TeenLife 2026 Guide to Summer Programs

2026

Summer

PROGRAMS

HOW TO

CHOOSE

THE RIGHT

SUMMER

PROGRAM

PLUS:

SLEEP AWAY VS

DAY PROGRAMS

THE UPSIDE

OF EARNING

COLLEGE CREDIT

THIS SUMMER

Residential and Online Academic Enrichment Programs • Grades 8–11

Pursue Your Passions This Summer

Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies offers academically motivated and intellectually curious

students the opportunity to explore topics that go beyond the typical high school curriculum.

Our programs invite students to challenge themselves through deep, engaging study in

advanced fields at the forefront of academic discovery.

Learn More at spcs.stanford.edu/teenlife

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Learn More

A NOTE FROM THE

TEENLIFE TEAM

hen the final school bell rings and backpacks

hit the closet, a new kind of adventure begins.

Summer stretches invitingly, wide open and

filled with promise. This summer, why not

chase your dreams, nurture your talents, and explore what

really inspires you and feeds your soul? After all, what is

summer but the perfect season of self-discovery!

While we at TeenLife love spontaneity, we also believe the

greatest adventures require planning. So before the dust

settles on this school year, let us be your compass and map.

What kind of story will you tell?

• Will you chase the sunset to exotic locales, mastering a

second language beneath a foreign sky or studying the

masters while refining your own artistic talent?

• Will you spend a few weeks charting your future, earning

college credits in a pre-college program or gaining

real-world experience in a focused internship?

• Will you stand taller, cultivating your leadership and

public speaking skills that will define you long after

summer fades?

We invite you to step inside the pages of this year’s Summer

Programs Guide. Inside, you’ll find insights to help identify

what’s important to you, like the value of networking and tips

and tricks for traveling abroad, and help navigate your options.

The real treasure, however, lies in the guide’s 150+ program

listings. We’ve curated a universe of in-person and virtual

programs for middle and high school students, sorted to spark

your imagination. Academics and pre-college enrichment,

language and cultural immersion, outdoor adventure and travel,

STEM and beyond… and so many other possibilities await.

Where will your summer take you? Open this guide and begin

your exploration. Your next journey awaits you somewhere

in its pages.

GUIDE TO

SUMMER

PROGRAMS

PUBLISHER

TeenLife Media, teenlife.com

EDITOR

Editor-in-Chief -

Nancy Li, nancy@teenlife.com

Managing Editor -

Jodi Ireland, jodi@teenlife.com

Associate Editor - Stefanie Tedards,

stedards@joincollegeadvisor.com

ADVERTISING SALES

Director of Sales -

Brenda Boos, brenda@teenlife.com

Sales Account Manager -

Jen Fisher, jen@teenlife.com

Sales Account Manager -

Gina Messina, gina@teenlife.com

Sales & Support Associate -

Regan Beiermann, regan@teenlife.com

DISTRIBUTION

Digital Marketing Manager -

Dustin Silvaer, dustin@teenlife.com

DESIGNER

Kathy Tilton, kbtilton@gmail.com

To download a PDF of this Guide, go to:

teenlife.com/guides/summer-programs

To connect with opportunities

found in this guide, go to:

teenlife.com/request-summer

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including finance and broader business topics.

It also offered a collaborative, discussion-based

environment led by an experienced instructor.

Altogether, it felt like the ideal fit for both my

interests and the skills I hoped to develop.

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

World Scholars Academy

DARIA AZHYSHCHEVA

Why did you choose to participate in this program?

As a student with a strong interest in finance and

business, I was eager to find a summer program that

would deepen my understanding of the field. I also had

many questions about academic pathways and career

opportunities in economics and business. I wanted

guidance from someone with real expertise. After

discovering the World Scholars Academy and seeing that

their business course covered the foundational concepts

I was looking for, I applied immediately. The academy

felt like the perfect opportunity to explore my interests

with like-minded students and gain clarity about my

future direction.

How did you decide which program was right for you?

I knew I wanted a program aligned with my goal of

studying a finance-related subject at university, so I

started researching intensive online pre-college business

courses. I found the WSA Business Academy while

reading and listening to student testimonials. Its curriculum

covered all the core areas I wanted to explore,

Describe a typical day in your program.

The business course consisted of weekly twohour

lessons. Before each session, we completed

homework to build a foundational understanding

of the topics. During the lessons, our instructor

taught us essential concepts and demonstrated

them using real-life examples. The interactive

classes had plenty of discussion and engaging

conversations, creating an enjoyable and

dynamic learning experience.

What was the most memorable moment of

your summer?

The highlight of the program for me was learning

about competitive strategy and Porter’s Five

Forces, and then immediately applying those

concepts during an entrepreneurial challenge.

In a Shark Tank-style setting, my partner and

I developed a scalable product with a clear exit

plan and presented it to our peers for feedback.

The activity was engaging, creative, and a great

way to put theory into practice. Overall, the

challenge was a fun and rewarding experience

that strengthened my interest in studying business

and pursuing it as a career.

What advice do you have for teens looking

at programs?

When choosing a summer program, start by

looking for those that genuinely match your interests

or career goals. Research the instructors,

review the curriculum, and read feedback from

past participants to understand what to expect.

Make sure the schedule fits your availability and

that the program's teaching (and learning) style

works for you. Most importantly, go into the

experience with curiosity and a willingness to

engage. Summer programs give you a chance

to build skills, meet new people, and create

experiences that can shape your path forward.

2026 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO SUMMER PROGRAMS » GET MORE INFO AT TEENLIFE.COM/REQUEST-SUMMER | 5

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Contents

2026 GUIDE TO SUMMER PROGRAMS

5 STUDENT PROFILE: World Scholars Academy

10 EVALUATING SUMMER PROGRAMS:

Green lights and red flags

12 ACCELERATED ACADEMICS: The pros and

cons of earning college credit in a summer

pre-college program

15 STUDENT PROFILE: Savannah College of

Art & Design

17 PARENT PROFILE: Loyola Marymount University

18 OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS: A complete guide

for parents and students

20 SUMMER PROGRAMS

57 STUDENT PROFILE: Boston Leadership Institute

58 PURSUING A CAREER IN E-SPORTS

61 STUDENT PROFILE: Boston Architectural

College: Summer Programs

62 THE VALUE OF NETWORKING

65 ONLINE SUMMER PROGRAMS

76 STUDENT PROFILE: Summit STEM Fellowship

77 WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER A

SUMMER PROGRAM ON AI

79 STUDENT PROFILE: Summer Discovery

80 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR TRAVELING ABROAD:

Pack, prepare, and practice respect

82 STUDENT PROFILE: Oxford Summer Courses

83 IS A SUMMER PROGRAM ENOUGH TO DECIDE

ON A FULL GAP YEAR?

85 STUDENT PROFILE: New York School of

Interior Design

86 MIDDLE SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS

89 STUDENT PROFILE: DigiPen Academy

Pre-College Program

90 SCHOLARSHIPS

92 RESOURCES

94 INDEX

This summer, step onto a university campus where

INNOVATION AND

EXPLORATION MEET.

IT’S NOT JUST LEARNING.

IT’S DOING. FLYING. BUILDING.

SOLVING. EXPLORING.

Experience an unforgettable summer of

exploration and discovery at Embry‐Riddle

Aeronautical University’s premier Summer Camps

— offered at two dynamic campus locations

in Daytona Beach, FL, and Prescott, AZ.

With specialized programs in Flight,

Engineering, Global Security, Aeronautics,

Uncrewed Aircraft Systems and Air Traffic

Control, our camps are designed to immerse

students in hands‐on learning.

DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA

Embry‐Riddle’s campus in sunny Daytona

Beach offers a one‐of‐a‐kind summer camp

experience for aspiring aviators, engineers

and STEM enthusiasts.

With over 230 days of sunshine each

year, this coastal campus is not only home

to world‐class aviation and aerospace

programs — it’s a place where summer

learning becomes an adventure. Whether

launching drones, building rockets or

exploring flight labs, you’ll do it on a vibrant,

active campus surrounded by natural beauty.

Our camps are updated to bring our

students the latest and greatest topics —

like our new camp focused on machine

learning and artificial intelligence.

Contact Us

Daytona Beach, Florida, campus

386.226.7945 | summer@erau.edu

Expert faculty and instructor pilots

lead the way, building passions,

teaching real‐world skills and giving

students a glimpse into their future.

Our summer camp leaders are more

than mentors — they inspire by

sharing their journeys and helping

campers envision their future paths.

You won’t just hear about college

life — you’ll live it. From learning in

high‐tech labs to exploring campus

with new friends, every day is a

chance to discover something new.

THIS SUMMER CAN

CHANGE YOUR LIFE!

TWO LOCATIONS.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

EXPLORE OUR CAMPS

summercamps.erau.edu

PRESCOTT, ARIZONA

Adventure meets inspiration in the

mountain air of Embry‐Riddle’s northern

Arizona Campus.

Set amidst towering pines and stunning

granite peaks, Prescott offers the perfect

setting for an unforgettable summer

youth camp experience. Spend summer

navigating aircraft through the sky, building

cool tech, exploring global security

missions, solving crimes or managing the

sky like an air traffic controller.

Our camps explore advanced and

exciting topics — like our new Spy Camp

or our expanded ATC and Forensic

Science offerings.

Contact Us

Prescott, Arizona, campus

928.777.3956 | prsummer@erau.edu

EVALUATING SUMMER PROGRAMS:

Green lights and red flags

BY JODI IRELAND

hoosing the right summer program for your child

can feel like navigating a corn maze that takes hours

to escape. As parents, we want the best for our kids

— opportunities that pique their interest, develop

their skills, and create wonderful memories. But with all

the options and often significant financial investment these

programs require, how do you know you’re making the

right choice?

Keep reading for recommendations on how to evaluate

summer intensive programs with confidence. We’ll walk

through what to look for in the facility, faculty, and curriculum,

highlighting green lights and potential red flags. Remember,

the goal isn't to scrutinize every tiny detail, but to

gather enough information to feel secure that you’re investing

in a valuable and enriching experience for your child.

FACILITIES

A summer program’s physical environment plays a key role

in your child’s experience. While aesthetics matter, so does

safety, functionality, and suitability. A well-maintained facility,

from restrooms to studios, shows that a program prioritizes

its environment, staff, and participants’ well-being.

GREEN LIGHTS

Look for cleanliness and maintenance. A well-maintained

facility, from restrooms to studios, shows that a program

prioritizes its environment, staff, and participants’

well-being.

• Appropriate spaces for activities

Performing arts: Look for dedicated studios equipped

with proper flooring, mirrors, sound systems, and sufficient

space. Rehearsal rooms may be soundproofed.

Visual arts: Well-lit studios with ample workspace,

proper ventilation for paints or chemicals, and access

to equipment (kilns, easels, printing presses).

STEM/academic: Modern classrooms, well-equipped

labs with the latest technology, and safe experimental

environments.

Sports: Well-maintained courts, fields, or gyms with

appropriate safety padding and equipment.

• Safety measures: Visible fire exits, first-aid stations,

security personnel or protocols, and clear emergency

procedures. Ask about supervision ratios, especially for

younger children.

• Accessibility: Is the facility accessible for all participants,

including those with disabilities?

• Dormitories/housing (if residential): Clean, supervised,

and comfortable living spaces. Ask about roommate

policies, curfews, and adult-to-student ratios in

residential areas.

• Dining facilities: Healthy and varied meal options

catering to dietary needs. A clean and organized dining

area is a must.

RED FLAGS

• A run-down or neglected appearance: Peeling paint,

broken fixtures, and dirty common areas can suggest a

lack of care or insufficient funding.

• Unsuitable spaces: A dance program using a carpeted

room, an art program with poor lighting or ventilation, or

a STEM program with outdated or broken equipment.

• Lack of visible safety protocols: No fire extinguishers,

unmarked exits, or a general sense of disorganization

regarding safety.

• Overcrowding: Spaces that feel cramped or have too

many students for the size of the room.

• Poor online presence of facility: If the program

highlights facilities but doesn’t post photos on its

website or offer virtual tours, be wary.

QUICK CHECKLIST FOR FACILITIES

Visit in person, if

possible.

Look at photos/virtual

tours online.

Ask about safety protocols and

supervision.

Inquire about specific equipment

needed for the program.

10 | 2026 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO SUMMER PROGRAMS » GET MORE INFO AT TEENLIFE.COM/REQUEST-SUMMER

FACULTY AND INSTRUCTORS

Those leading the program are its most critical component.

What mentors, educators, and role models will your child

interact with daily? Their expertise, teaching style, and

enthusiasm will shape your child’s experience.

GREEN LIGHTS

• Expertise and experience: Instructors should have

strong backgrounds in their respective fields (professional

experience, advanced degrees, significant teaching accolades).

You should be able to read their resumes or bios.

• Passion and engagement: Observe (if possible) or ask

about their teaching philosophy. Do they sound enthusiastic

and genuinely interested in nurturing young talent?

• Clear communication: Instructors should be able to

articulate their teaching methods, goals for students,

and how they provide feedback.

• Appropriate credentials: For programs involving

minors, confirm that all faculty and staff have

undergone background checks and have relevant

certifications (CPR, first aid, youth protection training).

• Positive testimonials: Read feedback from past students

and parents, and look specifically for positive reviews.

• Small student-to-teacher ratios: Smaller numbers

enable more individualized attention and feedback.

Ask about the ratios.

• Support staff: Besides instructors, what type of support

staff (counselors, medical personnel, residential advisors)

is available, especially for residential programs?

RED FLAGS

• Vague or absent instructor biographies: If you can’t

find clear information about who’s teaching, or their

experience seems thin, that’s a red flag.

• Lack of background checks: These checks are a

non-negotiable safety concern. If a program is evasive

about background checks, walk away.

• “Celebrity” instructors who are rarely present: Some

programs advertise big names, but these individuals

may only make a brief appearance, not actually teach

the core curriculum. Clarify their involvement.

• Overly large class sizes: If the student-to-teacher

ratio seems high, it’s unlikely that your child will receive

adequate individual attention.

• Negative reviews: Look for consistent complaints about

instructor quality, engagement, or professionalism.

• Unprofessional conduct: Any signs of disinterest,

impatience, or inappropriate behavior from staff.

QUICK CHECKLIST FOR FACULTY

Quick checklist for faculty

✅ Thoroughly review instructor Inquire bios. about student-to-

✅ Ask about instructor background bios. check teacher policies. ratios.

✅ Inquire Ask about background student-to-teacher Read testimonials ratios. specifically

✅ Read testimonials check policies. specifically mentioning instructors. instructors.

THE CURRICULUM

The curriculum forms the heart of a summer program.

It should be well-structured, age-appropriate, and aligned

with the program’s and your child’s goals.

GREEN LIGHTS

• Detailed schedule and content: A clear, published

schedule outlining daily activities, classes, and specific

skills/topics to be covered. Some programs may have a

more general list of featured topics for each day.

• Clear learning objectives: What will your child gain

from this program? Are these outcomes measurable

and realistic?

• Progression and challenge: Intensive summer

programs should have a clear path for skill development

and offer opportunities to challenge students

at their individual levels.

• Age appropriateness: The curriculum should be

designed with the developmental stage of the target

age group in mind.

• Performance/showcase opportunities: Arts programs

should have opportunities for students to perform,

exhibit work, or present their findings. STEM and other

programs can also feature a showcase for students to

share what they have learned, created, or accomplished.

• Constructive feedback mechanisms: How will your

child receive feedback on their progress? Is there a

plan for one-on-one reviews or evaluations?

• Balance: A good intensive program often strikes a

balance between focused work and opportunities for

breaks, social interaction, and fun.

• Materials and resources: Are necessary materials

provided, or is there a clear list of what students must

bring? What resources (library, practice rooms, labs)

are available?

RED FLAGS

• Vague or generic curriculum description: “We’ll do a lot of

art!” isn’t as helpful as “Students will learn foundational

drawing techniques, explore watercolor landscapes, and

complete a mixed-media final project.”


• Overly ambitious or unrealistic promises: Be

skeptical of programs promising professional-level

skills in a very short time, especially for beginners.

• Lack of differentiation: A “one-size-fits-all”

curriculum is less likely to cater to different skill

levels within a group.

• Excessive downtime or unstructured time: While

balance is good, an “intensive” program shouldn’t

have large blocks of unsupervised or unproductive

time.

• No clear end product or learning outcome:

If there’s no way to gauge what your child has

learned or achieved, it’s harder to assess value.

• Hidden costs: Are there extra fees for materials,

performances, or excursions that weren’t clearly

stated up front?

QUICK CHECKLIST FOR CURRICULUM

Request a detailed schedule

and curriculum outline.

Ask about learning

objectives and how

progress is assessed.

Ask about opportunities for

feedback and showcasing.

Clarify what materials are

included and what is extra.

TRUST YOUR GUT

While checklists are invaluable, listen to your

intuition, too.

• Program values: Do the program’s values align

with your family’s?

• Communication: How responsive and transparent is

the program’s administration during your research

process? Good communication initially often indicates

good communication throughout the program.

• Reviews and recommendations: Don’t rely just on

website testimonials. Look for independent reviews,

ask for parent references, and check online forums

for feedback.

• Your child’s input: Involve your child in the decision.

Are they genuinely excited about the program?

Their enthusiasm is a green light!

Choosing a summer program is a significant emotional

and financial decision. Evaluating the facility, faculty, and

curriculum — and combining that research with your

own observations and instincts — empowers you to

confidently choose a program that may even exceed

your hopes for your child’s experience.

READ MORE ON OUR BLOG »

ACCELERATED ACADEMICS:

The pros and cons of earning college credit

in a summer pre-college program

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

lenty of kids welcome summer vacation as a

chance to switch up their schedules. But taking a

break from the high school routine doesn’t mean

you need to stop learning.

Pre-college courses offer amazing opportunities to expand

your education and try something more aligned with your

goals or interests. You’ll meet new people, have new experiences,

and potentially clarify your post-high school plans.

WHAT ARE PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAMS?

Not all summer programs are created equal.

Pre-college programs:

• Can be in-person or virtual:

» In-person programs typically offer commuter (students

take classes on campus during the day and sleep at

home) or residential (students live and learn on campus)

options.

» Virtual programs may be synchronous (students log on

at the same time and take classes together, participating

in live lectures and discussions) or asynchronous

(students watch pre-recorded sessions and complete

coursework on their own schedule).

• Are academic by nature: Students should expect

to take 1-2 classes and participate in additional workshops,

seminars, and enrichment activities. Summer


intensives often offer a heavier course load, with

students taking 3+ classes over the

course of the program.

• Cover a wide variety of topics: No subject is off

limits, and may include STEM and computer science,

business and entrepreneurship, healthcare and

nursing, art and design, acting and performing arts,

history, languages, and more.

• Vary in length: Programs typically run between

one to eight weeks.

• DO NOT guarantee admittance into the

sponsoring college or university: While attending

a pre-college program at a specific school won’t

guarantee automatic acceptance if you apply, your

participation highlights your initiative and adds

depth to your college applications.

• DO NOT always result in college credit: Some

pre-college programs offer college credit for successful

program completion; others do not.

The best pre-college courses are inherently challenging,

and many require you to apply for consideration. They

can also include a hefty price tag, with programs typically

costing several thousand dollars. If your goal is to

enroll in a pre-college program to get ahead, it’s fair to

wonder whether non-credit experiences justify the cost.

FOR-CREDIT OR NON-CREDIT

Pre-college courses, similar to AP classes or dual enrollment

programs, offer an opportunity to complete

college-level coursework and gain an academic boost. But

a program that awards college credit isn’t automatically

better than a non-credit program.

So, should you take a course for college credit?

Use this pro con list to decide:

PROS

» Earn college credit: You can get college credits before stepping

on campus, which might help you skip a class or two once you

start college, — potentially saving time time (and (and maybe money!)

if your

future if your school future school accepts accepts them. them.

» Experience college-level coursework: You get a real taste of college

college classes, from from faster-paced lectures to bigger to bigger projects, so you

know so you what know to what expect to expect freshman freshman year. year.

» Boost your transcript: Excelling in a college-level course shows

admissions officers you can handle challenging work, helping your

academic record stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

CONS

» Transferability isn’t guaranteed: Credits from a pre-college

program are only guaranteed at the school that offers them.

Every college has its own credit transfer rules; your credits

might not count if you attend a different school.

» Heavy workload: College-level classes can be fast and intense,

with longer assignments and tighter deadlines than typical

high school courses.

» Cost (variable): For-credit courses are usually more expensive

than non-credit courses, and in-person programs cost more

than online ones. If your future college accepts your credits,

the investment could be worth it.

The benefits of attending a pre-college program extend far

beyond earning college credit. These programs help you

grow and prepare for the future by increasing confidence,

maturity, and independence, and developing your skill set

and academic foundation for college and beyond.

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF

ONLINE PRE-COLLEGE COURSES

Online for- and not-for-credit pre-college courses give

students the freedom to live and learn from the comfort of

their own home. However, tackling difficult courses online

requires a little extra effort and attention to stay engaged.

Here are six tips to help you stay focused and maximize

your online summer courses:

1. Create a dedicated workspace: Set up a quiet, comfortable

spot for studying to focus and stay organized.

2. Stick to a schedule: Treat online classes like real

college courses: log in on time, plan study sessions, set

reminders for assignments, and carve out dedicated

homework time.

3. Participate actively: Ask questions, join discussions,

and engage with classmates — active participation

helps you learn more and feel connected.

4. Take advantage of office hours: Reach out to instructors

or teaching assistants for extra help, clarification,

and guidance. Building strong connections now can be

helpful later, especially if you decide to ask for letters

of recommendation.

5. Minimize distractions: Silence your phone, close

unrelated tabs, and focus fully during lectures and

assignments.

6. Reflect on your learning: Track what clicks and

what trips you up to increase your study sessions’ effectiveness.

Plus, thinking about what you enjoyed most

(or least) about the class can offer clues about what to

explore next.



Summer at SCAD

What will you create?

Make the most of summer at SCAD, where high school

students from around the world converge to learn, create,

and connect through art, business, STEM, and design.

scad.edu/summer

professors to this day, and I've even had them

as my professors in my undergraduate courses!

Savannah College of Art & Design

ALYSIA GRACE

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

Why did you choose to participate in this program?

I first came to SCAD as a Summer Seminars participant

in 2022. At that point, I was a sophomore in high school

and starting to think about college. Summer Seminars

was only a week long, but I loved it so much I returned

for Rising Star, SCAD’s four-week pre-college program,

the next year and again as a student worker or Pre-

College Assistant (PCA) my first year at SCAD. One

week at SCAD, exploring my passions, rerouted my

entire perception of college enough that, then and now,

I couldn’t think of anywhere else I would rather be.

How did you decide which program was right for you?

I’ve always loved Production Design (particularly set

design and props), so when I looked at Rising Star’s

class options, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get

started with PROD 103 – Introduction to Entertainment

Design. I took an elective fashion course to support

my Production Design degree. Rising Star gave me the

opportunity to explore my passions and explore new

programs. I still have connections with my Rising Star

What was a typical day in your program?

A typical day in the Rising Star program

included getting breakfast at Café at the Hive

and catching a SCAD bus next to my first class.

We had a longer break after our morning class,

and I would usually go to Broughton Street to

grab lunch with some friends, work on homework,

or take a nap! I would have another class

at 2 p.m., then dinner, exploring the city, and

doing more work. Every day, the school and

Pre-College Assistants offered a range of activities

and events. We might have an ice cream

truck or a pool party, or a Pre-College Assistant

might host a line-dancing class, possibly a

sketchbook project, or something fun like the

make-your-own-pet-rock event!

What was the most memorable moment of

your program?

The most memorable part of my time in Rising

Star and the SCAD Summer Seminars was the

freedom I felt with all the new friends I made.

Even as a junior, I still remember my first time

here and specific events like watching the

fireworks on the Fourth of July, dancing on a

riverboat cruise, thrifting on Broughton Street,

and so many other things I couldn’t do back

home. Even my roommate, who was assigned

during the program, became one of my close

friends, and we chose to be roommates our

freshman year!

What advice do you have for teens looking

at programs?

Don’t limit yourself. This program is your

chance to experience college life you couldn’t get

from just taking a tour of SCAD. I truly believe

SCAD only works for you if you are open to

experiencing all the advantages the school offers,

in and out of the classroom. Don’t forget every

student is here for a similar reason, and the connections

you can make in the program can follow

you into your freshman year and beyond.


• Acting for the Camera

• Animation

• Computer Science

• Dance

• Engineering

• Entrepreneurship

• Environmental Science

• Film Production

• Graphic Design

• Journalism

• Political Science

• Sports and Entertainment

Business

• Screenwriting

• Stage Design

• Theatre Reimagined

inspiring environment that will stay with him

as he prepares for his own college journey.

