Persuasive Essay Writing for High Schoolers at University of Michigan

Course Description: Persuasive Essay Writing for High Schoolers at University of Michigan

Mastering Persuasion: A Summer Enrichment Experience at the University of Michigan

Unlock the power of words and transform your passion for writing into a tool for inspiration and change. This two-week summer enrichment course at the prestigious University of Michigan is designed for high school students eager to craft persuasive essays that not only inform but also motivate and captivate. Through a blend of creativity, structure, and rhetorical strategy, students will explore the art of persuasion, storytelling, and audience engagement.

In a supportive and interactive environment, participants will delve into the principles of persuasive communication, analyzing famous examples and engaging in dynamic workshops. Group discussions, peer reviews, and live presentations will provide ample opportunities to practice and refine these techniques, boosting both writing and speaking confidence. With a focus on authentic voice, clarity, and stylistic impact, students will learn to connect meaningfully with their audience.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Develop critical skills in persuasive writing and communication.

• Gain confidence in public speaking through live presentations.

• Experience a university-level course with a focus on creativity and structure.

• Build a portfolio with documentation of summer achievements.

• Prepare for a future in academic writing, leadership, and real-world presentations.

Location

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the University of Michigan, this course offers high school students a taste of collegiate life. The campus provides a stimulating environment, encouraging students to immerse themselves in a community of like-minded peers and dedicated instructors.

Course Description

Mastering Persuasion Program

Over two weeks, students will:

• Learn the art of crafting persuasive essays that inspire and inform.

• Explore storytelling and audience engagement through interactive workshops.

• Analyze famous examples of persuasive communication.

• Participate in group discussions, peer reviews, and live presentations.

• Focus on developing an authentic voice, clarity of argument, and stylistic impact.

Admission Criteria

To embark on this enriching journey, students should have a keen interest in writing and communication. A completed Summer Institute Application is required for admission.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for aspiring writers, politicians, and public speakers looking to lay the foundation for a successful career. Whether you're considering a future in communications or simply wish to enhance your writing skills, this course offers invaluable insights and preparation.

Benefits

Upon completion, students will receive:

• A Course Completion Certificate, showcasing their successful participation in the Summer Institute at the University of Michigan.

• A Letter of Recognition, acknowledging their academic achievement in this course.

Getting There

Details on accommodation, activities, and transfer logistics will be provided upon acceptance into the program, ensuring a seamless and enriching summer experience.

Join us this summer and take the first step towards mastering the art of persuasion. Transform your writing into a powerful tool for change and make your voice heard.

*� International Fees & Support

International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States will be charged an International Registration Fee when attending a U.S.-based program.

This fee covers:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communications

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

• 📱 Support with obtaining a U.S. SIM card or phone plan

Note: These fees are mandatory and non-refundable, even if a student does not require all services.

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*� Academic Reports & College Credit

Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive a detailed performance report from each course, including instructor feedback and recommendations for continued growth. Reports can be mailed to a school upon written request from a parent.

College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing courses receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the policies of the receiving university, though most institutions accept them.

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*� International Student Community

Programs welcome a highly diverse global community. Typically:

• ~30% of students come from outside the U.S.

• Representing 50–60 countries each year

This creates a rich cultural environment and an exciting global learning experience.

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*� Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to help match them with suitable roommates based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Cannot be guaranteed, though campus staff do their best to honor them

• Cultural diversity is encouraged, so many roommates are paired from different countries

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*� What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least a week. Recommended items include:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries and laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week (snacks, souvenirs, lunches)

• Debit card recommended for ATMs

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid large amounts of cash

Note: Some campuses provide bedding. A campus-specific packing list will be available after enrollment.

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✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

Airport Shuttles

Reliable shuttle transportation is available to/from designated airports near each campus (additional fee). Details will be provided in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled time windows to use the shuttle.

For international students, the international registration fee is $379 (residential) OR $239 (commuter) – this fee covers a medical policy for the student and their airport transfers.

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*� A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

Here is a sample look at a well-structured, activity-filled campus day:

8:00 AM – Wake Up �* 8:30 AM – Breakfast �* 9:30–11:30 AM – Morning Course / Academy �* 11:45 AM – Lunch �* 1:00–3:00 PM – Afternoon Course / Academy �* 3:30 PM – Activities, Social Time, or Study Hall �* 6:00 PM – Dinner �* 8:00 PM – Evening/Primetime Activities �* 10:30 PM – Return to Residence Halls �* 11:30 PM – On Floors �* 12:00 AM – In Rooms / Lights Out �*

Activities may include shopping, sports, museums, beaches, movies, comedy shows, concerts, and live events.

