Positive Psychology and Mental Wellness for High Schoolers at University of Texas at Austin

Course Description: Positive Psychology and Mental Wellness for High Schoolers at University of Texas at Austin

Unlocking Human Potential: A Summer Course in Positive Developmental Psychology

Embark on a transformative journey this summer with our two-week course in Positive Developmental Psychology. Designed for aspiring psychology professionals and curious minds, this program delves into the scientific study of what enables individuals to flourish at every stage of life. Through engaging readings, dynamic discussions, and interactive projects, students will explore the core elements of motivation, resilience, empathy, and wellbeing. This course not only provides a deep dive into the science of human potential but also equips students with practical strategies to enhance mental health and foster positive communities.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Gain insights into the science of flourishing and personal growth.

• Develop practical skills to improve mental health and community wellbeing.

• Earn a Mental Health First Aid Certification, enhancing your ability to support others.

• Build a strong foundation for a potential career in psychology.

Location

Situated in the vibrant academic environment of UT Austin, this program offers students a taste of university life. The campus provides an inspiring backdrop for learning, with state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive community that encourages exploration and discovery.

Course Description

Positive Developmental Psychology:

• Morning Sessions: Dive into the principles of positive psychology with expert-led readings and discussions. Examine how positive experiences shape our emotions, relationships, and personal growth.

• Afternoon Workshops: Engage in interactive projects that apply positive psychology research to real-world scenarios. Learn how to utilize these principles to enhance personal wellbeing and support others.

Certification Opportunity:

• Mental Health First Aid: As part of the course, students will earn their Mental Health First Aid Certification. This valuable credential equips participants with the skills needed to recognize and respond to mental health challenges in others. Please note a supplemental course fee of $95 applies.

Admission Criteria

To join this enriching experience, students should have a keen interest in psychology. Admission requires the completion of a Summer Institute application.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for aspiring psychology professionals eager to explore the fundamentals of the field. It offers a unique opportunity to advance your understanding and assess your interest in pursuing a professional track in psychology.

Benefits

Upon completion of this course, students will receive:

• A Course Completion Certificate, showcasing your successful participation in the Summer Institute UT Austin program.

• A Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute, acknowledging your academic achievements and dedication.

Getting There

Located in the heart of Austin, UT Austin is easily accessible, with convenient transportation options available for students arriving from out of town.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and academic growth this summer. Unlock the science of human potential and gain the skills to make a positive impact on your life and the lives of those around you.

🛂 Visa Requirements for International Students

🌎 Students NOT in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your home country is not one of the 40 countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, you will need a B-2 Visitor Visa to attend the program.

The B-2 visa is for tourism and short-term study (under 16–18 hours of classes per week).

After enrollment, you will receive a Letter of Introduction to help support your visa application.

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✔️ Students IN the U.S. Visa Waiver Program

If your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list, you do not need a visa.

However, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before entering the U.S.

Apply here: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

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💼 What the International Program Fee Covers

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 International medical/health insurance while abroad

• 📱 Help securing a local phone number or SIM card if needed

🌍 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 includes:

• 📄 Visa support and pre-arrival communication

• 🚌 Transportation to and from campus

• 🕑 24/7 arrival and departure assistance

• 🏥 Medical/health insurance for international students

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

Note: This fee is mandatory and non-refundable, even if the student does not use all services.

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📘 Academic Reports & College Credit

📝 Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, students receive:

• Detailed course performance summaries

• Instructor feedback

• Recommendations for continued growth

Reports can be mailed to a student’s school upon written parent request.

🎓 College Credit Programs

Students enrolled in credit-bearing classes receive:

• A grade report

• Instructions for requesting a university transcript

Acceptance of credits depends on the receiving university’s policies.

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🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a diverse and global student population each summer:

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

• 🌍 Representing 50–60 countries

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning experience.

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🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to assist with roommate assignments.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, though campus staff make every effort

Cultural diversity is encouraged, and many roommates come from different countries.

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🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack essentials for at least one week.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

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

• Debit card recommended for ATM withdrawals

• Credit card for emergencies

• Avoid carrying 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

Shuttle transportation (additional fee) is available to/from designated airports.

Details are included in the pre-summer transportation form.

Students must arrive/depart within scheduled shuttle windows to use this service.