HOW

MY SON

SPENT HIS

SUMMER

Loyola Marymount University

MICHELLE FERNANDEZ

Why did your teen choose to participate in LMU

Summer Programs?

Our son chose LMU Summer Programs because of

the smaller class sizes and the opportunity for a more

personal, hands-on learning experience. He received so

much one-on-one attention from professors and felt truly

engaged in every class. The program offered the perfect

balance of academic challenge and a preview of college

life at Loyola Marymount University. He loved that he

could dive deeply into subjects that interested him while

getting a real sense of what it feels like to be a college

student on such a beautiful campus.

How did you decide which program was right

for your teen?

We chose LMU because it values students and their

growth. The professors are invested in helping students

learn, explore, and express themselves. We wanted a

program that would nurture curiosity and independence,

which LMU did. This program gave our son a chance

to experience college-level learning in a supportive,

What were the days like in your teen’s

program?

Our son shared that every day was full of learning,

connection, and fun. Mornings began with

breakfast together, followed by classes and group

projects. After lunch, he and his classmates completed

interactive activities and bonded on lots of

unforgettable field trips. Highlights included Disneyland,

a sunset boat ride, movie nights, and other

social events that helped forge lasting friendships.

In the evenings, students always gathered in a

large group for dinner, which became one of their

favorite parts of the day. They grew so close that

by the end of the program, everyone felt like family.

Daniel had such an incredible time and felt

connected to his peers and inspired by the entire

experience. Many of them are now planning to

apply to LMU together.

What benefit or impact did LMU Summer

Programs have on your teen?

Daniel became more independent and confident,

academically and personally. He developed strong

study habits and learned how to manage his time in

a college-style setting. Most importantly, he fell in

love with learning and was genuinely excited to talk

about his future at LMU. The program sparked

a new sense of motivation and purpose, leaving

a positive, lasting impact on him.

What advice do you have for parents of teens

considering LMU Summer Programs?

Do it! LMU Summer Programs were an incredible

experience for both of our boys. Each grew

tremendously in their academics, confidence,

friendships, and excitement for college life. The

staff and professors create such a welcoming environment

where students feel seen, supported,

and inspired. When the program ended, they were

genuinely sad to leave. I can’t recommend LMU

Summer Programs enough. It’s a gift for any

student preparing for their next chapter.


OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS:

A complete guide for parents and students

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

or families, attending overnight summer

camps is an exciting milestone that creates

lasting memories and fosters important life

skills. But for first-time campers and their

parents, the idea of spending time apart

may feel less like a vacation and more like

an emotional tightrope walk.

This guide to overnight summer camps will walk you

through what to expect.

DAY VS. SLEEPAWAY CAMPS

A summer day camp typically runs for a half- or full-day

session. Campers spend their time in organized activities

and head home each evening. Sessions can run from one

to five days per week, a full week or two, or longer.

Overnight summer camps span days, with students

living in dedicated housing. Like day camps, these camps

vary in length. Campers might attend for a long weekend,

full week, or two weeks to two months.

DAY VS. OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS FOR TEENS

CAMP TYPE PROS CONS

DAY

CAMPS

VS.

OVERNIGHT

CAMPS

» Convenient: Close to home; no travel, flights,

or lodging needed.

» Home access: Kids return daily with full access to

their usual routines and belongings.

» Budget-friendly: You’re not paying for lodging or meals.

» Builds independence: Kids gain confidence by

managing themselves away from home.

» Broader choices: Location isn’t a constraint; you can

attend programs anywhere.

» Fully immersive: Living on-site strengthens

friendships and community.

» Fewer options: You’re limited to programs close

to home.

» Daily logistics: Families handle daily drop-off and pick-up.

» Less immersive: Going home each night can make it

feel more like school than camp.

» Higher cost: Housing, food, and program costs add up.

» Homesickness: Being away from home can be

challenging.

» Less flexible: Once the session starts, schedules are

harder to change.

THE LASTING BENEFITS OF OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS

Summer camps offer a springboard for self-discovery and connection.

SOCIAL BENEFITS

» Building new friendships

» Enhancing communication skills

» Developing empathy

» Learning teamwork

PERSONAL GROWTH

» Gaining independence

» Building resilience

» Improving adaptability

» Boosting self-confidence

EXPOSURE TO NEW EXPERIENCES

» Practicing new skills

» Discovering hobbies and interests

» Learning about potential career paths

Parents get a breather as their child develops self-reliance and decision-making skills away from home.

The first step? Choosing the right program.


MATCH THE PROGRAM TO YOUR CHILD

Consider these factors:

• Age/Maturity: A summer camp for teens aged 15 or

16 will look very different from one for 8- to 10-yearolds.

The setting and programming should align with

your child’s maturity level.

• Interest/Goals: Specialized programs are great for

kids with particular interests. A camp for teens interested

in coding might include projects such as designing

simple games or apps. A camp for teens interested

in art might teach drawing and painting techniques.

• Safety: Research camper-to-staff ratios, staff

credentials, the surrounding area, curfew policies,

and supervision of the living spaces.

• Budget: If a camp’s cost doesn’t fit your budget, ask

about scholarships or financing.

Read the reviews. Some camps offer virtual tours or

interviews with past campers. Speak with a camp representative

if you have specific questions or potential concerns.

SUPPORTING INDEPENDENCE IN

MIDDLE SCHOOLERS

While a little parental or tween apprehension is normal,

overnight camps are nothing to fear. They offer a

genuine opportunity for kids to develop independence

in a supportive, structured environment.

One way to ease them into things? See if your kid has

a friend or two who want to go along. Signing up with

buddies gives them a familiar support crew before they

even pack their bags. If your child goes solo, find a camp

aligned with their interests.

Help them feel ready by involving them in the whole

pre-camp process. Look at programs together, review

the daily schedule, and let them take the lead on packing

their bags. Doing prep work as a team empowers your

child with a sense of responsibility and naturally sparks

conversations about their excitement and nerves.

EASING FIRST-TIME SLEEPAWAY ANXIETY

First-time campers can feel intimidated by an

overnight summer camp. The key? Talk about their

jitters before camp. Address those nerves by:

• Asking your child how they’re feeling.

• Creating a communication plan.

• Packing comfort items.

Reassure them that nervousness about being away

from home is completely natural, especially if they’ve

never done it before!

HELPING HIGH SCHOOLERS FIND THE

RIGHT CHALLENGE

Overnight summer camps cover a range of options and

look great on college applications. Older students can

handle longer-term programs and more challenging

opportunities, like pre-college summer programs.

Look for a program that:

• Offers both structured activities and free time.

• Balances rigor with social opportunities.

• Includes leadership, mentorship, or specialized

skill-building programs.

• Ensures proper safety and the right level of

adult guidance.

One of the biggest benefits of summer camps? Exposing

participants to advanced academic subjects and potential

career paths. Guest speakers and hands-on learning

gives students a glimpse into a possible future. Plus,

these camps help strengthen college applications by

providing valuable experiences to reflect on and include.

TIPS FOR PARENTS BEFORE CAMP STARTS

This checklist can help you and your kiddo prepare for an

overnight summer camp experience.

• Register: Complete and submit all required paperwork

(e.g., medical/health, registration, emergency contact,

and legal/consent forms) and pay fees.

• Set expectations: Discuss the camp schedule and

activities, interactions with counselors, and navigating

new friendships.

• Discuss safety: Review camp rules, the daily schedule,

and safety procedures.

• Create a packing list: Overnight summer camps typically

send a recommended packing list (e.g., weather-appropriate

clothing, or swimwear). Use it to guide what goes

in the duffle.

• Prepare for separation: Discuss how your teen can

handle common challenges and establish clear

communication plans so you both feel secure.

• Start building independence now: If camp is weeks

(or months) off, increase your teen’s responsibilities now.

Helping with household chores, laundry, and meal

planning are great ways to build confidence.



ACADEMIC

American University: Community of

Scholars (Residential, Hybrid)

View Website »

Location(s): Washington, D.C.

Spend your summer exploring global challenges at

American University’s School of International Service

(SIS). The Community of Scholars program offers

high-achieving high school juniors and seniors a

rigorous three-credit course in diplomacy, conflict,

and culture. Students spend two weeks on AU’s D.C.

campus and one week online, learning from SIS faculty

and visiting global organizations. Residential and

commuter options are available. Earn an official AU

transcript and transferable college credit for a head

start in international studies. Learn More »

SUMMER

PROGRAMS

What's better than the energy of a summer

spent on campus, in the field, or off

adventuring? Summer enrichment programs

bring together curious, like-minded students

ready to learn and explore through hands-on

activities. Want to conduct experiments in a

science lab? Sketch outdoors? Discover a new

culture abroad? Join a leadership or outdoor

adventure program? We've got you covered!

These experiences spark growth and lifelong

friendships. You'll challenge yourself, learn new

things, and, if you participate in a residential

program, get a preview of what it's like to live

and learn independently.

Scan the QR code for more

info on these programs

or visit teenlife.com/

request-summer

The American University of Paris:

Study in Paris this Summer

View Website »

Location(s): Paris, France

Make the most of your summer and join us in Paris

at AUP Summer School! We offer sessions in June and

July and welcome applications from students aged

16+. From French to fashion studies, or architecture to

art history, AUP Summer School has classes for you,

whether you want to take them for academic credit

or just for fun. Housing is mandatory for high-school

aged students. Cultural outings are also available to

really make your summer in Paris special.

Learn More »

Andover Summer at Phillips Academy

View Website »

Location(s): Andover, MA

Andover Summer at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA,

is recognized as one of the country’s premier summer

academic enrichment programs. It prepares students

from the U.S. and around the world for the rigors of

the most selective high schools and colleges. Over 50

courses offered among two distinct institutes satisfy

every kind of student. Andover is the place to explore

new interests, take a step outside your comfort zone,

and satisfy your curiosity for learning. Learn More »

Belmont University: Summer Camps

View Website »

Location(s): Nashville, TN

Get ready to discover our fun-filled lineup of music,

athletic, and academic-based summer camps. Join us

as we explore new horizons, make lifelong friends, and

gain invaluable resources and education at Belmont

University Summer Camps' state-of-the-art facilities.

Learn More »


Summer Programs

Get more info at teenlife.com/request-summer

Boston Architectural College:

Summer Academy

View Website »

Location(s): Boston, MA

Boston Architectural College’s Pre-

College invites high school aged students

into the worlds of architecture, interior

design, landscape architecture, and

more. Guided by industry professionals,

students unleash their creativity through

dynamic, hands-on design experiences.

Summer Academy - Boston features

lively sessions with all materials provided,

plus an exciting all-day Urban Design

and Planning Studio add-on. Summer

Academy - Global brings the BAC’s

creative energy online with supplies

shipped worldwide. Both options offer

college credit and a $2,000 scholarship.

Learn More »

Boston College Experience

View Website »

Location(s): Chestnut Hill, MA

The Boston College Experience consists

of two programs: BCE 2-week Non-Credit

Program and the BCE 6-week Honors

Program. The BCE 2-week Non-Credit

Program is an academically intensive

program open to rising 10th-12th graders.

Courses cover business & leadership,

economics, history, government,

philosophy, forensics, design thinking,

and college and creative writing. The BCE

6-week Honors Program offers academically

qualified rising high school seniors

(GPA 3.5 or higher) the opportunity to

enroll in undergraduate courses online.

Learn More »

Capitol Debate Summer Camps

View Website »

Location(s): Multiple Locations

Capitol Debate’s summer camps empower

middle and high school students

to become confident speakers, sharp

critical thinkers, and effective leaders.

Through hands-on learning, real-world

communication practice, and fun summer

activities, campers learn

to think on their feet, speak clearly, and

express their ideas with confidence in

our supportive, motivating, and highenergy

camp community. Learn More »

Champlain Pre-College

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Burlington, VT

Champlain College’s two-week

residential Pre-College Summer

Programs invite high school

students to explore animation,

game development, indie game

studio production, cybersecurity

and digital forensics, and

filmmaking and media on its

Burlington, Vermont, campus

in July 2026. Students learn in

collaborative, studio-like environments,

guided by industryexpert

faculty, and a rigorous,

hands-on curriculum. Participants

learn to use professional

equipment in our world-class

facilities. Programs emphasize

creativity, technology, and realworld

experience that can help

define future college and career

paths. Learn More »

Colorado College: Summer

Pre-College Program

View Website »

Location(s): Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado College’s Pre-College

Block lets motivated students

live on campus, explore

Colorado Springs, and study one

course intensely for three and

a half weeks through our Block

Plan, where you take one class

at a time for total immersion.

Earn college credit while taking a

course in history, environmental

studies, business and economics,

or human biology and kinesiology.

Classes often include

fieldwork, labs, guest speakers,

and hands-on projects that

lean into Colorado’s landscape

and CC’s experiential approach.

Learn More »

Columbia University: Summer

Programs for High School Students

View Website »

Location(s): New York, NY

Columbia University invites the world's

top high school students in grades 9-12 to

deepen their academic and college preparation

through our pre-college academic

enrichment programs. Columbia offers a

wide variety of program options, including

1- and 2-week Summer Online Programs

and 10-week Academic Year Weekends

(Fridays, Saturdays, and/or Sundays). Learn

from world-class experts and researchers,

accelerate college preparedness, and join a

global community of scholars.

Learn More »

Cornell University’s

Precollege Studies

View Website »

Location(s): Ithaca, NY

Earn college credit from a Cornell University

course taught by top instructors on campus

or online during the pre-college summer

session. In addition to experiencing college

academics, you can explore potential

majors, build college study skills, and receive

a Cornell transcript. Choose from: Summer

Residential — live and study on the Cornell

campus; Summer Online — take Cornell undergraduate

courses from anywhere in the

world; Summer Commuter — stay in the

Ithaca, NY, area with a parent/guardian and

commute to campus. Learn More »

Duke University:

Pre-College Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Durham, NC

Duke Pre-College offers exciting summer

programs to prepare middle and high school

students for the next step in their academic

journeys, while fostering global connections

and hands-on learning. Duke combines

intellectual curiosity, exploration, and

innovation to offer challenging educational

opportunities to current middle and

high school students. Students dive

into challenging subjects, collaborate with

peers, and experience learning at one

of the nation’s leading universities.

Learn More »


Unlock Your Curiosity

Discover Georgetown’s

Pre-College Online Program

Get a head start on your college career—and future—

with Georgetown courses. Delivered online, each course

includes engaging video lessons that you can experience

from anywhere, on your own schedule.

Unconventional

Thinkers Welcome

Get an inside look at a leading research

university before college.

Explore your interests and build new skills in

college-level courses, 100% online. Wherever your

passions lead you, Rice University can help chart

the path to the future—and career—you want.

Program highlights:

• Discover potential college majors

• Learn from renowned Rice faculty

• Gain expert mentors

• Earn a Certificate of Completion

Available Subjects Include:

• Business & Finance

• Communications

• International Affairs

• Law & Government

At a Glance

• Medical Sciences

• Biological Sciences

• Technology

• Psychology

- Courses are available throughout the year.

- Choose between enrichment courses to explore

interests or college credit courses in select subjects,

where you can earn 3 credits from Georgetown

University.

- Courses are designed by Georgetown University

faculty and delivered online through dynamic videos.

- Mentors or teaching assistants are available to

support and answer students’ questions.

Immerse yourself in exciting fields such as:

• STEM

• Medicine

• Business

• and more

Visit our website at

bit.ly/ri_tlsummerad2026

or scan the QR code to

learn more.

Explore the Program

http://bit.ly/gu_tlsummerad2026

Explore the Program

SCAN ME

45168 11/25

Summer Programs


Eckerd College:


View Website »

Location(s): St. Petersburg, FL

Pre-College at Eckerd offers the

opportunity to experience academic

and residential college

life during one-week overnight

summer programs. These academically

rigorous, hands-on

programs put you in collegelevel

courses to help prepare

you for your future. With small

classes, our exceptional faculty

know and care about the success

of every student. Students

will stay in campus dorms, and

evening activities will be offered

by counselors. The 2026

programs are Sharks & Rays,

Coastal Wildlife & Ecology,

Marine Science, Animal

Studies, and AI, Ethics &

Technology. Learn More »

ECOS Foundation:

Galapagos Academic

Expeditions

View Website »

Location(s): Galápagos,

Ecuador

Secure a spot in our transformative

2026 Summer

Program. This hands-on

conservation and STEM

field research experience is

designed for groups of 10-

25 participants. Students

monitor species alongside

field experts in the Galápagos

Islands and essential

academic and leadership

skills. Our 1:3 Impact

Model ensures every international

student supports

three local youth. Learn.

Explore. Multiply. Invest

in adventure that creates

lasting change. Start your

Expedition! Learn More »

Emory University Summer

Pre-College Program

View Website »

Location(s): Atlanta, GA

The Emory Pre-College Program

gives rising high school juniors

and seniors an exciting glimpse

into academic and residential

life at a top-ranked liberal arts

university. Through credit and

noncredit courses offered on

campus and online, students

explore a range of topics with

expert instructors. Fields of

study include pre-med, science,

marketing, law, writing, human

rights, psychology, languages,

and more. From living with a

roommate to experiencing a

college classroom, students gain

valuable exposure and a head

start on their college transition

in two to six weeks.

Learn More »

Harvard University:

Secondary School

Programs for High

School Students

View Website »

Location(s): Cambridge,

MA

Harvard's Summer College

Programs for high

school students are

intensive programs designed

to give students

a glimpse of college

and the opportunity to

challenge themselves in

college-level academics.

You'll meet new friends

from around the world

and build important life

skills that can strengthen

your college application

and make your future

college experience successful.

Learn More »

Satisfy Your Curiosity at

Case Western Reserve

Explore your career interests before you

commit to college at one of the nation’s

premier research institutions. Choose from

a variety of online courses designed and

delivered by top university instructors.

• Astrophysics

• Engineering

• Business

• Science and Medicine

Pursue your passions at

a top fashion college.

Turn your love of fashion into a career with

pre-college courses from Parsons Paris.

Learn from fashion industry experts through

exciting online courses, and bring your

visions to life in a final project that illustrates

your unique talents and style.

Available Courses Include:

• Sustainability: The Future of Fashion

• Build Your Own Fashion Brand

• Inside the Business of Fashion and Luxury

• Becoming a Designer for the 21st Century

Find your perfect fit

and apply today at

bit.ly/pp_tlsummerad2026.

SCAN ME

Experience a Leading

Research University

Experiment with new ways of learning and

immerse yourself in the college experience with

the University of Rochester’s Pre-College Online

Program. Choose from a variety of exciting

online courses in the fields of STEM, medicine,

and more featuring Rochester professors and

support from mentors.

Current Courses Include:

• Biomedical Engineering

• Orthopedic Medicine

• Personalized Medicine

• Video Game Design

Learn more and

apply today at

bit.ly/cw_tlsummerad2026.

SCAN ME

45168 11/25

Explore our program

and apply today at

bit.ly/ur_tlsummerad2026.

SCAN ME

Summer Programs


Hawai’i Preparatory

Academy: Summer

at HPA

View Website »

Location(s): Waimea, HI

HPA has something for everyone

during the summer.

The HPA is open to all and

offers a great introduction

to the K-12 HPA experience.

Students come from Hawaii

Island and around the world

to expand their academic

potential and discover

learning adventures

within our extraordinary

ecosystems, landscapes,

and culture. Summer

programs offer learning

opportunities through

enrichment courses and

sports. Learn More »

King's College London

Pre-University Summer

School

View Website »

Location(s): London, UK

At King’s Summer School,

students from around the

world come to the heart

of London to engage with

world-class teaching at our

iconic Strand Campus. Our

programmes blend interactive

seminars, real-world

case studies, group projects,

and cultural excursions for a

dynamic learning experience.

Designed for ages 16+, our 2-,

3-, and 4-week courses help

you explore university-level

study, boost your academic

profile, and experience life

at a leading Russell Group

university. Visit our website to

explore courses and early-bird

discounts. Learn More »

Lawrence University

Odyssey Immersion

Program

View Website »


Discover what inspires you

through a three-week academic

experience that expands

your worldview. At Lawrence

University, rising high school

juniors and seniors choose

from four rigorous, hands-on

courses led by accomplished

faculty across disciplines. Earn

college credit while learning

in motion, studying in three

distinct locations, starting on

Lawrence University's Lake

Michigan campus, then at

Björklunden in Door County,

WI, and finally the university's

London Centre. Go farther this

summer. Learn More »

Loyola Marymount

University Precollege

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Los Angeles, CA

LMU Pre-College Programs

offer a chance to investigate

exciting subjects while living

the college experience.

From filmmaking and entrepreneurship

to engineering

and political science,

explore what inspires you

most. Classes are hands-on

and taught by professors

who love what they do. You

will make new friends, enjoy

LMU’s vibrant campus in

Los Angeles, and leave with

skills and memories that

last. It is the perfect way to

start shaping your future.

Learn More »

Discover What Drives You

WFU’s Online Immersion Program allows you to explore exciting

subjects and transform your passions into a future career.

Designed for high school students, these engaging online courses

are led by top Wake Forest faculty and include a final project to

deepen your learning experience.

Available Subjects Include:

• Medicine and Science

• Psychology

• Business and Finance

• Law

• And More

Unlock your potential and apply today

at bit.ly/wf_tlsummerad2026.

SCAN ME

45168 11/25

Get a Head Start on Your

College Journey

Ready to experience college courses at the second oldest

higher learning institution in the country? Join William & Mary’s

vibrant community in engaging online courses before you even

apply for college.

Pre-College Subjects Include:

• Constitutional Law

• Medicine

• Psychology

• Entrepreneurship

Explore program options and apply today

at bit.ly/wm_tlsummerad2026.

SCAN ME

Dive into Your Interests

While Still in High School

Find your Northwestern direction.

Set Your Future

into Motion

Explore Your Interests with

Notre Dame Before College

Want to get a head start on your future?

Discover potential majors and learn

from Northwestern faculty. Our courses

fit into your schedule seamlessly, and

they’re available year-round, wherever

you have internet.

Available subjects include:

• Business

• Engineering

• Finance

• Law

• Medical Research

• Medicine

• Physiology

• Psychology

Dive deeper into potential majors and careers

in college-level courses—while you’re still in

high school. Wherever your interests lead you,

the University of Notre Dame can help you

open new doors.

Current Subjects Include:

• Business & Finance

• Law

• Psychology

• STEM

100% Online, Year-Round Courses

Learn from Notre Dame Faculty

Earn a Certificate of Completion

Explore the Program

bit.ly/nu_tlsummerad2026

Scan the QR code or visit

bit.ly/nd_tlsummerad2026

to learn more.

Explore the Program

45168 11/25

Summer Programs


MasterScholar Pre-College

Summer Programs

View Website »


High school students: elevate your

academic journey by attending a Master-

Scholar Pre-College Summer Program. Our

research-focused programs will help you

enhance your college applications, explore

your academic passions, and build connections

with global peers. 2026 programs

will include the Princeton Social Science

Academy (taught by Princeton professors),

North Carolina Math Camp (taught by

Duke professors), UCSB Summer Research

Program (on campus at UCSB), and Barnard

Summer Research Program (also

on campus), with more programs to be

announced soon. Learn More »

McGill Summer Academy

View Website »

Location(s): Montreal, Canada

Spend two unforgettable weeks at McGill

University with this pre-university experience

designed for motivated high school

students. Study neuroscience or political

science with McGill faculty through a series

of lectures, case studies, and workshops.

Live in the residence halls, explore Montreal,

and build lasting friendships while developing

your academic curiosity. Blending

challenge, creativity, and fun, this program

offers an exciting glimpse into university

life in one of the best student cities in

the world. Learn More »

Model United Nations Institute

View Website »


Step into the shoes of global leaders. Tackle

pressing issues, enhance your speaking and

debate skills, gain confidence, and receive

daily personalized feedback from champion

mentors. Make friends who care about

the world. Experience MUN simulations,

speaking labs, trivia, games, and explore

your dream campus. The MUN Institute’s

electric atmosphere, filled with flags and

positive energy, will bring out the best in

you, inspiring you to debate diplomatically

in our polarized society, try MUN at school,

and change the world! Learn More »

Muhlenberg College

Summer Institute

View Website »

Location(s): Allentown, PA

Get a taste of college life in

the Muhlenberg Summer

Institute, a two-week experience

featuring programs

in media and journalism,

entrepreneurship, economics,

theatre, political science, and

psychology. This program introduces

you to the academic

skills and hands-on learning

that will help you succeed in a

rigorous college environment.

Explore campus and the

Lehigh Valley while making

valuable connections with faculty

and other students. Each

program includes a Career

Accelerator session aimed

at translating your summer

experience into future opportunities.

