is curated and taught by distinguished faculty, ensuring academic excellence that fosters critical thinking and real-world application while building confidence for college and beyond.
Students choose from a robust curriculum spanning diverse subjects, including government, international relations, and fields uniquely enriched by the nation’s capital setting. The program balances rigorous academics with D.C.’s unparalleled access to history, culture, and global affairs. It’s perfectly suited for motivated students seeking both intellectual challenge and dynamic experiences beyond the classroom.
Nestled in one of the capital’s most charming historic neighborhoods, Georgetown’s campus offers cobblestone streets, waterfront views, cafes, shops, and cultural landmarks. Academic excellence meets the nation’s capital.
Courses Available in:
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Sports Management
• Computer Science & Technology
Course Highlights:
• Science & Mathematics
• Psychology & Social Science
• Law & Government
• Humanities
Global Leadership Academy: Join Ideagen Global’s transformative course where you’ll explore the world’s most pressing challenges through the lens of the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Develop your own sustainable business or nonprofit plan that advances one of the 17 SDGs while gaining a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship can drive meaningful global impact.
American Government & Civic Engagement: Explore modern American government and the current issues shaping headlines. Examine how politics, economics, and social concerns impact civil liberties and democratic citizenship. Through historical analysis and respectful debate, you’ll discover your political convictions while learning to engage thoughtfully with the complex, sometimes controversial topics that define American society.
International Relations: Analyze the forces shaping global politics through study of international relations theories, contemporary conflicts, and the role of international organizations in diplomacy and trade. You’ll analyze historical and modern-day relationships, compare political systems, and build confidence in forming informed perspectives on today’s pressing international challenges.
Beyond the classroom, Washington, D.C., offers endless opportunities to explore history, culture, and entertainment. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
• The White House
• Air & Space Museum
• Washington Nationals Baseball Game
• National Harbor, D.C. Waterfront
• Six Flags Amusement Park
LEARN MORE »
Summer Discovery at Vanderbilt University
Summer Discovery at Vanderbilt University offers rigorous full-day academies taught by top Vanderbilt instructors and field experts in partnership with departments such as the College of Connected Computing and Owen Graduate School of Management. Students gain extensive access to the university faculty and world-class resources that fuel research and innovation.
Academically driven students engage in handson, college-level learning that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and pushes the boundaries of traditional education. The program fosters academic achievement and professional development, building confidence and clarity for college and beyond.
Where Southern hospitality meets intellectual excellence, Vanderbilt’s dynamic campus cultivates creativity, discovery, and growth. Students experience rigorous academics within a thriving community enhanced by Nashville’s vibrant culture and Music City energy just beyond campus.
• Engineering
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology
• Psychology & Social Science
• Law & Government Courses Available in:
Course Highlights:
Business Leadership: Gain the tools and confidence to lead with purpose and impact. In this engaging course led by faculty from the Owen School of Management, you’ll explore core principles of business leadership and what it means to lead in today’s fast-paced, global business environment. Topics will include leadership styles, team dynamics, ethical decision-making, entrepreneurship, communication strategies, and strategic thinking.
Python in Action: Creative Coding Through Games: Master Python fundamentals, from variables and control flow to loops and functions, while bringing your code to life through engaging Turtle graphics projects, patterns, and animations. You’ll progress to working with real data, creating visualizations, and collaborating on a team project that solves a data-driven problem, culminating in a polished presentation of your work.
Beyond the classroom, Nashville’s legendary music scene, vibrant neighborhoods, and Southern charm are minutes away. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Nashville Zoo
• Randor Lake State Park
• Country Music Hall of Fame
• Nashville Parthenon
• Ryman Auditorium
• RCA Studio B
SUMMER DISCOVERY TESTIMONIAL
SHAYNA MILLMAN
When I first heard about Summer Discovery, I knew right away that I wanted to get a glimpse of what college life was actually like. I’ve always been someone who likes to plan ahead and get a sense of what’s coming next, so spending part of my summer on a real college campus sounded like the perfect opportunity. I wanted to understand what it feels like to live, study, and make connections in a college environment before it’s time for me to apply. I figured, why wait until senior year to experience that when I could start exploring early and get a deeper perspective than most students my age?
