The enrichment programs at The University of Chicago are specifically designed for pre-college students. The programs offer a transformative experience that will hone their skills and ignite a passion for learning. The students can choose any program and engage in an insightful civic discourse or master the intricacies of quantitative analysis. The programs provide a gateway to the University of Chicago’s vibrant intellectual community.
Here are some of the enrichment programs:
Voltage Scholars: Igniting a Passion for Economics
The Voltage Scholars program provides an exceptional opportunity for a diverse group of high school students with a keen interest in economics to delve into the University of Chicago’s unique approach to the field. This comprehensive program, centered on the text “The Voltage Effect,” introduces students to the fundamental concepts of macroeconomics and microeconomics.
The University of Chicago has long been a pioneer in the field of economics, renowned for its bold and groundbreaking ideas. These innovative concepts are crucial for addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, including poverty, climate change, trade, and healthcare disparities. However, achieving effective solutions requires a diverse range of perspectives, ideas, and experiences.
Currently, economics majors lack the diversity seen in other fields. For instance, women make up only 28.4 percent of economics majors nationwide, and just 14.7 percent of economics majors identify as Black, Hispanic, or Native American. To address this diversity gap, it is essential to broaden the field’s perspective by incorporating a wider range of backgrounds and viewpoints. The Voltage Scholars program aims to engage students from underrepresented groups in the study of economics.
Program Description
The immersive three-day, two-night program is designed for students who are passionate about economics. This accelerated program provides students a unique opportunity to delve into the University of Chicago’s distinctive approach to economics through hands-on lectures and engaging discussions.
As Voltage Scholars, students will have the privilege of interacting with current undergraduate students participating in the Becker Friedman Institute’s Expanding Diversity in Economics program, fostering valuable connections and gaining insights into the college experience.
Beyond exploring the intricacies of economics, the students will also benefit from sessions with University of Chicago admissions counselors, gaining valuable guidance on the intricacies of highly selective college admissions. Additionally, they will participate in workshops designed to prepare for their future career opportunities in the field of economics.
This non-credit program requires active participation in all sessions to receive the program certificate. The program will be hosted on the University of Chicago campus, and program participants will reside in campus housing for the duration of the program. Selected participants will enjoy the program at no cost, and those requiring financial assistance for travel to and from campus are eligible to receive additional funds.
Application Requirements
Applicants should be at least 14 years of age, currently in 10th grade, and enrolled in high school in the United States. U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents who meet this criteria are eligible to apply.
To be considered, applicants must complete an online application, provide an updated high school transcript, and respond to a short essay. A nomination from a teacher or counselor is also recommended and can be completed here.
Tuition & Fees
The program’s costs, including tuition, room, and board, are completely covered. If students require financial assistance to cover roundtrip travel, please complete the financial aid application, which is part of the Summer Session Application.
Empowering the Next Generation of Climate and Energy Leaders
The Young Innovators Climate & Energy Program is a week-long enrichment program designed to inspire and prepare high school students for future careers in climate and energy policy. Through engaging classes, readings, lectures, and collaborative hands-on projects, students will gain a deep understanding of pressing current issues in climate and energy from leading faculty at the University of Chicago.
Immersed in the vibrant city of Chicago, students will explore the diverse opportunities available for academic work, professional development, and personal growth. The program will provide on-campus housing and financial assistance to selected participants.
Application materials include:
- Online application
- Transcript (official or unofficial)
- Supplement & essays
- At least one teacher recommendation
- At least one parent confirmation email received
Applicants will be asked to respond to the following essay questions in the application:
- Why did you choose the particular program/courses for which you have applied? How are they related to your current interests and future plans? Please be as specific as possible, and make sure your response covers each of the courses you selected. (Limit: 500 words)
- “Since its founding, the University has been committed to the idea that a culture of rigorous inquiry requires an environment where diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas inform and stimulate intellectual exchange, challenge, and engagement.” –UChicago Office of the Provost. How does your perspective, experience or background contribute to this culture of inquiry in this program? What do you hope to gain or learn by engaging with peers from all over the U.S. or from different parts of the world? (Limit: 300 words)
Tuition & Fees
The program’s costs, including tuition, room, and board, are completely covered. If students require financial assistance to cover roundtrip travel, please complete the financial aid application, which is part of the Summer Session Application.
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Quantum Quickstart: Unleashing the Potential of Young STEM Leaders
The Quantum Quickstart program invites a diverse group of exceptional Illinois high school students with a passion for STEM to explore the fascinating world of quantum sciences and its profound impact on our world.
Quantum mechanics has revolutionized our understanding of the universe, uncovering a realm of seemingly paradoxical phenomena that underpin the very fabric of reality. Quantum engineering, a rapidly emerging field, holds immense promise to transform our technological landscape and society.
The Quantum Quickstart program, led by faculty from the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, immerses students in the core concepts and applications of quantum engineering. Participants will gain insights into the extraordinary capabilities of quantum systems, including their potential for unbreakable communication, unparalleled computational power, and revolutionary precision measurements.
Chicago is a thriving hub for this cutting-edge field. In 2020, Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Chicago established a groundbreaking 52-mile quantum loop, a significant step towards the development of a quantum internet. Additionally, the Chicago region hosts two of the five National Quantum Centers, fostering a vibrant research community dedicated to unlocking the full potential of quantum technologies.’
This summer, Illinois high school students with a passion for STEM are encouraged to apply to Quantum Quickstart, a week-long program that provides a comprehensive introduction to quantum engineering.
Course Description
In this one-week accelerated program, curious and ambitious high school students will be exposed to the counter-intuitive quantum world via lectures with faculty in the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, theoretical discussions, and tours of world-class lab facilities. Participants will see the inner workings of quantum computers, learn about quantum engineering’s rollout to the consumer market, and even play quantum-adapted board games to understand the concept of entanglement.
In addition to seeing the world through a quantum lens, students will also attend sessions to prepare for future careers in STEM and meet with UChicago admissions counselors to learn about highly selective college admissions. This program is not for credit and participation in all sessions is required to receive the program certificate.
Application Requirements
Applicants should be at least 14 years of age and be a 9th or 10th-grade student enrolled in high school within the state of Illinois. Students of any citizenship who meet this criteria are eligible to apply.
To be considered, applicants must complete an online application, provide an updated high school transcript, and respond to a short essay. A nomination from a teacher or counselor is also recommended and can be completed here.
Tuition & Fees
All costs, inclusive of tuition, room, and board, for this program are completely covered. Students will need to have their own health insurance.
To conclude, participating in any of the enrichment programs gives students an opportunity to immerse themselves in the university’s rich tradition of inquiry and discovery. The programs not only enhance their academic pursuits but also cultivates essential skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey and future endeavors.
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