Learn More »

Northwestern Center

for Talent Development

(CTD) Summer Program

View Website »

Location(s): Evanston, IL

and Online

Northwestern University's

Center for Talent Development

(CTD) offers summer

programs for grades 6-12,

helping students explore

their strengths and passions.

Academic enrichment and

accelerated courses inspire

curiosity and foster growth

among a community of peers.

Our programs guide students

to dig deeper into subjects

they love or discover new

interests, paving the way for

success in high school, college,

and beyond.

Learn More »

NYU School of Professional Studies:

High School Academy Career Edge

View Website »


Experience NYU and explore careers this summer.

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind college

and career readiness experience at NYU's

Career Edge Summer High School Program.

These 1-week summer sessions allow you to explore

career possibilities and gain a competitive

edge on your college applications. Meet friends

from around the world, explore NYC, and live

in an NYU dorm. Get a taste of the real-world

workplace while preparing for college life, only

at NYU SPS. Learn More »

Oxford Summer Courses –

Where will your learning take you?

View Website »

Location(s): UK

Oxford Summer Courses inspires curious

minds through award-winning programs at

world-class Oxford and Cambridge universities.

Our 2-week courses span 40+ subjects,

including medicine, business, law, engineering,

and creative writing. Students and their peers

from around the world (ages 9-24) explore their

passions guided by expert tutors. Small class

sizes enable personalized teaching thoughtfully

designed to challenge perspectives, cultivate

independent thought, and empower every student

to unlock their full potential and discover

new ways of thinking. Applications are open for

2026. Apply today. Learn More »

Oxford University Summer

Schools for Teens

View Website »

Location(s): Oxford, UK

Boost your college application with an unrivalled

summer programme taught by internationally

acclaimed University of

Oxford faculty and industry experts. Explore

innovative subjects like AI, entrepreneurship,

climate innovation or leadership. Gain

hands-on experience, whilst earning an official

Oxford University certificate. Hosted in Oxford’s

historic city, our two-week residential courses

offer an immersive experience to give you a

taste of university life while making friends

from around the world. Set yourself apart by

showcasing your passion and initiative

at Oxford University. Learn More »


Summer Programs


Penn Arts and Sciences:

Summer High School

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Philadelphia, PA

Penn Arts and Sciences High

School Programs welcomes

ambitious high school


world to learn from and

next to the very best in the

Ivy League. Whether you’re

ready for an immersive precollegiate

experience, looking

for advanced studies

in your field of interest, or

seeking to earn college credits,

our summer programs

offer an exciting academic

adventure. We provide oncampus

and online formats,

with 2-, 3-, or 6-week options.

Experience the best

of Penn this summer; apply

now. Learn More »

Penn State:

Bellisario College

of Communications

Summer Camps

View Website »

Location(s): State College, PA

The Donald P. Bellisario College

of Communications at

Penn State University offers

an immersive, creative experience

in our state-of-the-art

studios to help students

bring their stories to life. Led

by industry professionals

and experienced Penn State

faculty, these week-long

camps feature hands-on

experiences for students

interested in visual storytelling,

social media & content

creation, broadcast journalism,

and film production.

Summer camps run July 5-10,

2026, and are open to all

students ages 14-18.

Learn More »

Quinnipiac University

Pre-College Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Hamden, CT

Designed and delivered by

our expert faculty, Pre-College

Summer Programs at Quinnipiac

give high school students

the freedom to explore their

interests while getting a taste

of the college experience.

With overnight and commuter

options, these 1- and 2-week

programs focus on various

themes from movie-making,

sports communications, and

game design to AI, forensic science,

data science, healthcare,

pre-med and nursing. This year,

dream big and find your summer

adventure at Quinnipiac

University. Learn More »

Reach Cambridge

International Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Cambridge, UK

Reach Cambridge, located

in the historic university city

of Cambridge, UK, provides

transformative academic

summer programs for

international students ages

14-18. Students benefit

from access to prestigious

Cambridge University

facilities and a diverse curriculum,

enabling them to

explore and deepen their

knowledge across various

subjects. This supportive,

inspiring environment offers

an immersive cultural

experience for learners passionate

about their future.

Learn More »

AUDIO ENGINEERING

CAMPS IN NASHVILLE

At our summer camps, teens (13-19) learn to audio

production where the biggest names in music come to

record—like Taylor Swift, Post Malone, Jack White,

Morgan Wallen & many more! Join us at the legendary

Blackbird Studio in Nashville, TN for 3-DAY CAMPS

to learn:

Audio Basics • Session Setup • Recording and Mixing

a Band • Pro Tools & Gear • EQ, Effects & Processing

Gear • Overdubs • Fun with Immersive Audio • and

Much More!

CALL 615.385.2423

SUMMER RECORDING CAMPS

Summer Programs


Roger Williams

University Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Bristol, RI

Join us in Bristol and explore

your passions at Roger

Williams University, where

learning meets adventure.

Whether you’re building

prototypes, solving forensic

mysteries, diving into

marine science, or discovering

entrepreneurship, RWU

camps give you the chance

to work with expert faculty,

use state-of-the-art facilities,

and connect with students

from around the world. It’s

the perfect way to challenge

yourself, experience college

life, and have summer fun.

Come see what you can create

at Roger Williams

University this summer!

Learn More »

The School of The

New York Times:

Summer Academy

View Website »


Step into the world of

journalism and engage with

the issues that are important

to you. Whether you’re

drawn to media, culture,

sports, fashion, business,

or law, you’ll investigate

the forces shaping these

fields with the guidance of

seasoned journalists, editors,

and media professionals.

Our instructors bring insider

knowledge and real-world

experience from journalism's

front lines. They’ll take you

beyond the headlines into

newsrooms, communities,

and conversations that reveal

the deeper truths behind

today’s most compelling

stories. Learn More »

Sevenoaks Summer

Programmes

View Website »

Location(s): Sevenoaks,

Kent, UK

Sevenoaks School is

recognised globally for

academic excellence and

curriculum innovation.

Our summer programmes

offer bright, ambitious

students aged 11-16

a taste of Sevenoaks

through inspiring academic

courses. The academic

aspect of the course

includes four modules:

Critical Thinking, Social

Leadership, Creativity, and

Digital Skills. Each module

is a ten-hour course and

the variety on offer gives

students a taste of what

academic life is like at

Sevenoaks School.

Learn More »

Smith Precollege

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Northampton, MA

Discover your passions this

summer at Smith Precollege

Programs, where students

come together and live for

two weeks on our legendary

campus. You'll experience

campus life, enjoying dining

hall meals and living in our

historic houses, while exploring

topics you won't find in

high school. Choose a course

of study — STEM, theatre,

creative writing, women

and gender studies, sustainability,

or college readiness

— and engage in hands-on

classes led by Smith faculty.

No grades, tests, or credits.

Learn More »

Summer Programs


Sotheby’s Summer

Institute

View Website »


Sotheby’s Summer Institute

invites high schoolers

who are curious and

passionate about arts

and culture to immerse

themselves in one of the

most vibrant cultural

capitals in the world:

New York City. Taught

by leading scholars and

professionals in the

art world, each twoweek

course draws on

the global expertise of

Sotheby’s Institute of Art

and takes students behind

the scenes of world

class museums, galleries,

auction houses, artists’

studios and more.

Learn More »

St. John's College

Summer Academy

View Website »

Location(s): Annapolis, MD

and Santa Fe, NM

St. John’s Summer Academy

is a college summer program

for high school students (ages

15-18), modeled after St. John’s

discussion-based, interdisciplinary

method of teaching great

books. A genuine introduction

to college life, Summer Academy

helps students hone their reading,

critical thinking, and discussion

skills in classes led by St.

John’s faculty. This summer, we

are offering week-long programs

on our Annapolis, MD, and Santa

Fe, NM, campuses and online

programs from your own home.

Summer Academy is perfect for

high school students who want

to immerse themselves in books,

ideas, and a community that

shares their love of learning.

Learn More »

Stanford Pre-Collegiate

Summer Institutes

View Website »

Location(s): Stanford, CA

Stanford Pre-Collegiate

Studies’ academic

enrichment programs

invite intellectually curious

students to explore

advanced topics beyond

the typical high school

curriculum. Through

interactive coursework

and collaboration with a

global community of peers,

students explore advanced

topics in art, mathematics,

bioscience, humanities,

business, writing, and more

online and on campus.

Learn More »

Stevens Institute of

Technology: Summer


View Website »

Location(s): Hoboken, NJ

Minutes from New York City,

Stevens Institute of Technology

invites you to explore your

ambitions through engaging

Summer Pre-College Programs.

Dive into your interests, work

with cutting-edge technology,

and create meaningful projects

— from business plans to video

games — while connecting with

passionate peers. Choose a

residential program for a full

campus experience or take forcredit

courses to earn college

credits. Stevens offers inspiring,

hands-on opportunities online

and on campus that help you

discover potential majors and

elevate your future.

Learn More »

DREAM BIG

THIS SUMMER

Our Pre-College Summer Programs let you

experience campus life while exploring exciting,

in-demand fields.

Commuter and

Residential Options

One- and

Two-Week Camps

LEARN MORE

qu.edu/summer

Dartmouth Precollege

Get Started on Your

Future in Medicine

Discover the Harvard Medical

School Pre-College Online

Certificate Program.

Get a glimpse of what it’s like to study medical

science — before you even apply to college.

With courses available year-round and flexible

scheduling options, you’ll learn key foundational

concepts and receive guidance from mentors.

Ignite Your Potential

Before College

Experience Dartmouth’s educational

excellence with the Precollege Online Program,

designed for students aged 13 and older. Learn

from Dartmouth’s renowned instructors,

receive mentor support, pursue new academic

interests, and enjoy the freedom of our flexible,

online format designed to fit your schedule.

Here’s your chance to prepare for a lifetime of

intellectual exploration.


• Biochemistry

• Genetics

• Immunology

• Pharmacology

• Physiology

• Becoming a Doctor

• Medical Research

Ready to take the first step

toward your career in medicine?

Course Topics Include:

• Medicine

• Business

• Law

• Psychology

• STEM

SCAN ME

Apply now at

bit.ly/dc_tlsummerad2026.

Explore the Program

Scan here to get started

Or visit: bit.ly/hm_tlsummerad2026

45168 11/25

Summer Programs


Stony Brook University:

Pre-College Summer

View Website »

Location(s): Stony Brook, NY

Explore your academic passions

at New York's top-ranked public

university. At Stony Brook’s Pre-

College Summer Program, you'll

undertake an immersive, weeklong

experience featuring handson,

non-credit courses in a range

of disciplines, including biotechnology,

communications, content

creation, engineering, healthcare,

mathematics, pre-law, sustainability,

and more. You'll learn from

world-class faculty, build lasting

friendships through social activities

and campus events, and gain

an authentic taste of college life.

Learn More »

Summer Discovery:

Transformative Summer

Pre-College Academic

Experiences

View Website »

Location(s): United States,

UK, Spain

Summer Discovery is the #1

pre-college enrichment program

recommended by high school

college counselors. We're built on

a simple belief: students shouldn't

have to choose between serious

academics and fun summer

experiences. Holistic enrichment

perfectly balances rigorous learning

with exploration, growth, and

lasting memories. Our portfolio

of over 300+ courses, at 15+ top

universities, deliver tangible results:

strengthened applications,

certificates of completion, letters

of recognition, and clarity about

your future. Applications are open

for Summer 2026. Apply Today!

Learn More »

Summer Springboard:

Pre-College Summer

View Website »


Explore a major. Discover a career path.

Enjoy college life. We designed our courses

for middle and high school students who

want to experience life on a top university

campus while exploring future career

paths. Students gain valuable skills and

clarity about their goals through hands-on

academic courses led by industry experts

and participating in workshops and local

excursions. Whether investigating medicine,

business, or the arts, Summer Springboard

provides students the opportunity to

discover their passions and prepare for

college success. Learn More »

Susquehanna University:

Summer Pre-College Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Selinsgrove, PA

The Summer Pre-College Programs at

Susquehanna showcase the university’s

colleges of the arts, business, humanities,

and sciences. We offer exciting and

engaging weeklong on-campus workshops

designed especially for high-achieving

high school students. Faculty and college

student mentors challenge high schoolers

who want to learn new skills, improve

their abilities, or explore topics that can

add to their college resume.

Learn More »

Syracuse University


precollege.syr.edu

Location(s): Syracuse, NY

For 65 years, Syracuse University has

given high school students an opportunity

to explore college majors and potential

careers through its renowned pre-college

programs. Students choose from over

100 credit or noncredit courses either on

campus, online, or on location in NYC, LA,

and Washington, D.C. Syracuse University

faculty and instructors teach all courses.

Participants learn to balance freedom and

responsibility much like a college student

and come home feeling confident, enthusiastic,

and college ready. Learn More »

Tufts University


View Website »


Tufts' Pre-College Programs offer ambitious

high school students the opportunity

to learn from renowned faculty and

experience challenging academics at a

leading higher education institution. Our

summer programs combine the academic

rigor of a top 30 university with a thriving

community of inspired learners and an

engaging virtual campus. Programs run

for 1- to 6-week sessions. We process program

applications on a rolling basis, with

a final deadline in May. Limited financial

aid is available. Learn More »

UBC Future Global Leaders

View Website »

Location(s): Vancouver, Canada

Study at a top-ranked global university

before you graduate from high school.

Join UBC Future Global Leaders, Canada’s

leading pre-college summer program, at

the University of British Columbia in Vancouver,

Canada. Explore your academic

interests in first-year level courses, make

friends from around the world and build

global experience and independence in a

safe, welcoming environment. Stand out

with international experience and get a

head start on your future. Learn More »

UC Berkeley's Architecture &

Design Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Berkeley, CA

Earn UC Berkeley credit by exploring architecture,

urban design, and sustainable

city planning. For four or five weeks, you

will immerse yourself in studio, lectures,

discussion sections, digital design, and

field trips. Programs include ample studio

time, one-on-one reviews, and opportunities

to showcase your work, helping you

develop a portfolio for university applications.

No prior experience in environmental

design is expected. Programs are open

to high school students (rising juniors &

seniors) and college students of all levels.

Learn More »


Unlock Your Curiosity

Discover Georgetown’s College Credit Courses

Get a head start on your college career—and future—with Georgetown college credit courses.

Delivered online, each course includes engaging video lessons that you can experience from anywhere,

on your own schedule.


• Biology

• Creative Writing

• Cybersecurity

• Finance (Research Project)

• International Relations

At a Glance

• Marketing

• Medicine (Research Project)

• Psychology

• More on the way

- College credit courses available throughout the year

- Students experience a college-level course and earn 3 credits per course from Georgetown University, while

still in high school

- Courses designed by Georgetown University faculty and delivered online through dynamic video

- Teaching assistants support and answer students’ questions

Explore the Program

bit.ly/gu_cc_tlsummerad2026

45168 11/25

Summer Programs


UC Davis Summer

High School Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Davis, CA

Get more out of your summer

with our on-campus

and commuter programs

for high school students at

UC Davis. These summer

programs give high-achieving

incoming freshmen

to graduating seniors a

hands-on introduction to

college and the ability to

discover a future career.

Explore a major, develop a

passion, work with brilliant

researchers at UC Davis,

one of the world’s top

research universities.

Learn More »

UMass Amherst Summer


View Website »

Location(s): Amherst, MA

Discover pre-college opportunities

available this summer

for rising 10th-12th graders at

UMass Amherst. Pre-college

programs at UMass combine

all the major elements of college,

including great academics,

living in a residence hall,

and enjoying the #1 Best

Campus Food in the U.S. Academic

intensives are offered in

25+ topics, including STEM, art

& design, business and more,

and students can also enroll in

unique six-week lab research

experiences. Also available are

year-round college prep workshops

in SAT/ACT test prep

and college application essay

writing. Learn More »

UNCW MarineQuest

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Wilmington,

NC

Learning doesn't take the

summer off, but you won’t

find any textbooks here.

UNCW MarineQuest's

Summer Programs get

kids outside so they can

get their hands dirty and

feet wet as they learn

about the wonderful

coastal environment

where we live! For 45

years, UNCW MarineQuest

has provided enriching

academic opportunities

for the pre-k-12 community

to explore, discover,

and value our marine

habitats and develop into

environmentally responsible

adults. Learn More »

University of Maryland:

Terp Young Scholars (TYS)

View Website »

Location(s): College Park, MD

Terp Young Scholars delivers an

exceptional academic experience

at an incredible value. In this

pre-college program, high school

students enroll in an engaging

course, earn three college credits,

explore an exciting new field,

and take advantage of the many

resources at the state’s flagship

university. Three-week courses

are offered in person or online

from July 13 - 31, 2026.

Learn More »

Summer Programs


Vanderbilt University:

Summer Programs

for Talented Youth

View Website »


Vanderbilt Programs

for Talented Youth are

designed for academically

advanced students ready

to take their learning to

the next level. Offering

1- and 2-week precollege

courses through Vanderbilt

Summer Academy

(VSA) and Vanderbilt

Summer Institute (VSI),

you’ll immerse yourself in a

fast-paced, intensive course

on a subject of your choice

and experience college

life at one of the nation’s

leading universities. Online

options through Vanderbilt

Mentor Immersion

(VMI) are also available.

Learn More »

Vassar Pre-College

Summer Program

View Website »

Location(s): Poughkeepsie, NY

Vassar Pre-College Summer

Program gives high school students

the chance to explore their

academic interests and personal

passions while experiencing the

hallmarks of a liberal arts education:

small, discussion-focused

classes, interdisciplinary learning,

and an engaged campus community.

Live and learn on Vassar’s

campus, engage with peers from

diverse backgrounds, and challenge

yourself to discover your

best self. Our program offers a

holistic experience that nurtures

growth inside and outside the

classroom, preparing students

for future academic, social, and

personal opportunities.

Learn More »

Vogue Summer

School

View Website »


Get an inside look at the

fashion industry with

Vogue Summer School,

an immersive two-week

experience in New York

City. From designer studios

and flagship stores

to galleries and industry

headquarters, you’ll explore

the spaces where

fashion comes alive while

learning from Vogue and

Condé Nast journalists

and other experts in

fashion business, media

and styling.

Learn More »

William & Mary:

Pre-College Program

in American History

View Website »

Location(s): Williamsburg, VA

The Pre-College Program in

American History at the College

of William & Mary is a three-week,

residential program for high

school students. Participants

enroll in a single history course

and earn four transferable college

credits. Pre-college students live

on campus, travel to historic sites

and museums daily, meet professionals

in the field, participate in

small seminar-style classes, and

develop college-level reading and

writing skills. Students have the

option to join an archaeological

excavation on weekends.

Financial assistance is available.

Learn More »

Prepare to

Stand Out

Early College Program Summer Institute courses

provide high schoolers with portfolio development,

college credit, and a taste of college life at a

world-class institution.

Online and In-Person Options Available!

Register now for one, two, and four-week sessions.

saic.edu/ecpsi

SAIC CONTINUING STUDIES | saic.edu/ecpsi | ecp@saic.edu | 312.629.6170

Summer Programs


ARTS

Academic Programs

International (API): High

School Summer Abroad

View Website »

Location(s): Paris, France

Spend your summer creating

in Paris! If you’re a high

school student who loves

fashion, art, and design,

and wants a summer that’s

both fun and meaningful,

this program is for you.

Instead of a typical summer,

spend your days creating,

exploring, and getting

inspired in Paris, one of

the world’s most iconic

creative capitals. Learn from

industry professionals, build

real-world skills, and make

portfolio-worthy work that

can strengthen your college

applications. SCHOLARSHIPS

AVAILABLE, APPLY NOW!

Learn More »

ArtsBridge Summer

View Website »

Location(s): Baldwin

Wallace University, OH

ArtsBridge Summer

programs give actors,

singers, songwriters,

and classical vocalists

intensive, immersive

training in their art form

along with specialized

guidance on what it

takes to succeed in the

college admissions process.

Designed for high

school students seriously

considering a major or

minor in the arts, this

program brings participants

together to work

with top college faculty

from across the country.

Learn More »

Atlantic Acting School:

Summer Teen Conservatory

View Website »


Atlantic Acting School’s New York

Conservatory for teens offers

a pre-college intensive with a

focus on practical aesthetics and

professional-level training. The

Teen Conservatory uses a comprehensive

curriculum to provide

an introduction to the Atlantic

Acting Technique, challenging students

to push beyond their comfort

zones. In this collaborative

environment, teens gain a taste

of the conservatory experience

while building foundational skills.

Students experience rigorous

training in voice, speech, movement,

and acting techniques.

Classes include script analysis,

Shakespeare, monologue, and

on-camera techniques.

Learn More »

The Blackbird

Academy: Music &

Recording Summer

Camps

View Website »


The Blackbird Academy's

Audio Engineering Summer

Camps are intended for

high school (ages 13-19)

musicians, music lovers,

singer, songwriters and

those with the passion

of building their music

production skills. Learn and

work on the same gear used

to record and produce hit

songs and albums for some

of the biggest names in

music, like Taylor Swift, Post

Malone, Morgan Wallen,

and others, at the worldrenowned

Blackbird Studio

in Nashville, TN.

Learn More »

AN OCEAN OF

KNOWLEDGE

AWAITS YOU

Dive into college with

UNCW MarineQuest.

A precollege marine science

program focused on research

and career explorations.

Discover the

right fit for you!

uncw.edu/marinequest

@marinequestuncw

(910) 962-2640

facebook.com/marinequestuncw

An EEO/AA Institution

PRE-COLLEGE

STARTS HERE.

ON CAMPUS • ONLINE • ON LOCATION

EXPERIENCE COLLEGE LIFE

WHILE STILL IN HIGH SCHOOL

• 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6-week programs

• Credit and Noncredit courses offered

• Explore potential careers and college majors

• Build a resume and/or portfolio

• Make new friends from around the world

• Stand out to college admissions

EXPLORE YOUR INTERESTS

WITH 100+ COLLEGE COURSES

• Architecture

• Art & Design

• Business & Law

• College Prep

• Communications

• Computer Science

• Engineering

• Film & Photography

• Health Sciences

• Leadership

• Social Sciences

• Sport Studies

• Writing & Literature

• And more!

SCAN HERE TO VIEW OUR

FULL COURSE CATALOG!

Applications for Summer 2026 are OPEN!

(DISCOUNTS AND FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE)

Learn more precollege.syr.edu

Email sumcoll@syr.edu

Call 315.443.5000

Follow @SUPreCollege

Summer Programs


Boston University School of Visual

Arts Summer Institute (VASI)

View Website »


The Boston University School of Visual

Arts’ Summer Institute offers high school

students (ages 15-18) an intensive visual

arts program designed to help them build

exceptional portfolios and get a taste of

the collegiate art school classroom experience.

The program introduces students to

materials and methods used in professional

artistic practice. Participants earn

three college credits at the program’s

completion and leave the program with

work ready to be included in their

portfolios. Learn More »

California College of the Arts –

Pre-College Program

View Website »

Location(s): San Francisco, CA

CCA’s Pre-College Program gives creative

high school students the chance to spend

their summer immersed in art and design.

Students earn three college credits, learn

from expert faculty, and build a robust

portfolio for future college applications over

four weeks. They’ll live on campus in San

Francisco, meet other art-minded makers

and designers, and explore the city while

learning from practicing artists and designers.

It’s an inspiring, confidence-building

step toward their future in art and design.

Learn More »

California State Summer School

for the Arts (CSSSA)

View Website »

Location(s): Sacramento, CA

CSSSA is a residential and pre-professional

summer training program for high schoolaged

artists in California. The program

provides artistic education and technical

training in animation, dance, film, music,

theater, visual arts, and writing. At CSSSA,

students hone their craft through immersive,

hands-on classes and personalized arts

instruction. CSSSA provides direct access to

industry professionals and visiting artists, offering

unique opportunities for mentorship

and professional networking. Students may

earn three college credits upon successful

program completion. Learn More »

Idyllwild Arts

Summer Program

View Website »

Location(s): Idyllwild, CA

Explore your creativity and

build lifelong friendships with

other teen artists in a welcoming

camp environment.

Set in Southern California's

picturesque mountains, our

summer workshops for middle

and high school-aged students

provide focused and enriching

hands-on arts training for

students of all levels of ability

and experience. Instructors

nurture passion and talent,

helping students immerse

themselves completely in their

chosen craft and channel the

creative spirit into a foundation

for continued study. Financial

aid opportunities are available.

Learn More »

If P then Q Camps: New

York Footwear & Accessories

Design Camp

View Website »

Location(s): Montclair or

Springfield, NJ

The New York Footwear &

Accessories Design Camp is a

professional atelier designed

for students ready to work at

an advanced level. Participants

use industrial machinery to

produce gallery-level work

while developing sophisticated

portfolio pieces that

strengthen applications to elite

colleges. In this high-pressure

environment, skill and commitment

matter more than

age. Students gain advanced

techniques, creative independence,

and technical mastery.