UCLA was one of my dream schools, so I knew from the start that I definitely wanted to experience a program there. But after talking with someone from the Summer Discovery team, I was encouraged to also look
into the program at UT Austin, which matched many of my interests and personality. The Summer Discovery advisor said it would be a great opportunity to experience two totally different campuses and learning environments, and they were completely right.
I spent three weeks at UT Austin and then three weeks at UCLA, and honestly, that combination couldn’t have been more perfect. I was extremely privileged to experience two programs over the summer, which felt like a great fit for me since I had already spent about five to six weeks away from home during previous summers. That extra independence helped me feel comfortable right away and let me really make the most of both experiences.
A typical day in my program started with grabbing breakfast with friends and getting ready together. It really felt like we were living in a dorm community. Walking across a huge, beautiful campus every morning was surreal. I loved exploring, finding little study spots, and soaking in the college atmosphere. Then it was off to classes, where I got to dive deeper into subjects that actually excited me. In the afternoons, we would grab lunch, hang out, and join fun activities both on and off campus. Every day felt full and meaningful in the best way.
If I had to pick the most memorable moment, it would hands down be the live band karaoke night. Performing on stage was such a cool experience that helped me gain confidence as a performer and reminded me how much I love music. What made it even better was seeing my friends totally let loose and cheer each other on. It was one of those nights where everyone felt connected and happy. For teens considering a program like this, my biggest piece of advice is to go for it. I remember when my older cousins came home from college for the holidays and immediately said, “I can’t wait to go back.” I had that same exact feeling after Summer Discovery. When I got home, all I could think about was, “When can I go back?” It is that same feeling of belonging, growth, and excitement, and it is something you will carry with you long after the summer ends.
Summer Discovery at Yale University
Summer Discovery’s Institute for the Gifted program at Yale offers academically driven high school and middle school students an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of America’s most prestigious Ivy League institutions. Challenging courses span business, medicine, law, computer science, neuroscience, engineering, and more, taught by expert instructors in small, interactive settings that foster curiosity and intellectual growth through a hands-on, rigorous curriculum.
Students engage deeply with complex subjects such as biopsychology, astrophysics, robotics, and financial markets, with personalized attention that accommodates diverse learning styles. The program balances academic excellence with social experiences and activities, building confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork skills while connecting students with talented peers in a supportive, inclusive community.
Founded in 1701, Yale’s magnificent campus showcases Gothic architecture and centuries of academic tradition in historic New Haven, Connecticut. Students explore the city’s vibrant cultural attractions, museums, restaurants, and green spaces, while accessing world-class laboratories and facilities that fuel innovation and discovery.
Courses Available in:
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology
• Creative Arts
• Engineering (Research)
• Humanities
• Law & Government
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Psychology & Social Sciences
• STEAM
Course Highlights:
Explore the world of cutting-edge research with a full-day academy in Research in Medicine or Research in Engineering. In partnership with Polygence, each academy provides students with the skills and expert guidance to conduct their own unique research project. These hybrid programs begin on campus with Summer Discovery and then pivot to an individualized mentorship experience with Polygence during the school year.
Quantum Mechanics in the Quantum Realm: Discover the mindbending science behind phenomena like quantum entanglement and wave-particle duality, where particles can exist in multiple states simultaneously and communicate across vast distances. Explore Schrodinger’s wave equation, Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle, and other quantum concepts that power modern technologies from semiconductors and lasers to MRIs and atomic clocks.
New Haven’s rich cultural scene, historic landmarks, and eclectic neighborhoods are steps away from Yale’s campus. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Dave & Busters
• Six Flags Great Adventure
• Hammonasset State Beach
• Yale Art Gallery
LEARN MORE »
Summer Discovery at Cornell University
Summer Discovery at Cornell University offers middle school and gifted students an enriching opportunity to learn at one of the nation’s premier Ivy League institutions. Specialized courses span medical sciences, engineering, business, psychology, law, and more. Expert instructors challenge students through an interactive, hands-on curriculum designed to spark curiosity and foster personal growth.
Students engage in rigorous academics across diverse disciplines, including regenerative medicine, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The program balances intensive learning that includes daily workshops in the arts, health, and sports with off-campus excursions for students eager to explore their passions and develop new skills.