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*� Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Students choose from a wide range of enrichment or credit-bearing classes. Programs emphasize:

• Small interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on and experience-based learning

• Field trips connected to course themes

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*� Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students must follow campus schedules closely due to coordinated meals and activities. Times may vary by campus.

Standard Day Schedule (Monday–Friday)

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

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*� Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Parents must complete a dietary information form during the pre-arrival process.

Residential & Standard Programs

Parents should notify the Residential Life Dean about any dietary restrictions so the team can coordinate with campus dining services.

Day Programs (Elementary & Younger Students)

Parents should also inform the Program Director on-site to ensure counselors and staff are aware of the student’s needs.

Accommodations may include:

• Allergy-sensitive meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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*�️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Your child’s safety is the highest priority. Every campus operates with trained staff, secure residential facilities, and university-level protocols to ensure a safe, structured environment.

• Staff members and residential counselors live on the same floors as students and provide 24/7 supervision.

• Residence halls typically use key-card access, and daily check-ins and room checks help ensure student safety.

• Visitors must check in at the program office.

• Students may move around campus only in small groups.

• Students are never permitted to go off campus alone. Older students (14–18) may receive limited group movement privileges at staff discretion.

Students have 24/7 access to medical care at every campus through on-site teams and local medical partners.

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*� Emergency Communication & Response

Campus leadership works closely with university security to monitor all campus conditions, including weather, closures, and local events.

If needed, the team may:

• Move classes

• Adjust activities

• Reroute off-campus trips

• Avoid certain campus areas

Students receive important updates through a mobile communication platform, including:

• Daily reminders

• Safety messages

• Push notifications during emergencies

A dedicated Campus Emergency Phone Number connects students directly to on-site directors. International students receive support securing a local SIM card to ensure reliable communication.

All students also participate in a mandatory orientation in the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures and safety expectations.

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*� Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe and positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests or demonstrations while enrolled.

• All off-campus program-sponsored trips are fully chaperoned.

• Programs may increase security in partnership with campus police or external teams if needed.

• The team monitors on- and off-campus locations daily and will make immediate changes if anything affects student safety.

📍 University of Michigan – Campus Profile (Ann Arbor, MI)

The University of Michigan offers a vibrant academic environment rooted in innovation, research excellence, and a spirited campus culture. Students learn on one of the most iconic college campuses in the United States, surrounded by state-of-the-art facilities, inspiring faculty, and a welcoming student community.

Ann Arbor is known for its lively downtown, beautiful parks, diverse food scene, arts culture, and charming university-town atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting for students to explore new interests while enjoying a safe, active, and energetic environment.

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✨ Program Environment

• Wide selection of courses in sports management, medicine, psychology, entrepreneurship, engineering, and STEM

• Hands-on, project-based learning environments designed to challenge and inspire

• Courses taught by knowledgeable instructors and industry practitioners

• Flexible weekly structure: students can begin at the start of any week and mix multiple courses into a 2–3 week customized academic experience

• Suitable for both residential and commuting students

• Supportive community environment that encourages both academic growth and personal development

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 2–3 meals per day, 7 days per week (varies by program type)

• 🎡 Daily and weekend activities, excursions, and enrichment events

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to athletic and recreation facilities

• 🎓 College admissions presentation

• 🛌 Blanket and pillow

• 🛡 On-campus safety and supervision

Note: Certain academies and specialized courses may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 🧼 Laundry

• 🛏 Linens

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Detroit Metro Airport (DTW).

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🎡 Top Activities in Ann Arbor, Michigan

• 🎢 Thrill rides at Cedar Point amusement park

• 🥪 Visit the legendary Zingerman’s Deli

• 🛶 Kayaking on the Huron River

• 🕹 Challenge friends at Pinball Pete’s Arcade

• ⚾ Detroit Tigers baseball game and a visit to the Detroit Zoo

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🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

• 🎭 Variety performances featuring comedians, hypnotists, mentalists, and magicians

• 🎨 Clubs: arts, baking, sports leagues, tournaments, game nights, and more

• 🍔 End-of-summer BBQ with lawn games and music