Admission is highly selective

and based on interview and

invitation only. Learn More »

Juniper Institute for Young Writers

View Website »

Location(s): Amherst, MA

Since 2006, the Juniper Institute for Young

Writers has provided an immersion in the

writer’s life. The UMass Amherst campus hosts

this pre-college experience, offering participants

an unforgettable week of wild invention. At Juniper,

we’re all writers. You and your peers are writers,

and so are all of the Juniper teachers, guests,

and staff. You’ll hear their work and share your

own and engage with your writing community

through craft sessions, writing labs, small group

intensives, participant readings, and literary

field trips. Learn More »

Maine College of Art & Design:

Pre-College Program

View Website »

Location(s): Portland, ME

Spend your summer in Portland, Maine, at

MECA&D’s residential Pre-College program! For

students ages 15–18 this three-week summer experience

is designed to help you refine your artistic

skills, build your portfolio, and experience life

as an art and design student—all while earning

college credit. Through studio courses, hands-on

projects, and critiques led by experienced faculty,

you’ll strengthen your technical skills and creative

voice while connecting with like-minded peers

from across the country, forming friendships that

last well beyond the summer. Learn More »

Music Academy of the

West's High School Intensive

View Website »

Location(s): Santa Barbara, CA

Join us for the 2026 Summer Music Festival &

School! This new Music Academy program is for

exceptional instrumentalists, pianists and conductors,

ages 14-18. In the spectacular coastal

setting of Santa Barbara, students will learn

from world-renowned teaching artists, collaborate

with peers equally committed to musical

excellence, and perform. Over two weeks, take

part in private lessons, an orchestra performance

led by Miguel Harth-Bedoya, chamber

music dedicated coaching and performances,

studio classes with peers, and college readiness

workshops, all featuring a vibrant campus life.

Learn More »


Summer Programs


New York Film

Academy

View Website »

Location(s): New York, NY,

Los Angeles, CA

Spend your summer bringing

stories to life at the New York

Film Academy. Our handson

filmmaking, acting, game

design, screenwriting, and

other camps in New York City

and Los Angeles immerse

students ages 10-13 and

14-17 in the art of visual storytelling.

Guided by industry

professionals, campers learn

by doing and write, shoot,

perform, and edit their own

projects. Along the way, they

build confidence, creativity,

and lasting friendships in an

inspiring, collaborative environment,

guided by industry

experts. No experience

required. Learn More »

New York School

of Interior Design:

Pre-College Program

View Website »


Embark on an exciting

2-week journey with the

New York School of Interior

Design’s (NYSID) Pre-College

Program. This immersive

experience is available

in-person or online for

students entering 9th-12th

grade. You’ll learn from

professional interior designers,

explore architectural

drawings and digital media,

and get to create your own

designs in studio classes.

Scholarships are available

for students to help cover

tuition expenses. Don't miss

the chance to explore the

world of interior design!

Learn More »

Ohio University

Summer Arts Programs

for High School

View Website »

Location(s): Athens, OH

Ohio University’s Summer

Arts Programs for High

School offer students ages

14-18 the opportunity to

immerse themselves fully

in the fine arts. Participants

work with faculty and visiting

artists at our lovely Athens,

OH, campus to improve

their skills and techniques,

hone their creative vision,

and create meaningful personal

work. Learn More »

Parsons Academy:

New York Summer

Intensive Studies

View Website »


This 3-week program is your

college gateway to earning 3

undergraduate credits and

building a standout portfolio

reviewed by Parsons

Admissions Officers. Master

creative skills on our NYC

campus by taking our popular

fashion courses. Summer intensive

studies (SIS) students

are twice as likely to enroll

in a Parsons undergraduate

degree program. Secure this

unparalleled opportunity to

gain skills, college credit, and

a foundation for success at

the nation’s #1 art and design

school. Learn More »

PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER AT STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY

Discover your academic passions and experience campus

life at New York’s top-ranked public university.

One- and two-week courses • Residential and commuter options

Subject areas include health professions, engineering, biomedical sciences,

computational linguistics, content creation, legal studies and more!

LEARN MORE:

gosbu.co/pcs

Summer Programs


Powerhouse Theater

Program at Vassar College

View Website »

Location(s): Poughkeepsie, NY

Powerhouse Theater is dedicated

to the artistic development

of emerging and established

artists. The Training Program

offers students a unique opportunity

to dive headfirst into

a conservatory-like intensive

on the Vassar College campus.

Actors, directors, and writers

hone their respective crafts

through both class work and

practical experiences. By

engaging with professional

theater companies and artists

each summer, students deepen

their understanding of the art

and industry. Powerhouse exposes

students to new theater

making possibilities through

a process of self-discovery.

Learn More »

SCAD Pre-College

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Savannah or

Atlanta, GA

Start your SCAD journey early

with a pre-college program!

Explore new avenues of

artistic development and

spark your imagination at

The University for Creative

Careers. SCAD offers summer

pre-college programs

where high school students

can pursue art and design

disciplines. Collaborate with

peers from around the world,

and take advantage of the

opportunities as a young

artist to create, learn, and

grow. SCAD offers two engaging

pre-college programs to

ignite your creativity, SCAD

Summer Seminars and SCAD

Rising Star. Learn More »

School of the Art

Institute of Chicago:

Early College Program

Summer Institute

View Website »

Location(s): Chicago, IL

SAIC's Early College Program

Summer Institute is a great

way to earn college credit

and explore your passion for

art. It's hosted by one of the

most historically significant

accredited independent

schools of art and design in

the nation, right in the heart

of Chicago. In this program,

you'll work with an amazing

faculty of practicing artists,

designers, and scholars and

connect with artists from

around the globe. You'll also

prepare a competitive portfolio

for college admission and

earn college credit that could

count toward your degree.

Learn More »

Summer@Cornish

at Seattle University

View Website »

Location(s): Seattle, WA

Summer@Cornish is a

4-week intensive program

offering high school arts

students a mini-college experience

at Cornish College

of the Arts at Seattle University,

located in Seattle's

South Lake Union. In this

program, aspiring artists

explore the city while honing

their creative talents.

The curriculum prepares

students for a future in the

arts. Instead of focusing on

one discipline or existing

works, students create and

perform original works and

have the opportunity to

take electives beyond their

primary art form.

Learn More »

Summer Programs


Teachers College,

Columbia University


View Website »


Pre-College Programs at Teachers

College, Columbia University,

empower motivated high

school students (ages 14-17) to

explore academic passions and

gain university-level experience.

Expert instructors deliver

rigorous coursework blending

hands-on learning with

critical thinking development.

Students choose from diverse

subjects, incuding the arts,

psychology, and education,

while experiencing college life

on campus or online. Participants

prepare for college while

gaining a competitive edge,

discovering their potential, and

taking decisive steps toward

achieving their academic and

career goals. Learn More »

UCLA School of the

Arts and Architecture

(UCLA Arts) Pre-College

Summer Programs

View Website »


UCLA Arts’ Pre-College

Summer Institutes offer

something for everyone. If

you want to push boundaries

in studio arts, explore

game-making and interactive

storytelling, harness emerging

technologies to bring your

creativity to life, or design the

buildings of the future, UCLA

Arts is the place for you. Earn

college credit from worldclass

programs while building

your portfolio and preparing

for the future of creative

practice at a leading research

university in the world's creative

capital. Five programs;

one transformative summer.

Learn More »

BUSINESS &

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Bentley University


View Website »

Location(s): Waltham, MA

Bentley's pre-college programs

give high school students a

taste of college academics. The

courses allow students to build

essential skills, expand their

networks, and enhance their

college applications, setting

them on a path toward future

success. Courses include accounting,

health & wellness,

data analytics, innovation and

design, risk management,

social entrepreneurship, sports

management, Wall Street 101,

women's leadership, and

writing and producing short

form media.

Learn More »

LaunchX Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Multiple

Locations

Take the next step in your

entrepreneurship journey.

You can grow through our

foundational BootCamp,

build a prototype in our

Exploration Program,

consult with an existing

organization in our

Innovation Program, or

start a real business in

under five weeks at our

Flagship Entrepreneurship

Program. We'll help

you develop the skills

you need for the startup

world. Join us in-person

or online this year and

ignite your passion.

Learn More »

GIVE YOUR TEEN A SUMMER

THAT INSPIRES THINKING

This summer, help your high school student step away from endless scrolling and dive into

something deeper. At St. John’s Summer Academy, students ages 15–18 explore timeless

works, tackle big ideas, and engage in lively, discussion-driven learning. Whether in Annapolis,

Santa Fe, or online, this week-long program fosters friendships, intellectual curiosity, and a

deeper understanding of the world—an experience beyond the ordinary classroom.

See the full schedule and apply at sjc.edu/summer-academy

EXPLORE THE

PROGRAM

FINANCIAL AID

IS AVAILABLE

Summer Programs

www.teenlife.com/request-summer


Teach Me Wall Street

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Online

Step into the world of business & investing this

summer with Teach Me Wall Street Summer

Programs. Wall Street 101 breaks down the

mechanics of Wall Street, introduces the major

players, and teaches you how to analyze stocks,

bonds, and more. In Investing & Trading, you’ll

place trades, build a portfolio, and learn how to

grow your wealth over time. You can also test

your skills in the Teen Investor Cup, an investing

competition where you choose strong stocks and

trades, track your ranking on the leaderboard,

and compete for a cash prize. Taught virtually

by real Wall Street professionals, our programs

help teens build financial independence, explore

career paths, and pave their way toward futures

in business or finance. Learn More »

University of San Francisco Pre-College

Program: Wall Street Academy

View Website »


University of San Francisco's pre-college program,

Wall Street Academy, provides high school students

early exposure to college-level academics.

Hosted in our state-of-the-art Investment Lab, the

program covers a broad spectrum of topics from

the basics of investments and personal investing

to global financial markets and alternative

investments. Wall Street Academy offers students

hands-on experience and shares insights from

leading industry professionals. Students also

participate in an exclusive off-site experience with

some of the world’s leading financial institutions.

Learn More »

Wealthy Habits: Money Smart

View Website »

Location(s): Atlanta, GA

Every young person needs financial education.

This program is your chance to ensure your

teen grows up confident and financially secure.

Wealthy Habits offers three week-long program

tracks covering the essentials from money basics

to investing to real-life adulting. All programs are

taught live so students can engage, ask questions,

and discuss real-world decisions. Interactive

lessons and practical activities help teens

understand money and build strong habits that

support long-term success, preparing them with

confidence for a brighter financial future.

Learn More »

The Young Hoteliers

Academy

View Website »


Get a head-start in hospitality

and a taste of college life as you

go behind-the-scenes at luxury

hotels, dine with industry leaders,

and master the basics of hotel

management in this immersive 10-

day summer program that's limited

to 30 high school students. Through

classroom instruction led by a

hospitality instructor to case studies

and team projects, master the

foundations of hotel management

while building teamwork and

problem-solving skills.

Learn More »

CAREER EXPLORATION

& LEADERSHIP

The Academies by Harvard

Student Agencies: Summer

On-Campus Academies

View Website »

Location(s): Cambridge, MA

The Academies by Harvard

Student Agencies offers high

school students the opportunity

to explore future careers through

immersive pre-professional

programs taught by Harvard undergraduates.

Programs include

business, pre-med, government,

coding, and finance, and engage

students in hands-on projects,

discussions, and mentorship

designed to inspire curiosity and

leadership. Students can participate

in person on Harvard’s

campus or virtually, while gaining

a unique glimpse into college-level

learning and real-world problemsolving,

within a supportive,

rigorous, and engaging academic

environment. Learn More »

AMP Global Scholar:

Summer Program for

Young Global Leaders

View Website »

Location(s): Washington, DC or

Atlanta, GA

Global Scholar empowers youth

to become bold, visionary

changemakers tackling today’s

most urgent challenges. Through

expert-led seminars, hands-on

skills workshops, and career-accelerating

opportunities, participants

gain community, connections, and

inspiration to lead with purpose.

The DC program features a youth

summit on shaping what’s next for

our global community. The Atlanta

program includes a visit to the

Legacy Museum in Montgomery.

Scholars launch projects, and/

or join the State of Global Youth

Report team, and can join our student

leadership team year-round.

Learn More »

FIRE Free Speech Forum

View Website »


The FIRE Free Speech Forum is a

week-long summer program in

Washington, D.C., hosted at American

University and designed for rising

10-12 graders interested in free

speech and civic leadership. Led by

legal experts, the program features

a robust curriculum, immersive

workshops, and field trips to

iconic sites throughout the nation’s

capital. Students will build practical

skills, strengthen their understanding

of free expression, and benefit

from meaningful professional

development experiences. Accepted

applicants will receive a full

scholarship. Learn More »


Summer Programs


Freedom Forum: Al Neuharth Free

Spirit and Journalism Conference

View Website »


One high school junior from each state

and Washington, D.C., with an interest

in journalism will be selected for

an all-expenses-paid program on June

21-26, 2026, to the Freedom Forum. This

conference features panel conversations

with journalists and multimedia storytellers,

newsroom visits, networking events,

a chance to meet news industry leaders,

and unique tours of our nation’s capital. It

includes a $1,000 college scholarship and

ongoing support from more than 1,700

alumni. Build your skills, grow your network

and get a head start on your future.

Learn More »

Make The Change: Gaia

Changemaker Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Zurich, Prague, Alps

Have the summer experience that every

teen needs, which mixes sustainability,

STEM, art, nature, impact and leadership.

Our holistic programs are totally unique

journeys designed to spark inspiration,

confidence, and future-ready skills.

Students dive into hands-on projects,

creative workshops, outdoor adventures,

and sustainability challenges guided by

real-world changemakers who share their

work and lived experience. With a powerful

blend of learning, exploration, mentorship,

and adventure, our programs gives teens

the mindset and skills they need for college,

life, and impact.

Learn More »

Meridian Future Leaders Academy

View Website »


The Meridian Future Leaders Academy is

a 1-week pre-college program in Washington,

D.C., for rising juniors and seniors

interested in global affairs. Students explore

diplomacy through embassy visits,

policy simulations, and mentorship from

international leaders. With small cohorts

for personalized guidance, participants

build leadership skills, earn a Global

Leadership Certificate, and join Meridian’s

worldwide network. Learn More »

National Student

Leadership Conference

(NSLC) Summer Programs

View Website »


Locations

The National Student Leadership

Conference (NSLC) is an

immersive pre-college experience

where students explore

their interests, discover their

passions, and cultivate their

leadership skills. Since 1989,

NSLC has helped students

test-run their futures through

interactive programs hosted at

prestigious universities in the

U.S. and Oxford, UK. Students

engage in hands-on education

across different fields of study

and gain authentic college experiences

that prepare them for

their futures. Learn More »

Peace Ambassador

Leadership Summit

(PALS)

View Website »


Locations

Give your teen a summer that

sets them apart. Top universities

host the Peace Ambassador

Leadership Summit (PALS), a

weeklong experience where

high school students earn 50+

service hours, master public

speaking, explore career paths,

receive mentoring from college

students and advisors, and

build confidence in real-world

leadership. With interactive

workshops, mentorship, and

unforgettable campus life, PALS

prepares teens to lead with

empathy, purpose, and impact.

Spots are limited. Register now

for PALS at FIU, UF, UCF, or

Georgetown. Learn More »

Study Mind: International

Summer Career Camps

View Website »


Join us in central London for our awardwinning

Summer Career Camps, led by top industry

experts. Designed for teens to explore

careers through hands-on learning, each programme

combines workshops, industry visits,

and project-based tasks. Guided by mentors

from leading UK universities, you will gain real

insight into professional environments. Stay

at UCL’s Ramsay Hall with 24/7 security while

enjoying evening activities such as theatre

trips and dinners, plus weekend excursions to

iconic London landmarks. Learn More »

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Global Leadership Adventures

View Website »


Global Leadership Adventures offers immersive

travel programs and internships focused on

leadership, community service, and cultural

exchange for middle and high school students.

Through hands-on volunteer projects and

experiential learning in countries around the

world, students explore global issues such as

sustainability, education, and public health. GLA

programs are designed to help young people

develop empathy, confidence, and a deeper understanding

of global citizenship while making a

positive impact in local communities around the

world. Learn More »

FAITH-BASED

Camp Be’chol Lashon: Multicultural

Jewish Summer Camp

View Website »


Camp Be'chol Lashon is a multicultural Jewish

overnight camp. Campers develop Jewish

friendship circles and build deeper connections

to Jewish life. In addition to activities like kayaking

and canoeing, our innovative curriculum,

Passport to Peoplehood, focuses on Jews as

a global multicultural people who live around

the world. Campers use their ‘passports’ to

explore different Jewish community traditions

through art, music, dance, and cooking. Our

diverse camp staff fosters global Jewish identity

development in a safe, nurturing environment.

Learn More »


Summer Programs


HEALTHCARE

Envision by WorldStrides:

NYLF – Medicine

View Website »


Future doctors and health care practitioners

will enjoy an extraordinary opportunity to

discover their passions through hands-on

medical experience at NYLF Medicine & Health

Care. Over eight amazing days on the campus

location of your choice, you will experience the

college lifestyle, learn from doctors, participate

in an interactive curriculum led by advisors, visit

an accredited medical school, test your medical

knowledge during clinical skills rotations, and

explore professional opportunities in the everexpanding

fields of medicine and health care.

Learn More »

Future Physicians America

View Website »

Location(s): Orlando, FL

Future Physicians America is a selective

summer-program designed to offer for middle

and high school students and college students

early exposure to medicine. While taking

hands-on clinical courses (Trauma, Cardiology

& Resuscitation, Neurology, Dermatology/

Plastic Surgery) at University of Central Florida,

students gain real-world experience and

even have the opportunity to publish clinical

research as first authors in peer-reviewed,

PubMed-indexed journals. Experienced, boardcertified

physicians teach in this program,

which cultivates values of service, compassion,

scholarship, and excellence. Learn More »

Outset: STEM/Medicine

Camps for Teens

View Website »


Outset is America's leading overnight

summer program for teens interested

in medicine and healthcare. Our 1-week

programs offer 9th-12th graders a chance to

take a deep dive into the pre-med path while

living and learning at top university campuses

across the country. Programs include pediatrics,

general surgery, dentistry, cardiology,

anesthesiology, nursing, and more.

Learn More »

Penn Medicine

Summer Program for

High School Students

View Website »


The Penn Medicine Summer

Program for High School

Students offers a blend of

academic rigor and social

experiences that jumpstart

a future in medicine. Participants

engage in hands-on

clinical labs, observe medical

procedures, and explore

anatomy and research

under expert guidance. Students

live on campus, where

they can connect with peers

who share their passion for

medicine. This immersive

program builds essential

skills, confidence, and a

deep understanding of

healthcare, giving students

a head-start on their medical

careers while they enjoy

an unforgettable summer

of learning and friendship.

Learn More »

University of

Lynchburg Summer

Scholars Institute

View Website »

Location(s): Lynchburg, VA

If you’re a rising high

school student and have

considered studying health

sciences, our Health Sciences

Camp from June

14-20, 2026, gives you a

chance to explore healthrelated

careers like being

a physician assistant (PA),

working in public health, or

becoming an athletic trainer

or physical therapist. Learn

about what goes into nursing,

exercise physiology,

sport management, and biomedical

sciences. Plus, you’ll

make friends and get a feel

for campus life at Lynchburg

through exciting student

activities. Learn More »

LANGUAGE

CESA Languages Abroad –

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Europe

CESA Languages offers summer teenage

courses in France, Spain, Germany, and

Japan. We know all of our language colleges

personally and can draw on years of firsthand

experience. Accredited, quality language

schools host all courses and offer tuition for

beginner to advanced levels for courses lasting

one week and longer. Experience the culture

with other teenagers and learn a language in

its native environment. CESA offers fabulous

group classes so you can revise and improve

key skills whilst having fun. Learn More »

EF Language Abroad

View Website »


This summer, learn a language where it’s truly

lived with EF Language Abroad in one of 11

global destinations across Europe, Asia, and

Latin America. Students build real fluency

through immersive lessons and everyday

experiences, from local culture to new friendships

with peers from around the world. This

program is more than a trip: it’s confidence,

independence, and a wider worldview that

lasts long after summer ends, with EF support

every step of the way. Learn More »

LITA: A Unique Approach to

Language Immersion in Spain

View Website »

Location(s): Spain

LITA is a unique, rural-focused language immersion

program in Spain. Our dynamic, academically

challenging programs offer students

finishing 9th-11th grades a different approach

to exploring the vibrant Spanish language and

culture. LITA’s highly authentic, off-the-beatenpath

immersive experiences include small

groups, community building, and internships,

and are perfect for motivated students with

a true commitment to language acquisition.

Three- and 5-week programs center around a

homestay in small/medium sized communities

in northern or southern Spain.

Learn More »


Make this summer unforgettable with EF Language

Abroad. Students learn a language faster through reallife

immersion and cultural experiences, while building

confidence and making friends from around the world.

Start any monday of the summer at one of our 11 global destinations

Costa Rica - Spain - France - Germany - Italy - Japan - Korea - Singapore

Summer Programs


MENTAL HEALTH

& WELL-BEING

Inward Bound: Teen

Mindfulness Retreats

View Website »


Locations

Unplug your phone and

plug in your mind. Join

others on a mindfulness

meditation retreat. Retreats

provide young people with

the rare opportunity to

experience uninterrupted

and genuine insight into

their own life experience

and connect with peers

and mindfulness teachers

in a welcoming and safe

community. Come for the

fun and friends. Stay for the

calm and community. The

5-night retreats take place

throughout the country

during school breaks.

Learn More »

OUTDOOR

ADVENTURE

Alpengirl Adventures

View Website »


Alpengirl is the ultimate

summer adventure for teens

(and mother-daughter duos!)

ages 10-17. It offers multi-day

camping and adventure trips

in stunning landscapes across

the U.S. and Europe. Campers

build confidence, resilience, and

leadership skills while connecting

with nature and forming lasting

friendships. Trips include a wide

variety of activities, including

backpacking, horseback riding,

whitewater rafting, and more.

Experienced female mentors

guide each small-group

adventure, which invites campers

to step outside their comfort zone,

embrace the wild, and create

unforgettable memories.

Learn More »

Breakwater Expeditions:

Journey to Discovery

View Website »


Locations

Is your teen ready for a

one-of-a-kind adventure that

builds confidence, resilience,

and lifelong memories?

Breakwater specializes in

empowering teens to explore

the outdoors, stretch beyond

their comfort zones, and

discover their full potential.

Our small-group wilderness

trips combine travel,

skill-building, and fun — with

guides trained to create a

safe, supportive environment

from start to finish. Teens

become capable travelers,

develop real-world life skills,

and form friendships while

venturing through some of

the Americas' most stunning

landscapes. Learn More »

Kennolyn Camp

Huntington Lake

View Website »

Location(s): Huntington

Lake, CA

Kennolyn’s Huntington

Lake is nestled in the

Sierra Nevadas, just

five hours from San

Francisco. Our lakefront

program offers

sailing, waterskiing,

wakeboarding, kayaking,

fishing and other

activities. Cabin groups

pair six campers in

the same grade with

two counselors. Each

session welcomes 48

campers in grades 6-11

from all over the U.S.

Learn More »

Live, Learn & Thrive at Andover

Make 2026 your best summer ever as you live and

learn with friends from around the world! Summer

Session—Phillips Academy’s premier five-week

summer program—offers over 50 course options

from a wide variety of subject areas.

Designed for boarding or day students entering

grades 7–12, Summer Session will challenge you

academically and personally. Plus, you and your

new friends will enjoy special activities on the

beautiful Phillips Academy campus and events

throughout the Greater Boston area!

Apply today at andover.edu/summer!

June 30–August 2, 2026

Summer Programs


Pyrene Summer Camp

View Website »

Location(s): Barcelona, Spain

Step into the wild and expand

your limits during two unforgettable

weeks of hiking and

adventure in the majestic

Pyrenees mountain range.

Pyrene Explorer, an immersive

expedition through the

heart of the Pyrenees, was

designed for adventurous

teenage participants. The

program blends mountain

trekking, wilderness skills,

cultural discovery, and

teamwork. Guided by expert

leaders, explorers navigate

diverse terrains, build confidence,

and connect with

nature while experiencing

unforgettable challenges in

one of Europe’s most stunning

mountain ranges.

Learn More »

SeaTrek BVI: Tropical

Adventures in Sailing,

Scuba & Marine Biology

View Website »

Location(s): British Virgin

Islands

SeaTrek offers tropical adventure

summer camp programs

for junior high, high school

and college-aged students in

the British Virgin Islands and

other Caribbean islands. Voyages

revolve around hands-on

sailing, learning to scuba dive,

and instruction in marine

science. We focus all of our

educational experiences on

adventure, leadership, growth

and fun. Previous sailing and

scuba diving experience is not

required. In fact, most of our

students have never sailed

or gone scuba diving before

they experience our program.

