University of Michigan Summer Experience for High School Students

Course Description: University of Michigan Summer Experience for High School Students

Experience College Life in Ann Arbor

Spend your summer at the University of Michigan, one of the most respected universities in the United States and a leading member of the Big Ten academic community. Located in the vibrant city of Ann Arbor, this program offers students the opportunity to experience university life while exploring new academic interests and developing valuable skills for the future.

Ann Arbor combines the energy of a major university town with the charm of a welcoming and walkable community. Surrounded by scenic parks, rivers, and nature trails, students can enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking along the Huron River, hiking through the beautiful Nichols Arboretum, or relaxing in the city’s many green spaces. During the summer months the city comes alive with cultural festivals, live music, art events, and vibrant student life.

With its world-class academic facilities, historic traditions, and exciting campus atmosphere, the University of Michigan provides an inspiring setting for students who want to experience a preview of college life while building new friendships from around the world.

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Academic Programme �*

The academic component of the program is designed to give students a college-style learning experience while allowing them to explore subjects that match their interests and future goals.

Classes are taught in small seminar-style groups, encouraging discussion, collaboration, and active participation. Courses are delivered by experienced instructors including university faculty members, graduate students, educators, and professionals from the Ann Arbor area.

Students are assessed on a satisfactory / unsatisfactory basis, allowing them to focus on learning, exploration, and intellectual growth without the pressure of traditional grading. At the end of the program, students receive a Certificate of Achievement recognising their successful completion of the course.

Classes run Monday to Friday, offering a balanced schedule of academic learning, social activities, and cultural experiences.

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Elective Courses

Students can customise their academic experience by selecting two elective courses, each running in separate morning sessions.

Session 1: 9:30 – 11:00

Session 2: 11:15 – 12:45

Available electives may include:

• Advertising & Marketing

• Journalism & Mass Communications

• Social Media Management

• Introduction to Psychology

• College Admissions & Survival Skills

• Mock Trial: Order in the Court

• World of Current Politics

• Financial Markets

• Community Service

• Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)

• Entrepreneurship: Create Your Own Business

• Sports Management

• Business Innovators and Technology Startups

• Global Leadership

• Debate & Public Speaking

• Careers in Medicine

• Health & Wellness

Students may also choose to take one extended elective course running from 9:30 – 12:45, such as:

• Outdoor Adventures

• ACT Preparation

• SAT Preparation

Courses are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early enrollment helps ensure availability of preferred electives.

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Accommodation in Ann Arbor �*

Students stay in comfortable university residence halls on campus, offering a safe and welcoming living environment that reflects the experience of university life.

Accommodation includes:

• Modern student bedrooms

• Wi-Fi internet access

• Air conditioning

• Linen service

• Shared lounges and study areas

• On-site staff and front desk support

Roommates are matched based on age and interests, helping students build friendships and enjoy a positive residential community.

Students also have access to state-of-the-art fitness facilities, including workout spaces, recreational areas, and sports courts.

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Meals �*

Students enjoy meals in the university’s on-campus dining facilities, which offer a wide range of freshly prepared options.

Meals typically include:

• Hot entrees and international dishes

• Fresh vegetables and salads

• Fruit and healthy snacks

• Desserts and pastries

• Beverage stations

The program includes:

• Three meals per day Monday to Friday

• Brunch and dinner on weekends

Occasionally, students may enjoy meals at local restaurants in Ann Arbor as part of organised outings.

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Activities & Life in Ann Arbor �*

Outside the classroom, students explore the vibrant culture and attractions of Ann Arbor.

Activities may include:

• Shopping along Main Street and State Street

• Visiting cafés and restaurants including the famous Zingerman’s Delicatessen

• Kayaking or paddleboarding on the Huron River

• Walking through the scenic Nichols Arboretum

• Visiting the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

• Exploring the Ann Arbor Art Fair

• Relaxing in parks and outdoor green spaces

Students also enjoy a variety of evening social activities such as:

• Karaoke nights

• Bowling and laser tag

• Mini golf and escape rooms

• Outdoor sports and games

• Campfires and group events

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Recreation & Fitness 🏃‍♂️

Students have access to the university’s athletic and recreational facilities, including:

• Fitness centres and weight rooms

• Running tracks

• Basketball courts

• Outdoor playing fields

• Tennis and volleyball courts

The surrounding campus environment also offers scenic running, cycling, and walking paths.

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Weekend Excursions �*

Weekend trips give students the opportunity to explore universities, attractions, and nearby cities.

Michigan State University

Students visit another major Big Ten university and explore its scenic campus, historic landmarks, and vibrant student atmosphere.

Frankenmuth

A day trip to Frankenmuth, a Bavarian-style town known as “Little Bavaria,” where students enjoy shopping, sightseeing, and a relaxing river cruise.

Big Ten College Tour

Students experience additional university campuses, including:

Indiana University

Students spend time exploring campus life at one of the Big Ten’s most well-known universities.

Ohio State University

Students tour the campus and learn about the traditions and culture of this major American university.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point offers thrilling rides and attractions for students to enjoy during a full day of excitement.

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Safety & Supervision �*

Student wellbeing and safety are a top priority throughout the programme.

Key safety measures include:

• Low 10:1 student-to-staff supervision ratio

• Residential staff living in student accommodation

• Staff accompanying students on all activities and excursions

• Private transportation for organised trips

• Secure university campus environment

Ann Arbor is widely known as a safe and welcoming college town, providing an ideal environment for international students.

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Travel Information ✈️

Students travelling by air typically arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW).

At designated arrival times:

• Staff meet students at the airport

• Students are escorted to organised transportation

• Transfers take students directly to the University of Michigan campus

Families may also choose to drive students directly to campus if preferred.

Please note that airport transfers and transportation costs are not included in the program tuition.

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What’s Included ✔

Program tuition includes:

• On-campus accommodation

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday–Friday

• Weekend brunch and dinner

• Two elective courses

• Academic instruction and materials

• Cultural activities and excursions

• Evening social programmes

• Access to campus recreational facilities

Not included:

• Weekend lunches

• Personal spending money

• Laundry services

• Airport transfers and travel costs

• Travel insurance (recommended)