Founded in 1865, Cornell’s picturesque campus is nestled in Ithaca, New York, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including gorges and waterfalls. Students enjoy the charm of a traditional college setting steeped in history, with access to vibrant downtown Ithaca and outdoor activities throughout the scenic Finger Lakes region.
Middle school courses available:
• Applied Data Science with Python
• Business & Entrepreneurship with NFTE
• Codes and Ciphers: The Mathematics of Cryptography
• Creative Writing
• CSI: Forensic Science
• Discrete Mathematics
• Graphic Design Meets Data
• Hit the Gavel: Mock Trial & Debate
• Introduction to Marketing & Advertising
• Masterminds of Creative Robotics
• Medical Microbiology
• Money Matters: Stocks, Bonds & Your Financial Future
• Regenerative Medicine: The Engineered Anatomy
• Remarkable Rhetoric: Make A Lasting Impression
• Theories of Time Travel: Spacetime Physics & Wormholes
Ithaca’s scenic gorges, lively downtown, and outdoor adventures are minutes away from Cornell’s campus. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Sunset Cruise on the Finger Lakes
• Sagan Planet Walk
• Sciencenter Mini Golf
• Seabreeze Amusement Park
• Outdoor Hikes
LEARN MORE »
ABAAN RASHID
Sustainable Engineering at Somerville College at University of Oxford OXFORD SUMMER COURSES REVIEW
I chose to participate in this program because it offered something I had always been searching for: a way to see engineering not just as numbers and formulas, but as a living, breathing discipline tied to people, cities, and the environment.
Sustainable engineering sounded like the perfect opportunity to learn about holistic approaches to solving real-world problems. I knew that spending two weeks in such a historic academic setting would challenge and inspire me in ways I hadn’t experienced before.
A typical day meant walking through the beautiful grounds of Somerville College on my way to class, where discussions ranged from renewable energy systems to urban design and water management strategies. Our sessions never felt like lectures —
they were conversations, problem-solving challenges, and debates that showed me how interconnected technology, society, and nature truly are.
On several occasions, we had collaborative presentations that tested us in real time, pushing us to think critically and problem-solve under pressure. This experience felt incredibly close to how global challenges must be addressed in the real world.
The most memorable part of my program was the Sundarbans project I completed. I explored how sustainable engineering could protect one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable regions by balancing human needs with ecological preservation. Working on this project was eye-opening because of its technical challenges and because it showed me that engineering can carry compassion, resilience, and a vision for the future. That project remains one of the clearest examples I’ve had of why I want to pursue this field.
The friendships I made during these two weeks are unlike anything else I’ve experienced. What made this experience stand out even more were the conversations with fellow engineers and my peers who were studying architecture, law, PPE, and many other subjects. Hearing how they approached global challenges from their own lenses was enlightening, sparking some of the most thought-provoking debates on the future of society I’ve ever had. By the end of the course, my classmates had become lifelong friends I know I’ll stay connected with for years to come.
If I could give one piece of advice to anyone considering Oxford Summer Courses, it would be this: don’t hold back. Step out of your comfort zone; you’ll find the freedom to express yourself in ways you never thought possible. Be open to learning in ways you’ve never tried before, be brave enough to share your ideas, and don’t be afraid to build connections that last well beyond the summer. This program was an outstanding experience that shaped my vision for the future, both personally and in terms of the world we’re working to make more sustainable.
Summer Discovery at the University of Michigan
Summer Discovery and the University of Michigan have partnered for over 30 years to deliver best-in-class precollege enrichment at America’s “Public Ivy.” Our handson curriculum challenges students intellectually while building confidence, maturity, and a passion for learning.
Weeklong courses let students start any week over the summer, mixing and matching two or three unique courses in their custom two- or three-week session — perfect for exploring multiple disciplines. Whether commuting or living on campus, students experience intellectual and personal growth while enjoying the vibrant opportunities of campus life and downtown Ann Arbor.
The result? A dynamic mix of rigorous academics and enriching social experiences, set in one of America’s best college towns. Just steps from campus, downtown Ann Arbor’s tree-lined streets and historic architecture offer a lively cultural scene, eclectic restaurants, boutiques, and cafes.