Learn More »

SPORTS

IMG Academy

Sport Camps

View Website »

Location(s): Bradenton,

FL

IMG Academy offers a

comprehensive ecosystem

including boarding

school, sport camps, college

recruiting support,

and online coaching, delivering

world class training,

academic development,

and guidance that

helps student-athletes

progress at every stage

of their journey.

Learn More »

Soccer Camps

International: Europe

Summer Soccer Camps

View Website »


Give your child (ages 7-18) an

unforgettable soccer summer

training with Europe’s top professional

soccer clubs. Programs

include official soccer camps

with Manchester City, Arsenal,

Chelsea, Liverpool, West Ham,

Tottenham, Real Madrid, Barça

Academy (FC Barcelona), Atlético

de Madrid, AC Milan, Juventus,

Inter, Paris Saint-Germain PSG,

and Benfica Lisbon. Camps

offer elite coaching and cultural

immersion for international

players in iconic European football

destinations. Choose from

options for boys, girls, goalkeepers,

and day/overnight sessions

across England, Spain, Italy,

France, and Portugal.

Learn More »

Summer Programs


STEM

Acadia Institute of

Oceanography

View Website »

Location(s): Seal Harbor, ME

AIO is a 2-week program

covering all aspects of

marine science and includes

classroom learning, field work,

and hands-on lab activities.

Students should expect to

complete independent and

group work during their stay,

attend seminars, and lectures,

contribute to a positive

learning community, and

enjoy recreational activities

in and around Acadia

National Park. Choose from

introductory sessions (ages

10-12), intermediate sessions

(ages 12-14), and advanced

sessions (ages 15-18). Rising

juniors and seniors can also

earn college credit!

Learn More »

Boston Leadership

Institute: STEM

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Wellesley, MA,

Waltham, MA, or Boston, MA

BLI is a summer STEM

program for teens with

campuses in Wellesley,

Waltham, and Boston. The

3-week competitive admissions

research programs

provide excellent credentials

for college applications.

One-week programs

are introductory and hands

on. Programs are available

in science, medicine,

engineering, and business.

Popular programs include

Biomedical & Surgical

Research, Astrophysics,

Electronics & Robotics,

Anatomy, Marine Biology,

and more. Residential and

day options are available.

Learn More »

DigiPen Academy

Pre-College Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Online

Learn Game Design,

Video Game Programming,

Animation, or Music &

Sound Design this summer

with DigiPen Academy's

four-week online courses.

Gain college-level skills

and a transcript for your

college application. Explore

core concepts with expert

instructors in the mornings

and immerse yourself in

projects as a programmer,

game designer, artist, or

sound designer in the afternoons.

Each curriculum

aligns with DigiPen Institute

of Technology's highly

ranked programs. Join us

for an engaging learning

experience. Learn More »

Embry-Riddle

Summer Academy

View Website »

Location(s): Daytona Beach, FL

or Prescott, AZ

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical

University is one of the country's

best technological universities

and proud to be an active

and positive member of the

community. This summer,

we invite you to experience

the perfect mix of academic

challenge and fun with Embry-

Riddle's Summer Programs. Join

other motivated students from

around the globe at our Arizona

and Florida campuses and

prepare for a thrilling summer.

Our overnight camps give future

engineers, aviators, and space

explorers hands-on experience

in their fields of interest, while

our day camps bring learning to

life through interactive sessions

led by instructors and graduate

students. Learn More »

You Deserve the Highest

Level of Research —

Pioneer Certified!

World’s Only Fully Accredited Online Research Institute

4 College Credits, Research Papers & Certified Evaluations by Professor Mentors

71% of admission results of Pioneer students are US top 20 colleges and universities

Try Tufts on Your Terms

Tufts is ranked #16 in the U.S. for long-term

career results (LinkedIn Top Colleges 2025)

Residential &

Commuter

Summer &

Academic Year

1-6 weeks

For-Credit Options

Trips, Activities + More

Find Your Fit

Dual Enrollment Courses: Earn high school and

college credit during summer and the academic year.

Tufts College Experience: Live and learn like a real

Tufts undergrad in a six-week program where you

earn college credit, explore Boston, and get a preview

of campus life.

College Prep 101 Workshop: Develop essential skills,

tour Boston’s top universities, and gain insight into

college life from undergraduates, graduate students,

admissions officers, and career advisors.

NEW

College 101 for Neurodivergent Students: Get a

supportive, small-cohort intensive.

NEW

Summer Intensives: Select courses across arts,

business, engineering and computer science, health

and medicine, and social impact.

I came out of this program with a clear understanding of

the Med School world and a layout of what I should start

thinking about for the future.”

— Ashmita B.

Mini Med School 2025 Pre-College Student

go.tufts.edu/teenlife | precollege@tufts.edu | 617-627-2926

Summer Programs

www.teenlife.com/request-summer


Engineering Summer

Academy at Penn

View Website »


The Engineering Summer

Academy at Penn (ESAP) gives

students the chance to spend

their summer in Philadelphia

while exploring the world of

engineering at an Ivy League

university. Taught by Penn

faculty, students take rigorous

college-level courses

in fields such as robotics,

computer science, biotechnology,

nanotechnology, artificial

intelligence, and computer

graphics. Through hands-on

labs, collaborative projects, and

academic credit opportunities,

participants gain real engineering

experience while living on

campus, discovering the city of

Philadelphia and preparing for

future college success.

Learn More »

Illinois Tech: Elevate

College Prep Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Chicago, IL &

Online

Through the summer programs

offered by Illinois

Tech’s Elevate College Prep,

middle school and high school

students are exposed to

STEM-driven programs that

cover topics such as coding

and programming, robotics,

sustainability, science and

research, human sciences, and

many more—all at Chicago’s

leading tech-focused university.

Not only will students broaden

their knowledge and enhance

their skills while being exposed

to highly relevant, tech-driven

topics, but they’ll get a taste

of college life and all that an

Illinois Tech education offers.

Learn More »

Integem: Summer

Camps, Research &

Startup Programs

View Website »

Location(s): CA & Online

Join the #1 AI & AR program,

in-person and online. Build

AI robots/drones, create 3D

AR games/animations, and

earn NVIDIA AI Certificates.

No experience needed. In

our Research Institute,

investigate frontier research

in science, engineering, and

humanities with AI & cuttingedge

tech and publish with

PhD mentors. In our online

Startup Academy, turn your

passion in tech, design, business,

gaming or sports into an

innovative startup with Silicon

Valley mentors. Integem is a

NVIDIA AI partner and WASC

accredited. Join over 200K

students building the future!

Learn More »

Johns Hopkins

Engineering Innovation


View Website »

Location(s): Baltimore, MD

Johns Hopkins Engineering

Innovation Pre-College

Programs give you the

power to create the future

you envision as an engineer.

This year, tackle college-level

engineering courses with

other creative and bright


world through on-campus

and online courses. You can

also earn college credit from

Johns Hopkins University,

ranked seventh among national

universities and ninth

in undergraduate research

by U.S. News & World Report.

Learn More »

EXPERIENCE

YOUR MOST

CREATIVE SUMMER

Parsons Summer Intensives: Art, Fashion, and Design

Study alongside like-minded creatives at Parsons, a globally

top-ranked design school. Whether you choose a three-week

program at our vibrant New York City campus or four-week

online options, you’ll learn from faculty who are leaders

in their fields and engage with fellow students who share

your passion for fashion, art, and design. Build your creative

portfolio while earning three college credits!

June and July sessions

Learn more at

cpe.newschool.edu/summer

PC24A

Summer Programs


Missouri University of

Science and Technology:

Summer Camps

View Website »

Location(s): Rolla, MS

Give your child a summer

that builds confidence, curiosity

and real-world skills.

At Missouri S&T Summer

Camps, kids don’t just learn

about STEM, they dive into

it. They design, code, build,

experiment and explore,

discovering new passions

and strengths along the

way. With guidance from

expert faculty and friendships

that spark growth,

participants gain independence

and a clearer

sense of who they want to

become. Make this summer

an adventure with purpose.

Register for a 2026 Missouri

S&T Summer Camp today.

Learn More »

Program In Algorithmic

and Combinatorial

Thinking (PACT)

View Website »


The Program in Algorithmic

and Combinatorial Thinking

(PACT) is a month-long summer

program for motivated

high school students interested

in the mathematical foundations

of computer and data

science. Through interactive

lectures, problem solving, and

discussion, students explore

combinatorics, probability, and

graph theory while developing

strong proof-writing and analytical

skills. While living on the

UPenn campus, students join

a community of curious peers

and leave with a solid foundation

in theoretical computer

and data science, prepared for

advanced study. Learn More »

Rice University Tapia

Camps – Techniques of

a Pro Mathematician

View Website »

Location(s): Houston, TX

Techniques of a Pro Mathematician

is a week-long residential

camp for high-achieving high

school students who want a

rigorous college-level math experience.

Students learn advanced

techniques that professional

mathematicians use to think

clearly, work efficiently, and

solve challenging problems. The

program emphasizes communication,

intentional thinking, and

mastery of fundamental problem-solving

skills. While practicing

these techniques, participants

tackle a series of mathematical

challenges, and deliver a technical

presentation, preparing them

for future success in STEM and

college-level mathematics.

Learn More »

Rosetta Institute:

Biomedical Camps

View Website »


We offer workshops on molecular

medicine for high-achieving

high school and middle school

students interested in pursuing

careers in medicine or related

fields, such as pharmacy, nursing,

bioengineering, or medical

research. Participants can choose

from online and in-person options,

including residential camps

held at some of the world's best

universities. Workshops include

Molecular Biology of Cancer, Molecular

Neuroscience, Medicinal

Chemistry, Medical Bioinformatics,

Molecular Immunology,

Molecular Biology of Aging, Biomedical

Research, Developmental

Biology, AI-Enhanced Bioinformatics,

and Intro to Cellular and

Molecular Medicine.

Learn More »

Summer Programs


Science Camps of

America – Hawaii Island

Summer Camp for

Teens

View Website »

Location(s): Hawai'i

Hawai'i Island's Science

Camp for Teens entering

grades 8-12 is your home

for an amazing experience

filled with exploration,

science, fun and adventure.

Students hike, swim, and

snorkel while learning about

geology, marine science,

oceanography, forestry,

botany, biology, ecology, and

climatology. Each exciting

10-day Science Camp session

is filled with fresh places and

activities, with new friends to

share the experience.

Learn More »

Wentworth Institute

of Technology’s

Pre-college Program:

ImpactLab

View Website »


Wentworth Institute of

Technology’s summer

pre-college programs

offer students the chance

to immerse themselves in

campus life while exploring

hands-on, faculty-led

courses in biotechnology,

robotics, and many more.

Discover your passions

and experience innovative,

experiential learning

in the heart of Boston

this summer.

Learn More »

TRAVEL & CULTURAL

IMMERSION

AFS-USA: Summer Study

Abroad

View Website »


Spend your summer discovering

the world with AFS-USA! Our shortterm

programs offer high school

students the chance to explore

new cultures, learn a language,

and make lifelong friendships

while gaining global skills for the

future. Choose from destinations

across Europe, Asia, Latin America,

and more. Whether you’re

interested in cultural immersion,

STEM, sustainability, or language

learning, AFS has a program for

you. Scholarships and financial

aid are available to help increase

this unforgettable experience's

accessibility for all students.

Learn More »

Arcos Journeys Abroad:

Spanish, Service &

Cultural Discovery

View Website »


Arcos Journeys Abroad offers

teens enriching international

programs in Argentina, Costa

Rica, France, Mexico, Peru,

and Spain. Each meticulously

crafted experience immerses

participants in the best of

these captivating destinations.

Programming options include

Spanish Immersion, French

Language & Culture, and

community service, fine arts,

and culinary arts programs

abroad. Every aspect of the

Arcos program — from housing

to excursions — supports,

enhances, and amplifies

the main focus of your

chosen journey. Your global

transformation awaits!

Learn More »

Discover Pre-College Programs for

high school students at Columbia

University in the City of New York

NYC Residential & Commuter Summer 2026

Session AA*

June 22–26

Session A

June 29–July 17

Session B

July 21–August 7

Session C*

August 3–7

Online Summer 2026

*Commuter only session

Session AA

June 22–26

Session A

July 6–17

Session B

July 20–31

Academic Year Weekend 2026

Spring 2026

January 23–March 29

LEARN MORE

84 | 2026 TEENLIFE GUIDE TO SUMMER PROGRAMS

To find out more about these programs or to register for an

Information Session visit sps.columbia.edu/teenlife

Summer Programs


Camp On Tour:

Neurodivergent Travel

View Website »


Our program takes groups of travelers

around the world to experience new cultures

and have fun while practicing social,

emotional, independence, and executive

functioning skills. Camp On Tour is committed

to helping young adults with social,

emotional, learning, and cognitive differences

have their summer of a lifetime.

Learn More »

CIEE Global Navigator High School

Summer Abroad

View Website »


Global Navigator High School Summer

Abroad programs take you outside your

comfort zone for 3-4 weeks. Have fun

exploring a different culture in more than

40 amazing destinations worldwide. Bring

back new friends, new skills, a broader

worldview, and maybe even college credits

while you're still in high school. With $7

million schoolarship aid available each

year, a prestigious Global Navigator High

School Summer Abroad Scholarship can

make you stand out on college applications

while helping to fund your adventure.

Learn More »

Experiment in International Living:

High School Summer Abroad

Programs

View Website »


Step into a world of color, culture, and

curiosity. By participating in The Experiment’s

summer abroad programs for high

school students, you’ll live with welcoming

host families, try new things each day,

and build valuable global skills. Spend an

unforgettable summer exploring topics like

biodiversity in Costa Rica, contemporary

art in Ghana, culinary arts in Italy, or anime

in Japan. Return home with new friendships,

fresh perspectives, and a deeper

sense of the vibrancy and connectedness

of our world. Learn More »

Projects Abroad:

Your Gateway to

Global Impact

View Website »


Locations

Projects Abroad offer a

range of supervised trips

for teens ages 15-18 during

Summer 2026. The

programs an opportunity

for students to travel,

contribute to communities,

and grow as global citizens

during their summer break.

You’ll come home with

more than photos. This

experience will shape your

future and give you an edge

for college applications and

your resume. Learn More »

Sea Star Explorations

View Website »

Location(s): Florida, Belize,

Japan

Sea Star Explorations is an

educational travel organization

with a mission to foster

a deep understanding and

appreciation of the world’s

oceans and the communities

connected to them.

With decades of experience,

the Sea Star staff offers participants

an immersive and

active learning experience

in the U.S. and around the

world. Current programs

include snorkeling with

manatees in Florida, exploring

Belize's barrier reef,

and learning about marine

science and taking a cultural

tour of Japan. Learn More »

Seville Abroad: Summer Program

in Spain

View Website »

Location(s): Seville, Spain

Discover a unique, immersive Summer Program

in Seville. Live with a Spanish host family,

strengthen your language skills, and experience

authentic daily life through cooking workshops,

flamenco classes, kayaking, and other cultural

activities. Enjoy relaxed day trips to cities like

Córdoba or Granada. Explore charming villages,

visit beaches, and hike mountain trails. Escape

mass tourism and embrace a transformative

summer filled with learning, connection, and

unforgettable cultural experiences in beautiful

Seville. Join us next summer! Learn More »

United Synagogue Youth Summer

Experiences

View Website »


Spend your summer immersed in other cultures

and see the world from a different perspective. A

USY Summer Experience increases your independence

and gives you a better sense of self while

you form lifelong friendships with teens from

across North America. You'll develop a deeper

understanding of global issues and learn what it

means to repair the world by volunteering and

serving in local communities. Discover the joy

of Jewish living through fun, meaningful experiences

that create a lasting impact. Learn More »

Westcoast Connection

View Website »


We invite you to explore our 90+ summer

programs for middle school and high school

students, including active teen tours, global

adventures, pre-college enrichment, career experiences,

and community service. Share unforgettable

experiences with a group of your peers,

step out of your comfort zone, make new friends,

discover your passions, and grow. With 25 exciting

destinations to choose from, your summer of

a lifetime is waiting, and we can’t wait to share it

with you! Learn More »

Scan the QR code for more info on these programs

or visit teenlife.com/request-summer.


I loved our teacher, Dr. Robin. He always

kept us engaged and made learning medicine

the highlight of my summer. He taught us the

process doctors use to diagnose challenging cases

and the steps to differentiate various medical

conditions. Overall, I am so honored to have

done this program, which deepened my love

for medicine.

The previous summer, I also participated in

a competitive admissions summer program,

Primary Care, at the Boston Leadership Institute.

The teacher was a medical student at

the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The

students in my program loved her. I appreciated

how confident she was in the content because

of her extensive background.

Boston Leadership Institute

SKYLA LUZZI-PORCO

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

During the Biomedical and Surgical Research program,

we participated in a variety of activities that informed us

about the practice of medicine. Each week, we researched

and presented on various diseases. We worked in small

groups, which I enjoyed because I love collaborating

with classmates. These presentations helped me gain

confidence in public speaking. Before the program,

I was scared to talk in front of the class, and now I

can give a presentation without my heart racing.

We also performed mock surgeries. Doing an anastomosis

on a cow's heart was one of my favorite activities. We

also learned basic skills such as suturing, which I enjoyed

so much that I even bought my own suturing kit.

We did a variety of hands-on activities, including

reenacting annual check-ups and well-patient

visits. Our teacher played a great “patient.” We

practiced using splints and casts for arm and leg

injuries. Medical equipment was available for us

to use during abdominal exam practice. These

hands-on activities gave me insight into what it

would be like to be a medical practitioner and

also provided knowledge of anatomy and the

practical workings of the respiratory, circulatory,

and other systems. Because of these programs, I

decided to pursue a career in the medical field.

I enjoyed interacting with the other students

in the program and have made several lasting

friendships.

My initial exposure to Boston Leadership Institute

came through my older brother. In his

first year, he took Chemistry Edge to prepare

for his fall high school chemistry course. Later,

he took a forensics course, which helped solidify

his plans to pursue a STEM major. He returned

the next year and participated in a three-week

competitive admissions program, Biomedical

Engineering. He was so happy to be admitted

to Boston University, one of the leading institutions

in the country for this line of research.


PURSUING A CAREER IN ESPORTS

BY JODI IRELAND

he esports audience has grown to over 640

million viewers, with revenue projected to

exceed $1.7 billion in 2025. Even if you don’t

want to become a professional esports player,

there are dozens of careers options. Some roles don’t

require a degree, although they tend to pay less. But

300+ colleges have added esports programs since 2016.

ESPORTS DEGREE SPECIFICS

The esports degrees you can typically earn are a Bachelor

of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Business Administration

(B.B.A.), reflecting the industry’s focus on business,

technology, and management.

• Esports Management (B.S. or B.B.A.): The most

common degree, emphasizing the industry’s

business side.

• Esports Media & Communications (B.S.): Focuses

on broadcast, content creation, and public relations.

• Interdisciplinary Studies - Esports (B.S.): A

flexible degree drawing on courses from various

departments like business, communication, and

computer science.

SAMPLE CORE COURSES

Esports degree programs blend traditional business and

media courses with industry-specific subjects. A typical

program might include a combination of the following:

• Industry Overview: Introduction to Esports,

Contemporary Issues in Esports, Esports Structure

and Governance

• Business & Management: Esports Event Management,

Esports Consumerism, Sponsorship and

Marketing, Sports Financial Management

• Performance & Health: Esports Coaching and

Athlete Development, Esports Performance, Health

and Wellness in Esports, Esports Physical Training

• Media & Production: Esports Broadcasting, Social

Media Management, Digital Media Production

SPECIALIZATIONS WITHIN THE DEGREE

Most esports degree programs allow students to choose

a specialization track to help grow their skills and focus

on a specific career path.

• Esports Business Management: Focuses on

finance, entrepreneurship, organizational behavior,

and sponsorship contracts.

• Esports Communication: Focuses on public

relations, content creation, strategic communications,

and shoutcasting/commentary.

• Esports Media and Design: Focuses on broadcast

production, graphic design, 3D animation, and developing

visual assets for the gaming experience.

• Esports Coaching and Performance: Focuses on

team strategy, sport psychology, physical health, and

training methodologies for professional players.

• Esports IT and Technology: Focuses on computer

science, cybersecurity, and networking to maintain

digital infrastructure.

LAUNCHING A NON-GAMER

ESPORTS CAREER

The industry relies on a variety of professionals to

support professional gamersfor conceptualizing,

designing, building, programming, and testing the games.

BUILD RELEVANT SKILLS AND EDUCATION

Earn one of the degrees we’ve already mentioned or a

traditional degree in a relevant field like sports management,

marketing, computer science, or graphic design.

GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Join game jams contribute to open-source projects, or volunteer

for indie developers. Help run local or online tournaments

as a referee, bracket organizer, or setup crew. Start

an esports club at your high school. Look for internships.

Epic Games offers internships in tons of areas, including

game design, marketing, and more.

NETWORK RELENTLESSLY

Join online Twitch or Discord communities, and connect with

professionals. Attend industry events and go to major tournaments

to observe production, meet staff, and volunteer.

TRY A SUMMER PROGRAM

Esports summer programs allow you to have fun while

exploring potential careers in a growing industry. You’ll

improve your teamwork and leadership skills, and

perhaps find pathways toward college scholarships

and diverse careers.


ROLE

WHAT IT IS

AVER AGE

SALARY

REQUIRED

EDUCATION/TRAINING

AUDIO

ENGINEER/

SOUND

DESIGNER

The audio engineer is responsible for mixing and

balancing all audio sources, including in-game sound,

shoutcasters, interviews, and music, to deliver a clear,

professional, and dynamically balanced listening experience

for the esports broadcast. The sound designer

creates and implements sound effects, background

music, and voiceovers for the video game.

$149,118

Bachelor’s degree in audio

engineering, music production,

or a related field

ESPORTS EVENT

MANAGER

Event managers and production executives are responsible

for organizing and overseeing live or online esports

events, developing strategies, and coordinating with departments

and partners to ensure a successful outcome.

$50,000

Bachelor’s degree in esports

management, business,

marketing, or technology

SALES AND

DISTRIBUTION

The sales and distribution team is responsible for strategically

ensuring the game is available for purchase

across all relevant platforms, including digital storefronts

like Steam and physical console retail channels,

maximizing market reach and revenue.

$76,929

Bachelor’s degree in esports

management, business and

information technology, or

marketing

TOURNAMENT

ORGANIZER

A tournament organizer plans, coordinates, and

executes all aspects of competitive gaming events,

including logistics, venue setup, defining rules, managing

registration, securing sponsorships, and overseeing

high-quality broadcast production.

$70,000

Bachelor’s degree in sports

management, marketing,

business administration, or

communications

GAME

DESIGNER

A game designer uses creativity, analytical skills, and

an understanding of player psychology to design the

rules, systems, levels, and overall player experience to

make a game fun and engaging.

$95,185

Bachelor’s degree in game

design, computer science, digital

design, or software engineering

GAME

DEVELOPER

Game developers design and create video games by

writing code, developing game mechanics, and collaborating

with artists and designers to bring the final

product to life.

$103,000

Bachelor’s degree in computer

science, game design, or software

engineering

GAME

PROGRAMMER/

ENGINEER

The game programmer/ engineer writes the code for

gameplay mechanics, graphics rendering, AI, networking,

and physics, often specializing in areas like C++ or

C#, to make the game fully functional.

Entry-level:

$44,000

Senior-level:

$120,000+

Bachelor’s degree in computer

science, software engineering,

or game development/design

PRODUCTION &

BROADCASTING

MANAGERS

The production and broadcasting department at an

esports event manages a wide range of activities,

including lighting, camera work, streaming setup, and

the technical operation of screens, projectors, and

speakers. Often working in dedicated studios, they

adhere to a strict schedule, which may include editing

pre-recorded interviews.

$54,000

Bachelor’s degree in media management,

esports management,

sports management, business

administration, or marketing

SHOUTCASTER

(PLAY-BY-PLAY)

Shoutcasters or commentators enhance the viewing

experience by providing live, energetic play-by-play

analysis and commentary during esports matches.

$40,000 -

$70,000

No degree is required, as knowledge

and experience are more

critical; however, a bachelor’s

degree in broadcasting, journalism,

or communications is helpful

SEE MORE ESPORTS ROLES ON OUR BLOG


ilable Onsite o

n College Credi

watercolor, and representational exercises.

Summer enjoyed this structure and said, “I really

like how we get to try out the things we learn

after each lecture.”

Throughout the program, students participated

in desk crits: one-on-one sessions where instructors

offered feedback on projects. These

conversations helped Summer understand how

architects refine ideas and work through challenges.

