Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Course Description: Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Course Description: Unraveling the Mind - Precollege Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience Program

Embark on a transformative two-week journey into the captivating realms of psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Designed for aspiring scholars, this precollege course at Dartmouth offers an immersive experience that delves deep into the workings of the human brain. Through interactive lectures, lab demonstrations, and hands-on activities, students aged 16-18 will explore essential topics such as memory, learning, decision-making, and emotion. Guided by esteemed faculty and graduate mentors, participants will unravel the mysteries of the mind using cutting-edge tools like brain imaging and behavioral experiments.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of core psychology and neuroscience concepts.

• Develop proficiency in scientific research methods, including neuroimaging techniques.

• Enhance analytical skills by interpreting real or simulated data.

• Apply psychological principles to everyday life, improving decision-making and stress management.

• Explore ethical considerations in brain and behavior research.

• Reflect on personal interests and potential career pathways in psychology and neuroscience.

Instructor:Helene Sisti, PhD

Instructor Bio

Helene M. Sisti has been a faculty member of Norwich University, a private military institution in Vermont, since 2019. She teaches a range of courses in the psychological and brain sciences including Perception, Research Methods, Senior Thesis, and Concussions In Sport. Dr. Sisti’s research focuses on brain health. She uses noninvasive neuroimaging techniques to investigate how the brain responds to learning. She was awarded the Board of Fellows Prize for her work on the development of a brain-based diagnostic for concussions. Dr. Sisti is a member of the Society for Neuroscience and the International Society for Motor Control. She is a contributing author to the Encyclopedia of Behavioral Neuroscience, Human Brain Mapping, and Learning & Memory. She is a regular peer reviewer of leading scholarly journals and served as Executive Editor of Motor Control (2022-2023). Dr. Sisti holds a PhD in Psychology with a Concentration in Behavioral Neuroscience from Rutgers University. She completed her Postdoctoral Fellowship in Europe at KU Leuven. Dr. Sisti is also passionate about sports. She is a PSIA-certified Ski Instructor and teaches at the Dartmouth Skiway. She founded RISEN Research In Sport, Education and Neuroscience to promote and protect the brain health of student athletes.

Location

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Dartmouth College, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn in a vibrant academic environment. Students will benefit from access to state-of-the-art neuroscience labs and research centers, providing a behind-the-scenes look at groundbreaking studies.

Course Description

Core Learning Experience

Participants will engage in a robust curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Through a blend of lectures, lab work, and field trips, students will gain insights into the scientific process, from forming research questions to interpreting data.

• Interactive Lectures: Explore topics like memory, attention, perception, and emotion.

• Lab Demonstrations: Observe EEG and fMRI techniques in action through case studies and datasets.

• Memory & Attention Experiments: Participate in experiments such as the Stroop test to experience psychological research firsthand.

• Case Studies: Analyze real-world intersections of brain science with mental health, education, and law.

• Small-Group Data Analysis: Work with neuroscience datasets to draw scientific conclusions.

• Guest Lectures: Learn from Dartmouth researchers specializing in decision-making, child development, and neural disorders.

• Field Trip / Lab Tour: Gain exclusive access to Dartmouth’s cutting-edge labs and research facilities.

Tangible Outcomes

• Capstone Project: Collaborate in groups to design and present a mini research proposal on a chosen topic in psychology or cognitive neuroscience.

• Portfolio-Building Documentation: Receive a branded Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition from Summer Institute, affirming your academic achievements.

Admission Criteria

To ensure a rewarding experience, applicants should possess a keen interest in neuroscience and psychology. Admission requirements include:

• A recommended GPA of 3.5 or above in relevant fields.

• Completion of the Summer Institute application, featuring thoughtful responses to short-answer questions.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for aspiring neuroscientists, social workers, and researchers eager to explore the intersection of psychology and neuroscience. It provides a solid foundation for those considering a professional track in this dynamic field.

Benefits

Beyond academic enrichment, students will leave with a robust portfolio that enhances their college applications and future career prospects. The Dartmouth Summer Scholars program offers a prestigious platform to showcase your dedication and accomplishments in the field of psychology and neuroscience.

Getting There

Dartmouth College is conveniently located, providing easy access for students traveling from various locations. Detailed travel information and assistance will be provided upon acceptance into the program.

Join us this summer for an unparalleled educational experience that will ignite your passion for understanding the human mind and lay the groundwork for future success in science, medicine, or the humanities.

🛂 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.

***

✔️ 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

***

***

💼 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.

***

📘 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.

***

🌎 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.

***

🏠 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.

***

🧳 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.

***

✈ 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.

***

🕒 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

***

📚 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

***

***

🚗 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.

***

🍽 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

***

🛡️ 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

***

📱 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.

***

🚫 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

📍 Dartmouth College – Campus Profile (Hanover, NH)

Dartmouth College, founded in 1769, is a distinguished Ivy League institution known for its deep academic tradition, research excellence, and strong sense of community. Set within the picturesque town of Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth offers an inspiring environment for motivated students seeking challenge, intellectual exploration, and personal growth.

Surrounded by quintessential New England beauty, the campus features a blend of historic and contemporary architecture, including iconic spaces such as the Baker-Berry Library. Hanover’s walkable Main Street adds to the experience with cafés, shops, restaurants, and a welcoming small-town charm. The region also offers abundant outdoor recreation, including trails, parks, and access to the Connecticut River.

Students join a vibrant community of learners, take part in a range of academic academies, and benefit from small class sizes led by experienced instructors. The program encourages both academic achievement and social development, offering a balanced schedule of coursework, activities, and excursions designed to help students grow as scholars and individuals.

***

✨ Program Environment

• Ideal for high-achieving high school students considering selective universities

• Academically rigorous curriculum taught by knowledgeable instructors

• Opportunities to explore multiple subjects across a wide variety of academies

• Supportive environment that encourages independence, collaboration, and intellectual curiosity

• Beautiful, safe, and walkable campus surrounded by natural landscapes

• Perfect blend of academics, recreation, and community engagement

***

🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🏨 Housing

• 🍽 Three meals per day, 7 days per week

• 🎡 Afternoon, evening, and weekend activities and excursions

• 🚐 Transportation for all included activities

• 🏋️ Access to athletic and recreation facilities

• 🎓 College admissions presentation

• 🛌 Linens (two full sets including sheets, blanket, pillow, and towels)

• 🧺 Laundry (detergent/softener not provided)

• 🛡 Full campus safety and supervision

Note: Some specialized courses may require additional academic fees.

***

🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Airfare and airport transfers

• 🍽 Meals eaten off campus

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🏥 Medical expenses

• 🎟 Supplemental academic fees (if applicable)

A standard international program fee applies for international students.

Closest airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

***

🎡 Top Activities in Hanover, New Hampshire

• 🖼 Hood Museum of Art

• 🎮 Dave & Buster’s

• ⚾ Fisher Cats Minor League Baseball Game

• 🛍 Shopping at the Mall of New Hampshire

• 🎢 Six Flags New England

***

🎉 Top Campus Activities

• 🎧 Silent Disco and Live Band Karaoke

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

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

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