Courses Available in:
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Engineering
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Sports Management
• Computer Science & Technology
Course Highlights:
• Science & Mathematics
• Psychology & Social Science
• Law & Government
• Film Production & Screenwriting
• Humanities
Business & Entrepreneurship Academy: In this course, students are guided through an award-winning curriculum by the Network for Teaching and Entrepreneurship (NFTE) on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Coached by an NFTE-certified instructor, students use a lean business model canvas to create an original business idea, write a business plan, and pitch their concept to veteran entrepreneurs.
Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience (BCN): Students get an opportunity to explore the fundamental principles that drive the intricate workings of the brain-mind connection with the fields of biopsychology, cognition, and neuroscience. Students learn how neuroplasticity, chemical processes, and gene functions cognitively impact the brain with memory, decision-making, and language.
Downtown Ann Arbor hosts seasonal art, music, and entertainment festivals and a farmer’s market. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Cedar Point Amusement Park
• Kayaking on the Huron River
• Pinball Pete’s Arcade
• Detroit Tigers Baseball Game
• Detroit Zoo
• Motown Records Museum
• Big House Tour - Michigan Football Stadium
Pre-College Law Academy at University of Pennsylvania, Carey Law School
Summer Discovery’s highly selective Pre-College Academy at University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School offers high-achieving students passionate about justice a unique opportunity to experience an accelerated first-year law school curriculum. Hand-selected applicants learn from Penn Law faculty and practitioners in state-of-the-art facilities, engaging with coursework typically reserved for first-year law students.
Over three weeks, students master legal theory and practice through rigorous coursework, participate in mock trials and contract negotiations, visit the James A. Byrne U.S. Federal Courthouse, and explore specialized fields including corporate law, environmental law, and intellectual property. The program will challenge you intellectually while providing valuable insights into diverse legal career pathways. Students earn a Certificate of Completion from Penn Law Academy.
Hosted by 284-year-old Ivy League UPenn in historic Philadelphia, this transformative program helps students determine if law is their calling. You’ll get a valuable head start on your legal education and future career.
UBC Sauder Business Academy
Ranked #1 as Canada’s best business program for eight consecutive years by Maclean’s Magazine, UBC Sauder School of Business offers high school students an unparalleled opportunity to explore business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Students learn from exceptional faculty who bring cutting-edge research and real-world expertise into the classroom and collaborate with peers from around the globe on Vancouver’s stunning UBC campus.
All students begin their day with Business Fundamentals: Leadership for the Future, then choose from afternoon electives including Finance & Investing, Data Analytics, Marketing & Branding, and Entrepreneurship. Through interactive lessons, collaborative projects, and hands-on activities, students develop practical business skills while thinking like future leaders and innovators.
Philadelphia’s historic landmarks, thriving arts district, and diverse neighborhoods are minutes away from Penn’s campus. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Hershey Park
• Jersey Shore
• Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell
• Philadelphia Phillies Baseball Game
• James A. Byrne U.S. Federal Courthouse
• Philadelphia Center for Criminal Justice and Court of Common Pleas
Beyond the classroom, students experience one of North America’s most stunning settings, surrounded by ocean, mountains, and forest. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Hiking Cypress Mountain
• UBC Sailing Club: sailing, kayaking, windsurfing
• Grouse Mountain: zipline tours, rope adventures
Oxford Summer Courses
For high school students eager to study in the U.K., Oxford Summer Courses (part of the Summer Discovery family) offers the opportunity to experience personalized, discussion-based learning inspired by the Oxford tutorial model. Instead of a set syllabus, each student’s learning journey is tailored to their individual goals and interests, allowing them to explore the topics that matter most. Guided by expert tutors, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills while studying in historic Oxford or Cambridge.
This option is perfect for students who want a flexible, intellectually challenging experience that adapts to their passions.
Oxford Summer Courses at University of Cambridge
Engage with rigorous programs taught by expert tutors at the historic University of Cambridge, an institution with over eight centuries of notable contributions to science, literature, and the arts. Academically driven students engage with universitylevel coursework in classes of fewer than eight classmates. They’ll experience the renowned Cambridge tutorial system and benefit from personalized attention across subjects such as business, law, medicine, STEM, and creative writing.