Later, the cohort transitioned into digital

modeling, learning software that prepared them

for their culminating group project.

That final assignment involved designing a

bee-themed pavilion for the Charles River

Esplanade, a nod to the BAC mascot. The project

required students to think about structure,

materials, and the site’s ecological context.

Boston Architectural College:

Summer Programs

SUMMER WU

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

For rising Newton North High School sophomore

Summer Wu, BAC Summer Academy offered an

opportunity for her to expand on the architectural and

mechanical drafting skills she’s developing through her

school’s Career Technical Education program. When her

teacher recommended Summer Academy, with its blend

of lectures, studio work, and real design practice,

Summer decided it was the right program for her.

Each day began with an introduction to core design principles

— concepts instructors emphasized would remain

relevant throughout a designer’s career. In the studio,

students applied what they had learned through drawing,

Summer said, “We conducted some site research

and visited. The entire design is inspired by

bees, a theme you can interpret either metaphorically

or literally. We also get to decide on all the

materials. It's fun but also a big challenge for me

because I've never gone through the design process

before from beginning to end.” The experience

became one of the most memorable parts

of her time at the Academy.

Outside of the studio, Summer enjoyed the independence

of commuting by T each afternoon,

feeling connected to the city in a new way.

As she considers a future in architecture,

Summer finds inspiration in the field's creative

possibilities. “What excites me about potentially

going into the field of architecture is the idea of

being able to turn something in my brain into

something that I can see in the real world in

3-D,” she said.

Summer’s experience highlights the value of

choosing a program that offers hands-on experimentation

and the opportunity to move through

a full design process from concept to model.


THE VALUE OF NETWORKING

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

ant to level up your knowledge and

skills this summer? Go for it! But

here’s the best part: summer programs

are also powerful networking

hubs where you meet people

who can help shape your future.

A pre-college program, summer intensive, or another

in-depth academic session offers the perfect setting

to meet like-minded peers, instructors, future mentors,

and professionals in your dream field. Beyond the

connections, these enrichment programs challenge you

to pursue real goals. The projects, activities, and experiences

you tackle are the building blocks of your unique

story — one you can use immediately to impress

colleges or future employers.

NETWORKING DURING YOUR

SUMMER PROGRAM

Build your connections early — you never know

where they might lead. Consider this hypothetical:

you’re spending the summer conducting marine

biology research.

• During the program, you share your research

interests and college programs you like with

your mentor.

• They recommend additional colleges to explore,

and you connect on LinkedIn.

• After the program, while researching those colleges,

you message your mentor with a few follow-up

questions.

• In the fall, you apply to one of the schools they suggested;

it asks for a non-teacher recommendation.

• You ping your mentor again, who — thanks to your

ongoing communication — agrees to write that

letter for you.

While these scenarios aren’t guaranteed, you’d be

surprised how often a serendipitous connection can

shape your path. Making the effort to connect with

others isn’t a definite shortcut to reaching your goals,

but it certainly helps.

Don’t just show up to your program — make a lasting,

positive impression by engaging online or in the

classroom. Speak up in class, attend office hours,

ask smart questions, and use the feedback you get.

And connect with your peers, too. Learn about their

interests and hobbies, join the social activities (even

the awkward ones), and try to get to know everyone

in your group.

Once your program ends, stay in touch via social media,

emails, or text. Add your instructors and mentors on

LinkedIn or exchange emails, which is a professional and

effective way to maintain contact. Use an appropriate

email address (sparkleunicorn420@lolmail.com is not

a shareable email address. [your first initial][your last

name]@gmail.com is).

DOCUMENTING YOUR SKILLS

Participating in a summer program can help you impress

future hiring managers, employers, or college admissions

officers. Want your hard work to matter? Use

numbers and details to highlight your achievements.

Document your work by keeping a personal journal

or log to capture your progress and learning:

• Coding/tech: Track lines of code, bugs fixed, app

features implemented, or user engagement.

• Scientific research: Track experiments completed,

datasets collected, or findings shared.

• Arts/design: Track artwork created, performances,

exhibitions, or social engagement.

• Writing/journalism: Track published articles,

specific feedback, or readership numbers.

• Volunteering: Track meals served, materials

distributed, or events organized.

Record specifics and data whenever possible. Save

digital records of your work in a folder on your computer.

Include photos and videos of your art, performances,

and other in-person activities. The more you save,

the more options you’ll have for creating shareable

highlights, posts, or a professional portfolio later.


This record of your projects and accomplishments has

multiple benefits:

• You can reflect on your learning and how it inspires

your future goals.

• It’s easier to pull details to showcase on your resume

and on college applications.

• You’ve begun to create a shareable portfolio of your work.

Post these milestones on LinkedIn or other social media,

write a blog or article, or create a digital portfolio or website.

A PRO TIP

A PRO Think TIP: Think about about how to how make to make your documentation

your documentation

engaging engaging and and reader-friendly. For For example, example, turn turn your

your research experiment logs logs into into a a visual visual summary summary or or

infographic infographic for for your your portfolio, or or combine your volunteer

metrics metrics and photos and photos into an into Instagram an Instagram carousel. carousel.

BEING MINDFUL OF YOUR

ONLINE PRESENCE

As you gather material to post online, be smart about

your brand. Most people keep their personal social media

separate from their professional one, and you should, too.

For example, if you’re an artist, you might lock down your

personal Instagram to share life updates and jokes with

close friends and family. Separately, you could have a

public Instagram account where you only post your artwork

and follow and engage with professional artists.

Colleges and employers look for students who don’t

wait for permission. They want to see hustle, growth,

and real results. Your summer program experience is a

great way to show you have the “it” colleges want. But

wherever you share your summer highlights, always think

about who’s watching. A post intended for a college or

employer should:

• Show respect for your mentors, peers, or the

sponsoring institution. Thank them for their

guidance or contributions.

• Include photos of or links to your work so people

can learn more about you.

• Share takeaways. Show what you learned, how you

grew, and what you accomplished so colleges and

employers can see your potential.

Connect, create proof, and share it smartly. Do these three

things, and your summer experience won’t just look good

on paper — it’ll keep opening doors for years to come.


EXPERIENCE NYU

THIS SUMMER!

On-Site at NYU in NYC

NYU Career Edge High School

Summer Programs

• Explore Careers

• Stand Out on Your College Applications

• 1-Week Courses – 20+ Study Options

LEARN MORE

sps.nyu.edu/hsacademy/summer

ACADEMIC

Alpha Scholars Academic Research

and Writing Program

View Website »

Alpha Scholars is a rigorous social science research

program that supports the UN Sustainable Development

Goals (SDG) by teaching college-level research,

writing and presentation skills to high school students.

Participants work one-on-one with Harvard undergraduate

mentors in advanced study and research of a topic

related to their chosen SDG, culminating in a 12-15 page

research paper and 15-minute presentation. Top papers

are published online in the Harvard International Review.

Learn More »

ONLINE

SUMMER

PROGRAMS

Looking for a flexible, inspiring way

to spend part of your summer?

Online programs let you explore your

interests wherever you are. From

coding, creative writing, and business

start-ups to art, psychology, and

language immersion, virtual learning

opens doors to experiences once

limited to college classrooms. You'll

meet peers from everywhere, learn

from experts in their fields, and build

skills to help you stand out, whether

you're testing a possible college major

or trying something completely new.

It's summer learning on your terms,

whenever inspiration strikes.

Scan the QR code for

more info on these

programs or visit


American University: High School

Summer Scholars (Online)

View Website »

Discover your passion this summer with American

University’s High School Summer Scholars Program.

Designed for rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors,

this flexible online program lets you earn one college

credit in four weeks. Explore topics such as artificial

intelligence, justice reform, international diplomacy,

and sustainable development at your own pace. AU

professors stay connected through Canvas and virtual

office hours, helping you grow academically while still

enjoying your summer freedom. Learn More »

Columbia University: Online Summer Programs

View Website »

Interact with Columbia's world-class instructors and a

dynamic online learning platform. Students in grades 8-12

can challenge themselves and get a feel for the Ivy League

experience at home. Select one curricular option for an

in-depth examination of a specific subject area during

a 1- or 2-week session. This combination of academic

immersion and engaging extracurricular activities allows

students to explore their passions and hone skills that will

help them succeed in college and beyond. Learn More »

Cornell University’s Precollege

Online Programs

View Website »

Jumpstart your college journey by earning credits online

from Cornell University. Cornell's Precollege Online Program

gives rising junior and senior high school students

the opportunity to take flexible, college-level courses from

home. Strengthen your college applications and prepare

future success. Apply now to engage with distinguished

instructors, earn 3 to 12 credits, and receive a Cornell

transcript. Learn More »


Online Summer Programs


Crimson Global Academy:

Fast-Track Your Success with

Summer AP at CGA

View Website »

Crimson Global Academy’s Summer

AP courses offer ambitious students

the chance to complete a full-credit

AP subject in just 10 weeks. Choose

from AP Biology, Psychology, Statistics,

Computer Science Principles,

and more. Our live online classes

are led by expert teachers in small,

interactive groups. Whether you’re

looking to get ahead or explore a

new subject, CGA’s AP program helps

you stand out. Take your AP studies

further, faster, with CGA.

Learn More »

Dartmouth Precollege Online

Summer Program

View Website »

Experience the famous Dartmouth

spirit anywhere, anytime with

the Dartmouth Precollege Online

Program. Designed by instructors

for ambitious students aged 13 and

older, our flexible courses feature engaging

video lessons and resources.

Here’s your chance to explore diverse

academic fields and receive mentor

support while you’re in high school.

Learn More »

Georgetown University


View Website »

Georgetown University offers precollege

online enrichment and college

credit-bearing courses, helping

you to kickstart your college career.

Choose from a wide variety of top

courses spanning medicine, business,

law, and government featuring

distinguished professors, expert

mentors, and engaging, interactive

videos. Study anytime, anywhere,

on your schedule. Why wait? Apply

today! Learn More »

ICL Academy Summer

Programming

View Website »

Make the most of your summer! Unlock

your future faster with ICL Academy Summer

Courses. Choose accelerated learning

and fast-track your academic success.

All ICL summer courses are asynchronous,

giving our students the flexibility to

train, compete, and travel. Students may

take a maximum of two credits during

the summer, with three different options

for summer coursework. Earn a full

year credit with a 12-week course, a one

semester credit with a 6-week course,

or choose a micro-course, which is non

credit-bearing. Learn More »


View Website »

Step into the shoes of global leaders.

Tackle pressing issues, enhance your

speaking and debate skills, gain confidence,

and receive daily personalized

feedback from champion mentors. Make

friends who care about the world. Experience

MUN simulations, speaking labs,

trivia, games, and explore your dream

campus. The MUN Institute’s electric

atmosphere, filled with flags and positive

energy, will bring out the best in you,

inspiring you to debate diplomatically in

our polarized society, try MUN at school,

and change the world!

Learn More »

Northwestern Pre-College

Online Summer Program

View Website »

Northwestern's Pre-College Online

Program is your opportunity to immerse

yourself in the world of business while

still in high school. Explore leading-edge

topics like business, law, medicine, and

STEM through engaging video lessons led

by acclaimed Northwestern professors

and industry experts. The flexible, online

structure lets you study from anywhere,

you’ll receive mentor guidance, and

complete a final capstone project to

build practical skills for your future.

Learn More »

Notre Dame Pre-College Online

Summer Program

View Website »

The University of Notre Dame seeks

individuals whose intellect is matched

by their drive to make a meaningful

contribution. If you are a driven high

school student and our principals

and values resonate with you, know

that we now offer pre-college online

courses featuring video lessons by

distinguished faculty and access to

expert mentors. Best of all, the online

program is available year-round,

allowing you to study when your

schedule allows. Learn More »

Pioneer Academics: Global

Problem-Solving Institute

View Website »

The Global Problem-Solving Institute

brings together outstanding students

from around the world to tackle realworld

global challenges like climate

change and water pollution through

interdisciplinary thinking and collaborative

design. Selected students

work individually and collaboratively,

engaging with multiple university

professors to apply systems thinking,

design, and interdisciplinary

approaches. This fully-accredited,

virtual, research-based program cultivates

students’ leadership potential,

offering college credits from UNC

Chapel Hill during three terms (fall,

spring, and summer). Learn More »

Pioneer Research Institute

View Website »

Recognized globally as the most

rigorous and prestigious research

opportunity for high school students,

The Pioneer Research Institute is the

world’s first and only fully accredited

online research institute. Since 2012,

we have enabled top scholars to

conduct original research under the

mentorship of leading university

professors. Learn More »




Rice University

Precollege Program

View Website »

Are you a motivated high

school student hoping to

test out a subject before

college? The Rice University

Precollege Program

offers online courses in

a wide range of fields,

from business and law

to aerospace, medicine,

engineering, and more.

Learn from top Rice professors

through engaging

tech-forward videos,

collaborate with experienced

mentors, and earn

a Certificate of Completion

from Rice University.

Learn More »

Wake Forest

University: Online

Immersion Program

View Website »

Wake Forest University’s

online immersion courses

for high school students

cover a range of subjects

like medicine, psychology,

business, and law. Watch

videos, hear from Wake

Forest professors, and

receive guidance from a

mentor. Study at your own

pace, complete a final capstone

project, and earn a

Certificate of Completion.

Learn More »

William & Mary

Pre-College Online

Program

View Website »

Curious about how to prepare

for your future? Consider

exploring entrepreneurship,

psychology, law

or medicine. We designed

our online courses for aspiring

high school students.

You’ll hear from W&M

professors, receive support

from a mentor. Our flexible

format allows you to study

on your own schedule and

at your own pace. Earn a

Certificate of Completion

and jump-start your future

today. Learn More »

World Scholars Academy |

World-Class Academics

View Website »

Stand out in competitive college

admissions with World Scholars

Academy’s elite online summer

courses and research internships.

Receive exceptional academic guidance

through exclusive micro-group live

classes led by distinguished instructors

from top global universities, including

Oxford and Cambridge. Eligible

participants also receive a personalized

letter of recommendation to support

future university or internship

applications. Limited places available

across leading disciplines, including

business, medicine, law, engineering,

and computer science for aspiring

world scholars ages 12-18.

Learn More »

Get Ahead.

Get Inspired.

Vanderbilt Precollege

Programs for Grades 7–12

Challenge yourself with rigorous,

hands-on courses and get a

taste of the college experience at

Vanderbilt. From Med School 101

to Data Science to Legal Studies,

discover what inspires you.

APPLICATIONS

NOW OPEN for

SUMMER 2026

APPLY TODAY!



Write The World:

Virtual Writing Camp

View Website »

Join our virtual summer

writing camps and

become absorbed in a

vibrant community of

young writers (ages 13-

19). Explore poetry, sci-fi,

and fiction, or expand

your craft by learning to

write a novel. Work with

published authors and

educators through interactive

activities, connect

with peers worldwide,

and receive expert feedback

to grow your skills.

Whether you’re new to

writing or refining your

voice, you’ll build lasting

confidence and creativity.

Learn More »

ARTS

Parsons Paris

Online Courses

View Website »

Parsons Paris offers an

online program designed

for those seeking a

future in fashion. Explore

subjects like fashion business,

design, sustainability,

and building a brand.

Fashion experts design all

online courses, which also

feature engaging videos

to enhance your learning.

Study anytime, anywhere,

at your own pace and

receive a Certificate of

Completion from

Parsons Paris.

Learn More »

BUSINESS &

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

LaunchX Summer

Programs

View Website »

Join us in 2026 and take your

next step as a young entrepreneur.

From our foundational

BootCamp to starting a real

revenue-generating business in

under five weeks, our programs

give you the tools to grow and

succeed. Learn from industry

experts who will guide you while

developing and growing your

skills as an entrepreneur. Apply

early to save on your application

fee and get your decision

sooner. Financial awards are

available for select programs.

Learn More »

Teach Me Wall Street

Summer Programs

View Website »

Step into the world of business &

investing this summer with Teach

Me Wall Street Summer Programs.

Wall Street 101 breaks down the

mechanics of Wall Street, introduces

the major players, and teaches you

how to analyze stocks, bonds, and

more. In Investing & Trading, you’ll

place trades, build a portfolio, and

learn how to grow your wealth over

time. You can also test your skills

in the Teen Investor Cup, an investing

competition where you choose

strong stocks and trades, track

your ranking on the leaderboard,

and compete for a cash prize.

Taught virtually by real Wall Street

professionals, our programs help

teens build financial independence,

explore career paths, and pave their

way toward futures in business or

finance. Learn More »



VisionnaireX: Custom

1:1 Passion Projects

with Industry Leaders

& Endorsements from

CXOs

View Website »

Pursue your passion project

directly with directors, CXOs

and industry leaders from top

U.S. and European companies

in business, innovation,

healthtech, and artificial intelligence.

VisionnaireX offers

the world’s first ever custom

1:1 mentorship for ambitious

teens who build real projects,

earn powerful recommendations

from CXOs, and gain a

global professional portfolio

that stands out in university

applications and careers.

Apply early to secure your

mentor and start your journey

as a future innovator and

business/tech leader.

Learn More »

CAREER

EXPLORATION &

LEADERSHIP

Design Tech High School

Innovation Certificate

Program

View Website »

Learn the skills necessary to

succeed in college and life. In

a world of rapidly evolving AI,

our online programs will help

you leverage design thinking

and AI to develop yourself as

a leader, entrepreneur, and

innovator. Whether you like

to sleep late or start early,

you can choose from morning

or afternoon sessions. Our

Innovation Certificate also

offers 3 units of pre-college

credits from UC San Diego

Department of Extended

Studies. Enroll today & prepare

for the future you want!

Learn More »

HEALTHCARE

Harvard Medical School

Pre-College Online

Certificate Program

View Website »

Designed for motivated high

school students ages 13 and

older, the Harvard Medical

School Pre-College Online

Certificate Program offers the

opportunity for those aspiring

to work in the healthcare

field to explore the world of

medicine. Our online medical

science courses provide a

rigorous and engaging curriculum

led by Harvard Medical

School faculty. Through

real-world applications and

interactive tools, students will

gain a deeper understanding

of human biology, disease,

and the innovative technologies

shaping the future of

health. Learn More »

Portage Learning

View Website »

Portage Learning offers a flexible

approach to earning college

credit through its rolling

enrollment and asynchronous

online courses. This structure

allows students to begin a class

at any time during the year and

progress through lessons on

their own schedule, without

fixed deadlines or mandatory

meeting times. We designed

our courses to fit each learner's

pacing needs, making classes

ideal for students balancing

work, school, or personal commitments.

Upon successful

completion, students can receive

fully transferrable college

credit issued through one of

Portage Learning's regionally

accredited partner institutions,

ensuring recognition by many

colleges and universities.

Learn More »



STEM

Boston Leadership Institute:

Online STEM Research

Programs

View Website »

Our breakout hit remote programs

from summer 2020 have remained

popular after all these years.

Chose from Remote Biotech

Research, Remote Biomedical &

Surgical Research, and Remote

STEM Entrepreneurship. We send

kits with all the supplies our students

need right to their homes!

Learn More »

Case Western Reserve


View Website »

STEM courses are the cornerstone

for anyone interested in the fields

of science, technology, engineering,

or mathematics. High school

student interested in exploring

these subjects should start with

Case Western Reserve’s online

pre-college program. Learn from

our expert instructors and stay

engaged through interactive videos.

Study anytime, anywhere, at

your own pace. Apply today! Learn

More »

DigiPen Academy Pre-College

Summer Programs

View Website »

Learn Game Design, Video Game

Programming, Animation, or Music

& Sound Design this summer with

DigiPen Academy's four-week online

courses. The curriculum aligns

with DigiPen Institute of Technology's

highly ranked programs.

Gain college-level skills and a

transcript for your college application.

Dive into core concepts with

expert instructors in the mornings

and immerse yourself in projects

as a programmer, game designer,

artist, or sound designer in the

afternoons. Join us for an engaging

learning experience. Learn More »

Integem: Summer Camps,

Research & Startup Programs

View Website »

Join the #1 AI & AR program, in-person

and online. Build AI robots/drones, create

3D AR games/animations, and earn

NVIDIA AI Certificates. No experience

needed. In our Research Institute,

investigate frontier research in science,

engineering, and humanities with AI

& cutting-edge tech and publish with

PhD mentors. In our online Startup

Academy, turn your passion in tech,

design, business, gaming or sports into

an innovative startup with Silicon Valley

mentors. Integem is a NVIDIA AI partner

and WASC accredited. Join over 200K

students building the future.

Learn More »

Summit STEM Fellowship (SSF)

View Website »

The Summit STEM Fellowship (SSF)

brings together top STEM students

around the world. Students learn from

mentors at Harvard, Stanford, and

MIT, explore diverse opportunities and

careers in STEM, and join an alumni

network spanning 50+ countries. The

fellowship has a flexible 10-15 hour/

week commitment, allowing students

to participate alongside other summer

activities. The program reviews applications

on a rolling basis. In 2025, the

program received 4,200+ applications

from 100+ countries, so students are encouraged

to apply as early as possible.

Learn More »

University of Rochester

Precollege Online Program

View Website »

STEM courses are the cornerstone

for anyone interested in the fields of

science, medicine, engineering, and

technology. High school studenst interested

in these exciting subjects should

start with Rochester’s pre-college online

program. Learn from expert professors,

stay engaged through tech-forward, interactive

videos, and study at your own

pace. Apply today! Learn More »

Veritas AI - AI Program

for Ambitious Middle &

High School Students

View Website »

Founded & run by Harvard graduate

students & alumni, Veritas AI is an AI

program for high school students. In the

program, students learn the fundamentals

of AI and build an independent project

using AI (example projects include:

using AI to detect cancerous cells, using

neural networks to detect football shot

location, and assessing the health of a

farmland using satellite imagery).

Programs available - AI Scholars, AI

Fellowship, Deep Dives Programs in AI +

Finance and AI + Medicine.

Learn More »

YoungWonks Coding For

Kids and Teens

View Website »

YoungWonks is one of the most prestigious

and longest-running Coding for

Kids programs in the United States.

YW students have secured prestigious

internships at NASA, gained acceptance

to leading colleges like MIT, and won

numerous coding & robotics competitions

through the skills, opportunities,

and mentorship our programs provide.

Develop your skills in coding, UI/UX, 3D

modeling and animations, or AI video

editing at one of our summer camp

programs, which are our bootcamp-style

versions of our ongoing courses. Classes

are 1:1 or 4:1. Learn More »

Scan the QR code for

more info on these

programs or visit





TUTORING/TEST PREP

BridgeUp

View Website »

BridgeUp helps students master

AP exams through adaptive learning

technology. Our platform offers

multiple choice practice with

instant feedback, free response

coaching, core concept review,

and full-length practice tests—all

designed to meet you where you

are. Study on your schedule, focus

on what matters most, and get

the personalized support you

need to earn top scores and college

credit. Learn More »

SoFlo Tutors:

SAT/ACT Test Prep

View Website »

Hannah raised her SAT by 270

points. Akash scored 1580 after a

170-point jump. JT lifted his ACT

score by 5 points in 6 weeks. Our

expert tutors turn stressful test

prep into real score gains, with

personalized strategies, expert

coaching, and proven systems

that work. Your student will work

1-on-1 with their SAT or ACT tutor

during sessions scheduled when

it's convenient for you. Learn

more today. Learn More »

Scan the QR code for more

info on these programs

or visit teenlife.com/

request-summer

Teenage Summer

Language Courses

2026 Camps in Spain, France

Germany and Japan

Share your language

adventure with other teens

Visit us now at:

cesalanguages.com

info@cesalanguages.com

Spanish | French | Italian | German | Portuguese | Russian | Japanese | Chinese | Arabic

BELMONT SUMMER CAMPS

FOR BEST SUMMER EVER,

JUST ADD:

SCIENCE

THEATRE

FASHION DESIGN

SPORTS

ART

MUSIC

MATH

ARCHITECTURE

HEALTH

INTERIOR DESIGN

With camp experiences for elementary, middle and high school students,

Belmont’s the place to be. From the court to the classroom, the stage to the

science lab, there’s plenty to learn (and plenty of fun to be had!).

Give your child an easy answer to the question, “What did you do this summer?”

For more information and to register, visit BELMONT.EDU/SUMMER-CAMPS

We heard from so many incredible mentors who

walked us through the skills they developed and

harnessed to succeed in high school, and who

inspired us fellows to make an impact.

Summit STEM Fellowship

ANNE LEE

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

When I applied to the Summit STEM Fellowship,

I was only a high school freshman interested in math,

computer science, and engineering, but I had no idea

how to apply them to something I could pursue in the

real world. The fellowship’s mentorship opportunities,

strong community, and STEM resources really appealed

to me. I liked the idea of learning firsthand how people

my age had made real impacts and the lessons they

learned from their experiences. I participated in SSF

because it seemed like the perfect way to explore

STEM beyond the classroom.