• 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)

A structured, activity-filled day may look like:

• 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 • beaches • museums • movies • comedy shows • concerts • local events

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📚 Academic Experience (Enrichment & College Prep)

Programs emphasize:

• Small, interactive classes

• Supportive, enthusiastic instructors

• Hands-on learning and real-world experiences

• Field trips connected to course themes

• A wide choice of enrichment or academic courses

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🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students follow the regular campus schedule to align with meals and activities.

Standard Schedule (Monday–Friday):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

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🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Special meals and dietary accommodations are available.

Requirements:

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

Residential & Standard Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean of dietary restrictions.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations include:

• Allergy-friendly meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

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🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

Student safety is the top priority.

Safety Measures:

• Staff and counselors live on student floors

• 24/7 supervision

• Key-card residence hall access

• Daily check-ins and room checks

• Visitors must check in at the program office

• Students may move only in small groups

• Students may never leave campus alone

• Older students (14–18) may have limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

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📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus teams monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Any conditions that affect student safety

If needed, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust or reroute activities

• Avoid specific areas

Students receive:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency push alerts

A dedicated Campus Emergency Line connects students to on-site directors.

International students receive support obtaining a local SIM card for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within the first 24 hours covering emergency procedures.

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🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To maintain a safe, positive environment:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests

• All off-campus trips are fully chaperoned

• Security may be increased with campus police or external teams if needed

• Staff monitor all on- and off-campus locations and adjust plans immediately if necessary

📍 University of Texas at Austin – Campus Profile (Austin, TX)

The University of Texas at Austin is a world-class institution known for its strong academic tradition, innovative spirit, and vibrant cultural environment. With exceptional programs in the arts, business, engineering, medicine, and STEM, the campus offers an inspiring setting for students eager to challenge themselves academically and experience the energy of Austin.

Students learn from university-approved instructors and enjoy access to remarkable campus facilities across UT Austin’s expansive 431-acre grounds. The school’s commitment to excellence, paired with Austin’s dynamic local scene, creates a summer experience that blends rigorous academics with unforgettable activities.

Located in the heart of one of America's fastest-growing and most creative cities, UT Austin gives students opportunities to explore live music, famous food spots, outdoor adventures, festivals, cultural districts, and more — all while building lifelong friendships and developing future-ready skills.

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✨ Program Environment

• Designed for students interested in medicine, engineering, neuroscience, psychology, business, fashion, music business, and sports management

• Courses and academies taught by university-selected instructors

• Hands-on, project-based academic structure with real-world relevance

• Perfect for ambitious, curious students who thrive in a lively campus community

• Access to outstanding facilities including pools, fitness centers, recreation courts, golf simulators, and climbing walls

• Located within walking or short travel distance to major attractions, restaurants, arts districts, and outdoor spaces

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🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing (residential programs)

• 🍽 Two meals per day, 7 days a week (varies by program)

• 🎡 Daily afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to UT Austin’s athletic and recreation facilities

• 🎓 College admissions presentation

• 🛌 Blanket, sheets, pillow

• 🧺 Laundry

• 🛡 Full on-campus safety and supervision

• 📱 SIM card for international students (data plan not included)

Note: Some specialized courses or academies may require additional academic fees.

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🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🧴 Toiletries

• 🏥 Medical expenses

• Supplemental course fee of $95 for a teen Mental Health First Aider training and certification.

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).

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🎡 Top Activities in Austin, Texas

• 🌳 Zilker Park, Barton Springs

• 🛶 Glowing Stand-Up Paddle Tour on Lake Travis

• 🎢 Six Flags Fiesta, Schlitterbahn Waterpark

• 🎮 Dave & Buster’s and Playland Skate Center

• 🛍 Shopping at South Congress (SoCo) & The Domain

• ⚽ Austin FC soccer or Round Rock baseball games

• 🐾 Austin Farm Sanctuary

• 🧪 Texas Science & Natural History Museum, Museum of Illusions, Wonderspaces

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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

• 🏊 Gregory Gym pool party

• 🖼 Visit to the Blanton Museum of Art

• 🎮 Alienware Longhorn Esports Arena

• 🎨 Ugly Art Contest

• 💆 Spa Night

• ❓ Kahoot Trivia, Bingo Bonanza, Guess the Karaoke Song

• 🧁 Cupcake Decorating

• 📸 DIY Photo Booth

• 🏓 Ping Pong Tournament