Access world-class resources, including college facilities, libraries, and cultural landmarks that fuel intellectual curiosity across disciplines. Experience Cambridge’s academic community where ancient tradition meets modern innovation along the scenic River Cam. You’ll explore historic sites like castles, abbeys, and palaces in the British countryside, relax at local coffee shops and restaurants, and have easy access to London, 65 miles south.
Oxford Summer Courses at Oxford
Immerse yourself in rigorous programs taught by tutors within the historic Oxford setting. Be part of an educational tradition spanning over 900 years that has shaped some of the world’s greatest minds, like J.R.R. Tolkien, Malala Yousafzai, and Stephen Hawking. Academically-driven students engage with universitylevel coursework in intimate classes of eight or fewer students, experiencing the renowned tutorial system with personalized attention across subjects from philosophy and medicine to business and creative writing.
Access the Bodleian Library, college facilities, and the Ashmolean Museum that fuel intellectual curiosity across disciplines. Experience the academic and cultural scene, set against the city’s inspiring architecture, where centuries of achievement meet modern innovation. The program includes weekly excursions to London, Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds, and historic landmarks like Stonehenge.
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Computer Science & Technology
• Creative Arts Courses Available in:
• Engineering
• Humanities
• Medicine & Health Sciences
• Psychology & Social Sciences
• STEAM
Cambridge’s historic colleges, the charming River Cam, and the picturesque city center are within walking distance of campus. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Punting on the River Cam
• English Tea at the Orchard
• A visit to historic London
• College Tours
• Business, Leadership & Entrepreneurship
• Creative Arts
• Engineering Courses Available in:
• Humanities
• Law & Government
• Medicine & Health Science
• STEAM
Oxford’s landmarks, architecture, and city streets are within walking distance of campus. Off-campus activities for students may include:
• Landmarks like the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College
• The Ashmolean Museum
• Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare
FINDING YOUR TRUE SELF: When Summer Breaks the Mold
n the fluorescent-lit hallways of high school, a fourteen-year-old freshman learns to make herself smaller. Her love of astronomy — once a source of pure joy as she pointed out constellations to anyone who would listen — becomes a secret she must guard. When classmates discuss weekend plans filled with shopping trips
and social media trends, her excitement about the latest Mars rover images feels suddenly awkward. She watches other students navigate the unspoken rules of belonging: the right clothing brands, the shared references from TikTok and Snapchat, how they carefully mirror each other’s interests. Slowly, quietly, she dims her own light.
THE COST OF FITTING IN
This scene plays out in schools nationwide, where the pressure to assimilate stifles the celebration of individuality. Within familiar walls, children from similar neighborhoods and economic backgrounds create ecosystems where conformity feels safe and difference feels risky. Unconventional interests, family traditions, and unique worldviews become sources of anxiety rather than pride.
The cafeteria becomes a social laboratory. Students study each other, analyzing who sits where, who wears what, and who discusses which topics. The message becomes clear: fitting in matters and straying carries consequences. Children learn exhausting daily performances, code-switching between their authentic and school selves. (People code switch when they change the way they talk, like using different words or even tones of voice, depending on who they’re talking to, the situation, and their environment).
THE POWER OF DIVERSE ENVIRONMENTS
But transformative opportunities exist outside these constraining walls. Summer enrichment programs bring together students from vastly different backgrounds and create entirely different social dynamics. When children interact with classmates from different continents, languages, and cultures, something magical happens.
The astronomy enthusiast isn’t weird — she’s fascinating, and now she knows there are other children out there just like her. The teen passionate about robotics finds others equally excited about coding competitions. The student who’s stopped sharing their family traditions finds eager listeners wanting to learn about unfamiliar festivals and foods.
These environments create a complete reversal: differences become connection currency instead of embarrassment sources. Standing out becomes an asset, not a liability.
BLOOMING, NOT HIDING
When surrounded by true diversity rather than homogeneity, children stop shrinking into predetermined boxes. They ask questions, share stories, and take intellectual risks. Their authentic selves become not just acceptable but celebrated. The very traits that isolated these students in regular classrooms now make them captivating.