Fortunately, I was accepted into the program and

immediately knew that the Summit STEM Fellowship

was the right choice. Thanks to the program’s flexibility

and part-time commitment, I could attend over the

summer while pursuing other opportunities. The

schedule was one of the most appealing features initially

because I could participate fully alongside my other

classes and activities.

The schedule varied each day, which made the experience

exciting and full of surprises. Weekday programming

began around 4 or 5 p.m. PST and lasted until 7 or

8 p.m., depending on that day’s schedule. Fireside Chats

(the main lectures) occurred every weekday for an hour.

STEM Shorts happened three times a week.

These chats were more technical and introduced

us to a wide array of subjects and resources. Skill

Builders also occurred twice a week, consisting of

short lessons on crucial skills we would need to

be successful in the future. Career panels, which

brought in STEM professionals to answer questions,

share their daily lives and responsibilities,

and offer advice on pursuing similar paths, were

among my favorite events. Other fun weekly

activities included Science Trivia Nights and

Game and Networking Nights.

Every Friday included the weekend Ideathon,

which presented a hands-on challenge for our

teams to take on. There were also office hours on

Saturdays, which gave students an opportunity

to meet one-on-one with their mentors.

The most memorable moment for me was seeing

the community’s support. I had recently started

a nonprofit called Toys 4 Joys Global, which

donates handmade crocheted stuffed animals to

those in need. We had struggled to gain outreach

for our initiative, so I posted our need for volunteers

to the fellowship’s discussion board, and

almost thirty eager fellows filled out our interest

form. I also received a ton of supportive comments,

and others connected with me on Slack.

The advice I would offer teens considering attending

similar programs is that you get what

you put in. If you treat the experience just as a

box to check for your resume, you likely won’t

have the same fulfillment that I did. On the

other hand, showing up curious and open to new

ideas will change how you think about yourself

and your future. Summit STEM gave me mentors

for advice, friends who share my passions,

and the motivation to pursue ambitious goals,

which I will carry with me for years to come.


WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER

A SUMMER PROGRAM ON AI

BY JODI IRELAND

ummertime means break time, right? A break

from tests and lectures, time at the lake, or traveling

someplace new. But what if you love technology

(especially video games) and you’re leaning toward

doing something after high school in the tech field? Maybe

you’ve heard of Marques Brownlee (MKBHD) or Austin

Evans, Aphmau, PewDiePie or Mark Rober. Or you know

a little about AI, machine learning, or data science, even

if you haven’t studied those topics at school.

Curious to learn more? Why not check out a summer

program with an AI focus! Learning about artificial intelligence

can help you future-proof your life and grow your

understanding of the world you already live in. From the

TikTok algorithm that knows exactly which video to show

you next to Netflix’s recommendation engine, AI is everywhere.

It’s a foundational skill for the 21st century, much

like reading and writing were in the last century. And

your summer break is the perfect, low-pressure time

to explore it.

DECONSTRUCTED: WHAT ARE THESE

BUZZWORDS, ANYWAY?

Before you commit to a camp, let’s break down the jargon.

• Artificial intelligence (AI): Think of it as the “big goal.”

It’s the science of making machines that can mimic

human intelligence through learning, reasoning, and

problem-solving. Siri, Alexa, self-driving cars, ChatGPT,

and Snapchat algorithms rely heavily on AI. It’s the

umbrella over everything.

• Machine learning (ML): This technology teaches

computers to learn without explicit instruction. An ML

program feeds the computer a huge amount of data

(thousands of pictures, millions of songs, all search

results from one year). Then the computer’s algorithm

crunches the data to identify specific patterns

and rules. Instead of using human-written rules, the

computer generates its own mathematical rules from

the data. Then, the computer uses the patterns it has

learned to make a prediction or decision.

• Data science (DS): DS uses math, coding, and computers

to solve problems and uncover hidden patterns and

insights in large datasets. A data scientist identifies the

main issue they want to solve, gathers information to

answer the question, cleans the data, and uses ML to

identify relevant patterns.

A good summer program connects the dots even as you

learn coding. You’ll use data science to gather information,

train an ML model, and create a cool piece of AI.

WHY AI IS AN ESSENTIAL SKILL

You often hear that AI is changing the job market. That’s true

— but let’s flip the script. Instead of viewing AI as something

that’s going to take jobs, think of it as a tool that will supercharge

existing careers and make possible careers that don’t

even exist yet.

CRITICAL THINKING FOR THE DIGITAL AGE

Learning AI requires learning to code, and along the way you

also improve your problem-solving and logical thinking skills.

Every AI project starts with a problem: How can we predict

the weather better? How can we tell if this piece of writing is an

original essay or generated by a chatbot?

In an AI-focused summer program, you’ll learn to break

down complex problems into smaller, manageable steps —

a skill that comes in handy for math, history, figuring out

college application strategies, and more. Instructors will

encourage you to think critically about the technology itself.

OLD WAY OF THINKING

“The computer is always right.”

“This tool can do everything.”

“I can only use this for a tech job.”

AI-LITERATE WAY OF THINKING

“Where did the data come from? Is it biased?”

“What are the limitations of this model?”

“How can I use this to improve healthcare,

art, or environmental science?”


The American Psychological Association (APA) and other

major organizations believe that AI literacy is a crucial life

skill for adolescents today. It’s important to scrutinize the

source, as AI-generated content can often appear authoritative,

even when it’s entirely incorrect or biased.

A CAREER BOOST, REGARDLESS

OF MAJOR

Learning more about AI is a game-changer for college

applications. Consider these hypothetical scenarios:

If you’re interested in studying environmental science,

you could attend an AI summer program and build an

ML model to predict flash floods based on satellite data.

Thinking about a music career? You could take a summer

program and learn how to use ML to analyze the musical

features of different songs and use that data to compose

new melodies in the style of your favorite artist.

The takeaway? Every field, from medicine and law to fashion

and farming, will be seeking people who can perform

their job and leverage AI to do it better. Gaining a foundational

understanding of AI and data science now gives you

a massive head start, regardless of your eventual career

path. Taking a technology-focused summer program

shows college admissions officers and future employers

that you’re already thinking about your future.

SUMMER TECH PROGRAMS FTW!

While you could watch YouTube tutorials on Python (AI’s

primary coding language), a dedicated summer program

offers things an online video can’t.

COLLABORATION AND MENTORSHIP

AI, ML, and data science summer programs are typically

project-based. You’ll work on a team with other students

and be led by grad students or working professionals

from top universities and companies.

You’ll engage with real-world projects, learning how

to use ML and AI to solve challenges like improving a

hospital’s patient scheduling processes or building a

computer vision model to identify different bird species.

This hands-on experience is priceless.

Whether participating virtually or in person, you’ll meet

people who share your intellectual curiosity, forming a

network of future engineers, artists, and entrepreneurs.

The person you code with this summer might become

your co-founder in a few years!

MAKE LEARNING FUN

Let’s face it: learning something new and complex is way

more fun when it’s gamified and interactive. Summer

programs specialize in this approach, taking concepts that

seem dry in a textbook (think statistical modeling or neural

networks) and turning them into engaging projects.

WHAT

YOU LEARN:

How an AI “sees” things

(computer vision)

WHAT YOU DO:

Build an image classifier to

differentiate between a golden

retriever and a labradoodle

The focus shifts to application and creation, not just theory

— a strategy that helps concepts stick and turns a complex

subject into something you’ll enjoy and maybe want to

explore further.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: A QUICK CHECKLIST

When comparing summer programs, keep this rubric in mind:

PROJECT-BASED

LEARNING

Is the program’s core

building a tangible

project you can put

in your portfolio?

EXPERIENCED

MENTORS

Who’s teaching the class?

Look for programs led by

university students/professors

(Harvard, Stanford, MIT) or

industry professionals.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY

TRACKS

Does the program explicitly state

that you don’t need prior coding

experience? A good program

teaches the tools (like Python and

its libraries) from the ground up.

A FOCUS ON ETHICS

Does the program discuss

the importance of AI ethics and

bias? This topic is essential,

showing the program is

focused on creating

responsible innovators.

Summer’s the perfect time to learn something new;

growth doesn’t have to mean sitting in a stuffy classroom.

Exploring AI, ML, and data science in a dedicated program

is a great way to transform a love of video games or social

media into a valuable, future-proof skill set. It can mean

the difference between being a tech consumer and a

creator of the future.



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.

Summer Discovery

SHAYNA MILLMAN

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

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.

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.


ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR TRAVELING ABROAD:

Pack, prepare, and practice respect

BY JODI IRELAND

HEY FUTURE GLOBETROTTER!

You’ve chosen your summer program and booked your

flight. Soon you’ll board a plane to an incredible, faraway

place where your real adventure awaits. But before you

grab your carry-on, there are a few things you need to

master: knowing the local “vibe” (unspoken rules of respect),

knowing what to wear, and packing a smart first-aid kit.

Getting these things right will help you be a confident, cool

(and prepared) traveler.

THE RULES OF RESPECT: TIPPING,

GREETINGS, AND DRESS CODES

If you want to make a good impression (and avoid looking

like a clueless or classless tourist), start by being respectful.

Here are three non-negotiables:

1. Tipping on a tightrope

What you do with money differs dramatically depending

on where you are. In the U.S., tipping 15% to 20%

is standard for good service. Overseas? Toss that

assumption aside.

• In Japan, tipping is considered rude or even insulting.

Service is expected to be excellent.

• In much of Europe, your bill might already include a

small service charge, or you can just round up the total

to the nearest euro or two. Handing over an extra

€5 isn’t necessary and might get you a weird look.

• A good rule of thumb? Do a quick Google search for

your specific country before you leave, and ask your

program coordinator about the expectations. Don’t

let the fear of awkward money exchanges stop you

from enjoying an amazing meal.

2. The greeting game

You might feel the most awkward when greeting a citizen

from a different country, but it’s actually fun. Shaking

hands is pretty standard worldwide, but depending

on the country, you may find that people shake with

two hands, bow slightly, or do the European air-kiss (or

kisses — sometimes one, two, or even three air-kisses).

• In certain Asian countries, a bow signifies deep

respect, and the depth of your bow matters. Don’t

stress too much, but watch how the locals interact

with their elders or people in authority.

• In Latin countries, Spain, and France, expect a closer,

more personal greeting, often involving cheek-to-cheek

kisses or a hug, even with people you’ve just met.

• When in doubt, let the local make the first move.

A friendly, confident smile and eye contact are

universally good starters.

3. Dress code decorum

Your summer wardrobe might consist of tank tops and

shorts, but make sure your packing list includes a few

items that cover more skin. Covering your shoulders

and legs is a way to show respect for sacred places and

avoid inadvertently insulting local modesty standards.

When I took students to Italy and Greece every summer,

I knew that cathedrals and other places of worship

required a certain level of formality in what visitors wore.

I reminded my students to bring scarves or sweaters,

and to wear below-the-knee shorts or a long skirt. Some

churches we visited, like Basilica di San Marco in Venice

and the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani in Paros,

provided paper drapes to cover bare shoulders.

Pack a lightweight cardigan, plus a skirt or pants you can

fold and stash in your knapsack for visits to sacred sites.

THE INTERNATIONAL FIRST-AID KIT

When you go exploring, things get, well, adventurous.

You can’t always rely on a foreign apothecary, chemist, or

pharmacy (depending on where you go) to have the brand

or medication you know. Make room in your luggage for a

small, personalized first-aid kit.

• Guard your GI tract

The number one item to pack? A small bottle of

Pepto-Bismol or Immodium. New foods and new

water (even if you’re drinking bottled water) can mess

with your stomach and digestive system. Better to

have this item and not need it than be stuck in a hotel

restroom wishing you had.


• Blister band-aids and painkillers

You’re going to walk. A lot. Pack blister-specific

bandages like Band-Aid’s Hydro Seal or Dr.

Frederick’s Original Better Blister Bandages.

Also, toss in a small supply of your preferred

pain reliever (Tylenol, Advil, Aleve, etc.). You

don’t want a headache ruining your day at a

famous monument.

• Personal prescriptions and allergy meds

If you need an EpiPen, inhaler, or other daily

medicine, pack more than you need, and carry a

copy of your prescription in case customs asks.

Even if you only get seasonal allergies, a small

pack of Benadryl is a lifesaver for unexpected

reactions to local pollens or foods.

• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

A simple truth of travel? Not every public restroom

will have soap. Stash a travel-sized hand

sanitizer in your bag. Your immune system will

thank you!

Traveling overseas is one of the most exciting things

you’ll do. A few minutes of preparation now will

set you up for a successful summer program that’s

memorable for all the right reasons.

PRESCRIPTIONS

PAIN RELIEF

STOMACH

CARE

OTHER

FOOT CARE

ABRASIONS

ESSENTIAL FIRST-AID CHECKLIST

CATEGORY ITEM NOTES

Daily meds

Allergy meds

Pain reliever/

fever reducer

Anti-diarrheal

Antacid/upset

stomach relief

Motion sickness

relief

Blister bandages

Antiseptic wipes/

cream

Enough for the entire trip plus a few days.

Keep in original bottles with labels.

Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl, Zyrtec)

for unexpected reactions.

Your preferred type (e.g., Acetaminophen/Tylenol

or Ibuprofen/Advil).

Immodium or equivalent. Essential for

unexpected food/water issues.

Pepto-Bismol tablets or similar.

If you plan on long bus rides, ferries,

or flights.

Get the gel-filled kind, which are

lifesavers for walking tours.

Small packets of alcohol or iodine wipes

or a travel tube of Neosporin.



between programs, Oxford stood out immediately

— the energy, the reputation, the atmosphere —

it all felt right.

A typical day in the program was a blend of

structure and freedom. Mornings usually began

with classes led by passionate, knowledgeable

instructors who made learning feel exciting

rather than overwhelming. After lunch, the city

itself became part of our education. I’d walk with

friends through those narrow, historic streets,

discovering cafés, gardens, and libraries that

looked like they belonged in another century.

Every day felt meaningful, and somehow every

day felt different.

Oxford Summer Courses

REBAR MOHAMMAD

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

Participating in the Oxford program has been one of the

most transformative experiences of my life. Not only

did I choose to join the program once, but I returned

three times — something I would gladly continue doing

every single year. Each summer offered something new

to learn, someone new to meet, and some moment that

stayed with me long after I returned home. By now,

Oxford feels less like a program and more like a

second home.

I initially chose to participate because I wanted an

experience that would push me out of my comfort zone.

I wanted to grow, challenge myself academically, and

discover what I was capable of in an environment of inspiration

and history. But what really convinced me was

the unique balance Oxford offers: serious learning mixed

with experiences that make you feel alive, independent,

and part of something bigger. When I was deciding

But the moment that always stayed with me

was punting on the river. It sounds simple, but

it was magical every single year. Sitting on the

boat with friends from around the world —

the water calm, the trees reflecting perfectly,

the old bridges above us — felt unreal. It’s the

kind of moment where you stop and think, “I’m

really here.” The view, the laughter, the feeling

of being connected to people you met just days

before… It’s something I wish everyone could

experience at least once.

One of the best parts of the program was the

international friendships. I met people from so

many different countries, each with their own

stories, cultures, and perspectives. Some of those

friendships have lasted long after the program

ended. Learning from them taught me how big

the world is — and how much we all have in

common regardless of where we come from.

My advice to teens considering programs like

this is simple: go for it. Take the step. You don’t

need to be perfect, confident, or certain — you

just need to be open. These programs help you

grow in ways you don’t expect. They give you

memories you’ll hold onto for life, and they open

doors you didn’t even know existed.

Oxford changed me — three times — and I

would return again without hesitation.


IS A SUMMER PROGRAM ENOUGH

TO DECIDE ON A FULL GAP YEAR?

BY STEFANIE TEDARDS

magine it’s August of your senior year of high school,

and you’ve just wrapped up the best summer of

your life. Maybe you volunteered with a clean-water

initiative, lived with a host family for an immersive

language program abroad, or joined an outdoor leadership

program to learn expedition and navigation

skills. Now, you’re wondering: What’s next?

There are many reasons to take a gap year — but how do

you know if it’s right for you? Is a great summer program

experience enough to know?

Ask yourself these questions after your summer program

and before deciding on a gap year.

SELF-REFLECTION

1. What did I enjoy most about my summer

program? Why?

List everything you loved — a new type of food

you tried abroad, a career panel that inspired a

potential career path, or a favorite project, lab,

or performance. Try to articulate what made it a

top experience.

If you loved exploring a foreign city, what was the

best part? Was it visiting historic sites with your

program friends, improving your language skills, or

speaking with locals and learning more about the

culture? Be specific and concrete to help you tease

apart the fun and meaningful experiences.

2. Which parts of the program challenged me

the most?

Even the best summer programs have their not-sofun

moments. What parts of your program intimidated

you? Was it academic rigor or homesickness?

Did the program challenge you to think more deeply

about your identity or future?

Once you’ve identified a few challenges, think about

how you see them now. Did you successfully overcome

them, or just muddle through? Consider what

those moments revealed about you — your habits,

strengths, and the areas where you might want

to grow.

3. Did I enjoy the independent living aspect, or

was I just enjoying a “program bubble”?

Summer programs do build independence, but

there’s a big difference between participating in a

structured program and living independently for a full

year. If you liked the lack of chores and making new

friends, college dorm life offers this type of structured

independent living.

Consider the parts that weren’t as curated. How

did you handle navigating campus, managing your

schedule, or solving problems without much help?

Did you feel capable and energized by that freedom,

or mostly relieved that the program kept everything

running smoothly? Your reactions can help you decide

what level of independence you’re ready for.

4. Did I feel motivated and engaged every day,

or only in certain activities?

Which activities or program elements excited you, like

lectures, hands-on projects, or social activities where

you could connect with your peers? Identify what you

naturally gravitated toward and what energized you

(and didn’t feel like a chore).

If you loved your classes, consider jumping straight

into college. On the other hand, if you loved the

hands-on part of your internship but loathed its

coursework, working or interning for a year might be

better. Your preferences don’t have to dictate your

entire path, but they can give you a useful signal

about what you want.

5. How did my summer program help clarify my

goals/vision of the future?

Now you can dig into the “why” motivating your

interest in a gap year. If your program confirmed

your desire to study healthcare to become a nurse or

doctor, immediately starting school and earning the

credentials makes sense.

However, if you want to go into healthcare but

haven’t narrowed it down further, a gap year gives


you the space to test different paths before you commit

to an expensive, four-year degree. Taking a year to complete

an internship or shadowing program can help you

decide which role you want and what degree you need

to qualify for it.

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

6. Am I curious and motivated enough to create my

own learning experiences for a year?

Cultivating curiosity will yield a successful gap year.

How will you push yourself out of your comfort zone and

keep learning? Reflect on your high school career — did

you ever try a new hobby or skill outside of school, just

for fun?

If you can’t pinpoint anything, a gap year may not be as

productive an option, but you can still take one! Plan

accordingly by exploring gap year programs, internships,

volunteer organizations, or classes that provide structure,

direction, and accountability during your year off.

7. Can I handle the logistical and financial aspects

of a full gap year?

Deciding to take a gap year shows maturity and budding

independence — if you follow through. Taking a break

from school is the first (and frankly easiest) part of taking

a gap year. But what about the other elements?

Where will you live? How will you make money/pay

for a program? If you answer, “My parents will handle

it,” you’re probably not as independent and selfsufficient

as you think. The more responsibility you

can shoulder, the more likely your gap year will

help you grow.

8. Do I feel comfortable living outside of a

structured program environment?

Summer programs have built-in time for learning,

activities, socializing, downtime, and even meals!

Schedules structure your entire day, from where

to go (and when) and what you’ll do. A gap year

isn’t like that.

You (and your parents, if you’ll keep living with them)

decide how you spend your days. Answer honestly:

Does the idea of having unlimited choices and free

time freak you out, or do you feel confident about

how you’ll organize your days?

9. Do I have a support network to help me plan

and navigate a gap year?

While you must make the final decision, ask your

parents for their input, too. Find out about their

expectations and the support they can give (whether

financial, moral, or both).

What does a gap year mean for your social circle?

If your friends go off to college or jobs, possibly far

from home, will you feel “left behind”? How will you

make new friends? Who will you turn to for support

during your emotional journey of self-discovery?

10. How will a gap year impact my college timeline,

scholarships, or applications?

Delaying the start of college disrupts your education

less than you might think, but it can create complications.

For example, if you graduate in June and want

to start college in August/September the following

year, the college application cycle falls in the middle

of your gap year.

Since you apply mid-year, documenting your gap year

activities can be tricky, as you’re still experiencing

them! You could also lose eligibility for scholarships

intended for high school graduates going straight to

college; read the fine print of each scholarship’s rules

to see if gap year applicants qualify.

An alternative plan? Applying to schools during senior

year and then deferring your admission. This strategy

guarantees you a spot in the upcoming class and

gives your gap year a definite endpoint. However, if

you’re taking a gap year to explore your options, don’t

feel pressured to commit before you’re ready.



One day, while scrolling through programs online

with my mom, I found the NYSID Pre- College

program. It caught my attention instantly, and I

realized it was never too late to step out of my

comfort zone. Trying interior design gave me a

chance to express my creativity in new ways and

bring my ideas to life in real spaces.

New York School of Interior Design

AMOR JONES

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

I attended the New York School of Interior Design's

(NYSID) Pre-College program for a second year because

of the welcoming and inspiring environment I experienced

during my first summer. This incredibly inviting

community, combined with hands-on learning and lifelong

friendships I’ve fostered throughout the program,

has allowed me to grow as a person. After completing the

program for the first time, I recognized my true passion

for interior design and saw so much potential in myself.

The NYSID faculty encouraged me to get out of my

comfort zone in many different ways. My projects gave

me the freedom to choose the style and direction of my

floor plans. Returning this year to expand my knowledge

felt like an important step in enhancing my skills while

continuing my exploration of a career in interior design.

The program fit well because I wanted to branch out and

try something new. I’ve always been curious about how

I could use my art skills in different ways. I love music,

but I also wanted to explore other forms of creativity.

A typical program day started with a morning

lecture or presentation, where we’d learn about

the foundations of design — color theory, space

planning, architectural styles, or sustainable design

practices. We collaborated on projects on some

days to identify the style we wanted to incorporate

into our floor plan. Then, during hands-on studio

time, we worked on our individual projects and got

feedback from instructors and peers.

Guest speakers might present to us after lunch, or

we might take field trips to showrooms or design

firms, or continue our project work. In such an

energetic, collaborative environment, students

constantly bounced ideas off each other and pushed

their designs further. Our instructors kept the

course both structured and creative, helping us stay

focused while still thinking outside the box.

The most memorable moment of my program was

the final presentation. After working hard on our

projects for two weeks, I felt incredibly proud to

showcase my creation. For this project, I designed

a hotel floor plan in Brazil, which I chose because

of its vibrant culture and colorful landscapes. I

focused on the coastal city of São Paulo. I incorporated

tropical greens, blues, and yellows and emphasized

natural textures and open spaces to create

a relaxed, beachy vibe.

Throughout the process, my instructor supported

my vision and encouraged me to explore

bold design choices. Presenting my final work

to the program members, faculty, and visitors gave

me a real sense of accomplishment. It showed me

how much I had learned in a short time and how

much I love bringing spaces to life through design.


MIDDLE SCHOOL

SUMMER PROGRAMS

Middle school summers should be filled with adventure, where you explore new interests and build

confidence in a fun, supportive environment. These programs encourage students to try new subjects,

from robotics and theater to marine biology, while gaining teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

You can participate online or in person and discover how exciting learning can be outside the classroom.

ACADEMIC


View Website »


Step into the shoes of global leaders.

Tackle pressing issues, enhance

your speaking and debate skills, gain

confidence, and receive daily personalized

feedback from champion mentors.

Make friends who care about the world.

Experience MUN simulations, speaking

labs, trivia, games, and explore your

dream campus. The MUN Institute’s

electric atmosphere, filled with flags and

positive energy, will bring out the best in

you, inspiring you to debate diplomatically

in our polarized society, try MUN at school,

and change the world! Learn More »

Summer Discovery:

Middle School Enrichment

View Website »

Location(s): United States, UK

Summer Discovery's middle school

programs transcend the traditional

classroom, offering a dynamic learning

experience empowering students to

explore their passions and discover new

talents. Choose courses that spark your

curiosity, from medicine and robotics to

the mysteries of forensic science. Your

summer experience will include immersive

academic courses, daily workshops in arts,

health, and sports, and fun off-campus

activities and excursions. Applications for

Summer 2026 are open. Space is limited

in our most sought after programs.