These programs understand that academic enrichment extends beyond the curriculum. When children feel confident in their differences and interesting because of them not despite them, genuine learning flourishes. Students aren’t trying to fit molds; they’re exploring what makes them unique.
A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE
The transformation is profound. After participating in a summer program, children emerge older, wiser, and more comfortable in their own skin. They carry themselves differently, with newfound pride in their perspectives and passions. They’ve learned to articulate what excites them without apologizing and to defend their interests with conviction rather than hide them with shame.
This confidence becomes foundational for their futures. Instead of choosing college majors or career paths based on perceived safety or social acceptance, these students are equipped to pursue authentic passions. They understand their interests deeply and possess the confidence to commit fully to paths that truly inspire them.
THE TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCE OF SUMMER PROGRAMS
For almost 60 years, programs like Summer Discovery have been industry trailblazers in understanding this transformative power. They’ve perfected the delicate balance of academic rigor, adventure, and social development, creating experiences that draw students from wonderfully diverse backgrounds.
By celebrating student differences, these programs create a life-changing impact that lasts far beyond a single summer, providing students with the confidence to thrive and soar in the future.
The Power of Emotional Intelligence: WHY EQ MATTERS
n today’s competitive academic landscape, parents and high school students focus intensely on GPA and test scores. While these remain important, there’s another crucial factor that determines success in college and beyond: emotional intelligence, or EQ.
UNDERSTANDING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions while effectively responding to others’ emotions. For students, having this intelligence means navigating
stress, working collaboratively, resolving conflicts, and communicating effectively.
Unlike IQ, which measures cognitive abilities like problem-solving and logical reasoning, EQ encompasses four fundamental tenets:
• Self-awareness involves understanding your own emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and values. This insight enables students to recognize when anxiety affects their performance or identify which subjects genuinely excite them (as opposed to the subjects they study for external validation).
• Self-Management — the ability to regulate emotions, control impulses, and adapt to change — shows when a student handles disappointment constructively, manages their time effectively, or finds creative solutions on their own.
• Social Awareness encompasses empathy and organizational awareness, understanding others’ emotions and reading social dynamics. Students demonstrate this competency when they notice a classmate struggling and offer support, or when they pick up on unspoken tensions and try to address them.
• Relationship Management involves inspiring, collaborating with, and developing others while working effectively with diverse groups. Students who motivate each other during challenging moments or navigate disagreements respectfully show good relationship management.
A student with a high EQ integrates all four tenets, creating a foundation for both academic success and meaningful personal relationships. While a high IQ helps students excel on tests, EQ determines their ability to work effectively in teams, lead others, adapt to new environments, and bounce back from setbacks.
Research shows emotional intelligence is a stronger predictor of success than IQ alone. Leaders with high emotional intelligence are rated 2.5 times more effective by their subordinates, and 90% of top performers in the workplace possess high EQ.
WHAT COLLEGE ADMISSIONS REALLY WANT
Today’s admissions officers look beyond grades and test scores. Colleges want students who will contribute to campus communities, collaborate with diverse groups, and demonstrate emotional maturity. Essays showcasing self-reflection, applications highlighting community involvement, and recommendation letters speaking to character reflect emotional intelligence.
Colleges and universities seek students who can handle the social and emotional challenges of college life while maintaining their academic performance. The reason is clear: these institutions recognize that students with a strong EQ are more likely to succeed academically, engage in campus life, and graduate as well-rounded individuals.
THE SUMMER ADVANTAGE
Summer programs combining academic enrichment with experiential learning and opportunities for guided independence provide the perfect setting for students to practice emotional skills in real-world situations. Emotional resilience for the college years is built through experiences like:
• Managing daily schedules
• Adapting to new social situations and diverse people
• Adjusting to different learning environments
• Developing time management skills while balancing academics and activities
Programs prioritizing the whole student recognize that intellectual growth and emotional development complement each other. When students are challenged academically while given an opportunity to build confidence, empathy, and self-awareness, they return home better prepared for the transition to college and adult independence.
For nearly 60 years, Summer Discovery has championed a holistic approach to student development, offering summer enrichment programs focused on nurturing the entire student through meaningful academic, personal, and social experiences.