Apply today! Learn More »

UNCW MarineQuest

Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Wilmington, NC

Learning doesn't take the

summer off, but you won’t find

any textbooks here. UNCW

MarineQuest's Summer Programs

get kids outside to get their hands

dirty and feet wet as they learn

about the wonderful coastal

environment where we live. For

45 years, UNCW MarineQuest

has provided enriching academic

opportunities for the pre-K-12

community. The program invites

students to explore, discover, and

value our marine habitats and

encourages them to develop

into environmentally responsible

adults. Learn More »

Scan the QR code

for more info on

these programs or

visit teenlife.com/

request-summer

CAREER EXPLORATION

& LEADERSHIP

National Student Leadership

Conference (NSLC) Summer

Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Washington, D.C. and

Berkeley, CA

At the National Student Leadership

Conference (NSLC), middle school

students explore future career

and academic possibilities. NSLC

programs encourages students

to explore interactive, handson

activities designed around

the subjects that interest them.

Programs include medicine,

engineering, business, and

government & law. All NSLC

programs incorporate a leadership

core, where students develop the

knowledge, confidence, and practical

skills required to achieve their goals

and become leaders in their school

and community. Learn More »


Middle School Summer Programs


STEM

Boston Leadership Institute:

STEM Summer Programs

View Website »

Location(s): Wellesley, MA

Boston Leadership Institute’s Pre-

High School Programs offer one-week

summer courses for students entering

grades 6-8 that combine fun and

hands-on STEM learning. The programs

cover a range of topics, including a

mini “Med School” and "Chemistry

of Cooking" program, pet medicine,

crime lab investigations, physics,

astronomy, and marine biology. These

daily courses give young learners the

chance to discover science beyond the

classsroom through hands-on learning

in a flexible, engaging setting.

Learn More »

Integem: Summer Camps,

Research & Startup Programs

View Website »


Join the #1 AI & AR program, in-person

and online. Build AI robots/drones,

create 3D AR games/animations,

and earn NVIDIA AI Certificates. No

experience needed. In our Research

Institute, investigate frontier

research in science, engineering, and

humanities with AI & cutting-edge

tech and publish with PhD mentors.

In our online Startup Academy, turn

your passion in tech, design, business,

gaming or sports into an innovative

startup with Silicon Valley mentors.

Integem is a NVIDIA AI partner and

WASC accredited. Join over 200K

students building the future!

Learn More »

TRAVEL & CULTURAL

IMMERSION

Westcoast Connection:

Middle School Programs

View Website »


From action-packed teen tours and

global adventures to middle school

enrichment and community service,

choose from 22 summer departure

dates for students currently in grades

6-8. With 43 years of experience

operating outstanding summer

programs for teens, we take special

care in assigning age-compatible, coed,

and socially comfortable groups.

Choose from exciting destinations like

California, Greece, Italy, France, Costa

Rica and beyond. Your summer of a

lifetime is waiting, and we can’t wait

to share it with you! Learn More »

CREATE. CODE.

DESIGN. SOUND.

Turn your passion into

a portfolio.

Pre-College Summer Programs

at DigiPen Academy

Online | July 6 – 31, 2026

Spend four weeks immersed

in hands-on coursework

that mirrors real college

classes. Mornings focus on

core academic and technical

concepts; afternoons feature

collaborative project labs

where students create real

games and digital projects

with peers and instructors.

CHOOSE YOUR TRACK:

• Art & Animation

• Game Design

• Game Programming

• Music & Sound Design

WE PREPARE TODAY’S CREATORS

FOR TOMORROW’S CAREERS!

@DigiPenAcademy on Instagram

academy.digipen.edu | 425-629-5007

@DigiPenAcademy on YouTube

The first summer, I enrolled in Computer Programming

because it matched my curiosity about

software and game creation. The following summer,

I took the Animation & Design track to learn

more about the visual development process and

improve my art skills and animation techniques.

Taking both programs turned out to be one of my

best decisions. I am currently completing my Mechatronic

Systems Engineering Degree at Simon

Fraser University in British Columbia, Canada.

I am in my final co-op semester at an aerospace

company, and the skills I gained at DigiPen Academy

directly support my daily work, especially in

creating technical animations.

A typical summer day in the program blended

learning, instruction, and hands-on projects. We

spent hours building, problem-solving, and working

with teammates in a focused, fun environment

where it was easy to make friends, because we all

had common interests.

DigiPen Academy

Pre-College Program

LIAM ROBERTS

HOW I

SPENT MY

SUMMER

I attended the DigiPen Academy Pre-College Program

because I was interested in computers, gaming, and robotics.

At the time, I wasn’t fully sure which direction I

wanted to pursue in post-secondary, but I knew I wanted

a program that would give me an edge in my university

applications. When looking for summer opportunities,

DigiPen Academy stood out for its hands-on, projectbased

learning and the chance to experience real collegelevel

material before graduating from high school.

The opportunity to create a game from start to finish

intrigued me, and I wanted to better understand the art

and science behind video game development.

The most memorable moment of the academy

came at the end, when I completed my final

projects. Seeing something I had built, from

concept to finished game, was incredibly rewarding.

That success gave me confidence and a clear

sense of what I could achieve with instruction,

commitment, and creativity.

My biggest piece of advice for teens considering

DigiPen Academy is to just go for it. Early exposure

to university-level concepts made my transition

to post-secondary education much smoother.

I felt far less overwhelmed in my first year of

engineering because I’d already seen many of the

topics at DigiPen.

The collaborative environment also prepares you

well for the team-based learning you’ll experience

in university and in industry. I’m still close friends

with a few of my former lab partners, two of whom

went on to attend DigiPen Institute of Technology

and now work at Amazon Leo and Santa Monica

Studio. DigiPen truly opens doors and helps you

explore your future career possibilities.


SCHOLARSHIPS

for summer programs and camps

he first, best place to check for a scholarship

is the program itself. If you’re thinking about a

pre-college program, for example, the hosting

universities and colleges may offer grants and

scholarships for those who qualify. But that’s

not all!

Many organizations

offer sibling and group

discounts.

Some states earmark

money in their budgets to

subsidize summer

programs and camps.

Check your community

programs like the YMCA or

Boys & Girls Club — or the

local parks and recreation

department — for grants

and scholarships.

Some employers allow you

to allocate part of your

flexible spending account

(FSA) to help offset the

cost of summer programs

for children in grades K-12.

HERE ARE A FEW OTHER ORGANIZATIONS

THAT OFFER SCHOLARSHIP AID.

• American Foreign Service Association High School

Essay Contest

• Garden Club of America

• The Happy Camper Project

• Neubauer Adelante Family Summer Scholars Program

• The Salvation Army

TIPS FOR APPLYING

APPLY EARLY:

Deadlines are often

competitive, so start your search

and application process

well in advance.

BE THOROUGH:

Read all eligibility requirements carefully

and submit all required materials, such

as essays, recommendations, proof of

financial need, and transcripts.

READ THE FINE PRINT:

Some scholarships are flexible and can

be used for different education-related

expenses, including travel (for summer

programs abroad) or supplies.



•

1a1ntegem: Step Into the Future

From Beginner to Advanced

Camp lntegem

(Ages 5-18, In-Person & Online)

• Code Al + 3D AR Games

• Design Al-Powered Drones

• Build Smart Robots

• Launch Near-Space Missions

• Engineer Al Agents

• Create AR Arts & Animation

• Earn NVIDIA AI Certificates

Create Magic. Build Your Portfolio.

lntegem Research Institute

(Ages 13-18, Online)

Research Areas:

• Science

• Engineering

• Humanities & Society

Powered by Al & frontier tech

Mentored by PhDs + full tech team

Publish your findings

Startup Academy

(Ages 13-18, Online)

Turn your passion for:

•Business •Tech •Gaming •Design •Sports

•Social Impact into an innovative startup

With:

Al tools, Engineer Help, and Silicon

Valley Mentors.

Imagine ➔ Prototype ➔ Launch

Even file a patent!

integem.com

Dream it. Create it. Live it

RESOURCES

• American Autism Association

Tips and recommendations for finding a camp appropriate for

children diagnosed with autism.

• Best Credit Cards for Teens

NerdWallet’s recommendations for credit cards to help teens

build credit.

• Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Resources to help parents empower their children.

• The Brainy Moms

Resources for parents of children with special needs, including

helping neurodiverse kids, thrive in various social settings.

• Center for Parent Information & Resources

Resources for parents of children with special needs.

• Choosing a Summer Camp and Preparing Your Child:

AAP Safety Tips - HealthyChild.org

This article offers guidance on choosing a safe and healthy summer

camp and advises parents on how to prepare their child for time away

from home.

• CollegeAdvisor

This article offers advice for 8th- to 10th-graders (and their parents)

on how to plan their summers to enhance their college applications.

• A Data-Driven Approach to Summer Camp -

Parent Data

This article shares the benefits of children attending summer

programs and how parents can choose the best-fit camp for

their children.

• Davidson Institute

This organization serves gifted students aged 18 and younger,

offering resources and guides for them and their parents.

• When Kids Fly Alone

A downloadable PDF of information and a checklist for parents

whose children are flying alone.

• The Gifted Child Society

This educational nonprofit is dedicated to furthering the overall

well-being of gifted children from preschool through high school.

• How Safe is Your Child’s Summer Camp -

The Heartful Parent

This article, a guest post by the Center for Child Counseling’s KidSafe

program, includes key questions to ask when vetting which summer

program to send your child to.

• Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

This organization provides a variety of resources intended to support

LGBTQ+ parents and those serving them. The HRC’s work focuses on

creating welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ families and youth.

• Camp, Social & Recreation Toolkit from Milestones

Autism Resource

This article shares a guide for families seeking to engage neurodiverse

children in summer programs, camps, and activities. It offers a breakdown

of different camp types to help parents determine which may

be a good fit for their children.

• National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC)

NAGC is a leading organization focused on the needs of gifted and

talented children. Its mission is to empower all who support children

with advanced abilities in accessing equitable opportunities that

develop their gifts and talents.

• National Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The National PTA’s special education toolkit resources page provides a

comprehensive list of links and national organizations intended to help

parents of children with disabilities understand their rights and access

necessary support and services.

• National Summer Learning Association (NSLA)

This toolkit includes a collection of resources, guides, and links

designed to help parents support their children’s learning, growth,

and well-being year-round, particularly during the summer months

and in times of disruption to the traditional school year.

• Red Cross Lifeguard Training

The American Red Cross Lifeguarding program is a nationally accepted

training curriculum designed to prepare individuals to prevent, protect,

and respond to aquatic emergencies.

• Summer Camps and Medical Needs: Advice for

Parents - from Learning Essentials

The article provides essential advice for parents of children with

medical needs, food sensitivities, or allergies on how to ensure safety

when attending day or overnight summer programs.

• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

These TSA REAL ID FAQs detail the federal requirements for

state-issued identification cards.

• U.S. Passport & Visa Organization

This webpage has all the information parents need to apply for a

passport for themselves and their children.

• What’s the Best Age for Camp? - Sunshine Parenting

This article offers parents suggestions on the best age to send their children

to camp, depending on their individual needs. The central theme is

that attending an overnight program is a gift of independence that helps

kids develop coping skills necessary for thriving as young adults.

• 5 Tips for Surviving Your Child’s First Stay at

Overnight Camp - Sunshine Parenting

This article offers tips to help parents cope with missing their child

and suggests ways to use the time for self-care, fun activities, and

personal growth.

VISIT OUR BLOG TO SEE THE FULL LIST.


Vancouver, Canada

Study at a top-ranked global university – before

you graduate high school!

Explore your academic interests and stand out

with international experience

Join UBC Future Global Leaders, Canada’s leading pre-college summer

program, at the University of British Columbia. Experience college life

on a stunning campus, take first-year level courses with UBC professors

and instructors, and make friends from around the world at a diverse,

global university.

Subjects include:

• Engineering

• Psychology

• Business & Social

Entrepreneurship

• Global Politics & Law

• Health, Medicine & Life Sciences

• Theatre & Film

• Creative Writing & Journalism

Program details:

• Two-week on-campus sessions in July & August

• For high school students ages 15-18

• No application or visa requirements for U.S. citizens

• Tuition and fees in Canadian dollars

Find Out More: exl.ubc.ca/future

Follow us on Instagram @ubc_fgl

Your future starts here


AD INDEX

ORGANIZATION NAME AD PAGE # LISTING PAGE #

Academic Programs International 35

The Academies by Harvard Student Agencies 42

Acadia Institute of Oceanography 48

AFS-USA 53

Alpengirl Summer Programs 46

Alpha Scholars 65

The American University of Paris 20

American University Pre-College Programs 20, 65

AMP Global Scholar 42

Andover Summer at Phillips Academy 46 20

Arcos Journeys Abroad 53

ArtsBridge 35

Atlantic Acting School 35

Belmont University: Summer Camps 75 20

Bentley University: Pre-College Programs 40

The Blackbird Academy 27 35

Boston Architectural College: Summer Programs 60 21

Boston College Experience 71 21

Boston Leadership Institute 56 48, 72, 87

Boston University: VASI 37

Breakwater Expeditions 46

BridgeUp 74

California College of the Arts - Pre-College Program 37

California State Summer School for the Arts (CSSSA) 37

Camp Be'chol Lashon 43

Camp on Tour 55

Capitol Debate Camps 21

Case Western Reserve Pre-College Online Program 23 72

CESA Languages Abroad 74 44

Champlain Pre-College Summer Programs 21

CIEE (Council on International Education Exchange) 55

CollegeAdvisor.com 97

Colorado College Pre-College Programs 21

Columbia University: Summer Programs for High School Students 54 21, 65

Cornell University: Precollege Studies 21, 65

Crimson Global Academy 66

Dartmouth Precollege Online Summer Program 30 66

Design Tech High School Innovation Certificate Program 70

DigiPen Academy 88 48, 72

Duke University: Pre-College Programs 21

Eckerd Pre-College Summer Programs 23

ECOS Foundation 33 23

EF Language Abroad 45 44

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 8-9 48

www.reachcambridge.com


Emory University Pre-College Program 23

Engineering Summer Academy at Penn 47 50

Envision Experience (NYLF - Medicine) 6 44

The Experiment in International Living 55

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) 42

Freedom Forum 43

Future Physicians America 44

Gaia Changemakers 43

Georgetown University Pre-College Online Program 22, 32 66

Global Leadership Adventures 43

Harvard Medical School Pre-College Online Certificate Program 30 70

Harvard Summer Programs for High School Students 3 23

Hawai'i Preparatory Academy 24

ICL Academy 64 66

Idyllwild Arts 37

If P then Q Camps 37

Illinois Tech: Elevate College Prep Summer Programs 50

IMG Academy 100 47

Integem 91 50, 72, 87

Inward Bound Mindfulness 70 46

Johns Hopkins: Engineering Innovation 50

Juniper Young Writers 37

Kennolyn Huntington Lake Camp 46

King's College London: Summer Programmes 24

LaunchX 40, 69

Lawrence University Odyssey Immersion Program 52 24

LITA 44

Loyola Marymount University: Pre-College Summer Programs 16 24

Maine College of Art & Design: Pre-College Program 37

MasterScholar by KSE Global 26

McGill University Summer Academy 26

Meridian Future Leaders Academy 43

Missouri University of Science and Technology 52

Model UN Institute 28 26, 66, 86

Muhlenberg College Summer Institute 26

Music Academy of the West 37

National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) Inside Back Cover 43, 86

The New School: Parsons Academy 51 38

New York Film Academy 38

New York School of Interior Design 6 38

Northwestern Pre-College Online Summer Program 25 66

Northwestern University Center for Talent Development (CTD) 40 26

Notre Dame Pre-College Online Summer Program 25 66

NYU School of Professional Studies 63 26

Ohio University: College of Fine Arts Summer Programs 38

Outset 44


Oxford Summer Courses (Summer Discovery) Inside Front Cover 26

Oxford University Summer Schools for Teens (Saïd Business School) 26

Parsons Paris Online Courses for High School Students 23 69

Peace Ambassador Leadership Summit (PALS) 43

Penn Arts and Sciences 27

Penn Medicine Summer Program for High School Students 44

Penn State: Bellisario College of Communications Summer Camps 27

Pioneer Academics 48 66

Portage Learning 69 70

Powerhouse Theater Program at Vassar College 39

Program In Algorithmic and Combinatorial Thinking (PACT) 52

Projects Abroad 55

Pyrene Summer Camp 47

Quinnipiac University Pre-College Summer Programs 29 27

Reach Cambridge 95 27

Rice University Precollege Program 22 67

Rice University: Tapia STEM Camps 52

Roger Williams University: Summer Programs 28

Rosetta Institute 52

SCAD Pre-College Summer Programs 14 39

School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) 34 39

The School of The New York Times 28

Science Camps of America 53

Sea Star Explorations 55

SeaTrek BVI 47

Sevenoaks School Summer Programmes 99 28

Seville Abroad 55

Smith Precollege Summer Programs 28

Soccer Camps International 47

SoFlo Tutors 39 74

Sotheby's Summer Institute 29

St. John's College: Summer Academy 41 29

Stanford University Pre-Collegiate Studies 1 29

Stevens Institute of Technology Summer Programs 29

Stony Brook University: High School Summer Programs 38 31

Study Mind 43

Summer Discovery Inside Front Cover, 87 31, 86

Summer Springboard 31

Summer@Cornish 39

Summit STEM Fellowship 72

Susquehanna University: Summer Pre-College Programs 31

Syracuse University: Pre-College Programs 36 31

Teach Me Wall Street 42, 69

Teachers College Columbia University Pre-College Academy 40

Tufts University: Pre-College Programs 49 31

“ An experience that you need to try

because it opens your mind.” Sofia, Italy

Ages 11-16

Summer Programme – Music Programme – English Language Course

1-15 July and 16-30 July 2026

On a beautiful campus in the heart of Kent,

30 minutes from central London.


UBC Future Global Leaders (University of British Columbia) 93 31

UC Berkeley: Architecture & Design Summer Programs 31

UC Davis Summer High School Programs 33

UCLA School of the Arts & Architecture 40

UMass-Amherst: Summer Programs 50 33

UNCW MarineQuest Summer Programs 35 33, 86

United Synagogue Youth 53 55

University of Lynchburg Summer Scholars Institute 44

University of Maryland: Terp Young Scholars (TYS) 33

University of Rochester Precollege Online Program 23 72

University of San Francisco School of Management 42

Vanderbilt University: Programs for Talented Youth 67 34

Vassar Pre-College Program 34

Veritas AI 72

VisionnaireX Future Leaders Foundry 70

Vogue Summer School 34

Wake Forest University: Online Immersion Program 24 67

Wealthy Habits 42

Wentworth Institute of Technology 73 53

Westcoast Connection 55, 87

William & Mary Pre-College Online Program 24 67

William & Mary Pre-College Program in American History 68 34

World Scholars Academy 4 67

Write the World 69

The Young Hotelier's Academy 42

YoungWonks 72

START YOUR FUTURE

CAREER THIS SUMMER!

FILMMAKER

DOCTOR

LAWYER

MUSIC PRODUCER

ENTREPRENEUR

ENGINEER

Experience college life and explore

over 30 careers at nslcleaders.org

Y O U R F U T U R E

ILDING A

NDATION

UCCESS IN

1

2 0 2 3

RTS

2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In Arts 1

EAR

nLife Media Publication | www.teenlife.com

2026

PROGRAMS

2025

WAYS

P YEAR

COVID-19:

HOW IT HAS

CHANGEDTHE

INDUSTRY

PROGRAMS

GH SCHOOL

GAP PROGRAMS

IN 2025

PLUS: GAP

PROGRAMS +

ADVISORS

Find Your Adventure

17 Amazing Opportunities

You Don’t Want To Miss

RS WITH A PURPOSE:

Yourself and the World

VS

AMS

E

G

REDIT

MER

AND

Register For Our

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PLUS:

RESOURCES &

OPPORTUNITIES

You Can't Miss!

PROGRAMS

2024

Summer

HOW SUMMER ACTIVITIES

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PLUS:

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UNIQUE SUMMER

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Online and In Person

Y O U R F U T U R E I N A R T S

NEED MORE RESOURCES

FOR TEENS?

Y O U R F U T U R E I N H E A L T H C A R E

INSIDE:

CHOOSING A CAREER

IN MENTAL HEALTH

PREPPING FOR

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SUMMER PROGRAM

LISTINGS

HELPING YOU EXPLORE

HEALTHCARE

2 0 2 2

2 0 2 4

YOUR FUTURE IN

HEALTHCARE

2022 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In Healthcare 1

A TeenLife Media Publication | www.teenlife.com

2024

Performing

& Visual Arts

INTERVIEW

RESPONSES

ADMISSIONS

LOVES TO HEAR

PLUS:

FASTEST GROWING

ARTS CAREERS AND

THE 75 TOP ARTS

COLLEGES

COLLEGES & PROGRAMS

Y O U R F U T U R E I N S T E M

INSIDE:

WHAT AR/VR MEANS

FOR TECH JOBS

GETTING INVOLVED IN

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

SUMMER PROGRAM

LISTINGS

2 0 2 3

PURSUE YOUR

PASSION FOR

STEM


2023 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In STEM 1


2 0 2 3

INSIDE:

PREPARING FOR A

CAREER AS A PHYSICIAN

INSIDE:

3 ALTERNATIVES TO

MED SCHOOL

SUMMER PROGRAM

AND HEALTHCARE

COLLEGE LISTINGS

SCHOLARSHIPS AND

OTHER USEFUL

RESOURCES

YOUR FUTURE IN

TIPS FOR

PURSUING A

MUSIC CAREER

TOP-PAYING

ARTS CAREERS

SUMMER

PROGRAM AND

ARTS COLLEGE

LISTINGS

USEFUL LINKS

View and download our other guides.

2026

ummer

PROGRAMS


2 0 2 5

INSIDE:

IMPACTFUL AND

UNIQUECAREERS

IN HEALTHCARE


HEALTHCARE

RESOURCES &

SCHOLARSHIPS

HOWTOSTART

YOURCAREERIN

HEALTHCAREDURING

HIGHSCHOOL



INSIDE:

THE 12 FASTEST GROWING

JOBS IN STEM

STEM RESOURCES &

SCHOLARSHIPS

PREPPING HIGH SCHOOL

STUDENTS TO EXCEL

IN STEM

2025-2026

Performing

& Visual Arts

HOW TO CREATE AN

ATTENTION-GETTING

PORTFOLIO

SCHOLARSHIPS

FOR THE ARTS

PLUS:

GUIDE TO

COLLEGES AND PROGRAMS

ARTS COLLEGES AND

PROGRAMS TO CONSIDER

2 0 2 5


INSIDE:

THE 12 FASTEST GROWING

JOBS IN STEM

STEM RESOURCES &

SCHOLARSHIPS

PREPPING HIGH SCHOOL

STUDENTS TO EXCEL

IN STEM

2 0 2 5




HEALTHCARE

GUIDE TO

2 0 2 5

INSIDE:

IMPACTFUL AND

UNIQUE CAREERS

IN HEALTHCARE




HEALTHCARE

RESOURCES &

SCHOLARSHIPS

HOW TO START

YOUR CAREER IN

HEALTHCARE DURING

HIGH SCHOOL


2025-2026

Performing

& Visual Arts

COLLEGES AND PROGRAMS

REGISTER for our

VIRTUAL GAP

INFORMATION

SESSIONS

2 0 2 3

BUILDING A

FOUNDATION

FOR SUCCESS IN

ARTS



PROGRAMS

2024

Summer

HOW TO

CHOOSE

THE RIGHT

SUMMER

PROGRAM

PLUS:

HOW SUMMER

ACTIVITIES

PREPARE YOU

FOR COLLEGE

PLUS:

110

UNIQUE

SUMMER

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Online and

In Person

GAP YEAR

A TEENLIFE MEDIA PUBLICATION

www.teenlife.com

PROGRAMS

GAP YEA

1

2026

Summer

SLEEP AWAY VS

DAY PROGRAMS

THE UPSIDE

OF EARNING

COLLEGE CREDIT

THIS SUMMER

TRADE SCHOOL

VS. COLLEGE:

Which Path is Right

for You?

2

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PATHW

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AFTER HIGH S

PLU

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AD

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Exploring Yourself an

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NURTURING

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2022

PERFORMING &

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WHY ART SCHOOL

ORTH IT


HOW TO CREATE AN

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SCHOLARSHIPS

FOR THE ARTS

PLUS:

www.teenlife.com/guides

ARTS COLLEGES AND

PROGRAMS TO CONSIDER

2022

PERFORMING &

VISUAL ARTS COLLEGES

INTERVIEW

RESPONSES

ADMISSIONS

LOVES TO HEAR

PLUS:

2024 TeenLife Guide to Your Future In Arts

FASTEST GROWING

ARTS CAREERS AND

THE 75 TOP ARTS

COLLEGES

TeenLife 2026 Guide to Summer Programs

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