STEM Accelerator for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Course Description: STEM Accelerator for High Schoolers at Dartmouth

Discover Your Future in STEM: Dartmouth Precollege Program

Unlock the doors to a future in STEM with our transformative two-week precollege program at Dartmouth College. Guided by the esteemed Dr. Ansley Booker of Dartmouth NEXT, this immersive experience invites aspiring young scientists, engineers, and innovators to delve into the vast possibilities within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through engaging seminars, hands-on workshops, and exclusive field trips, students will explore Dartmouth’s state-of-the-art labs, medical centers, sustainability initiatives, and makerspaces. Along the way, they will learn from Dartmouth’s leading faculty, researchers, and alumni who are at the forefront of innovation in fields such as medicine, engineering, data science, and more.

This program is not just about exposure; it’s about crafting a roadmap for success. Participants will gain practical tools for career readiness, including insights into graduate school paths, research opportunities, and professional networking. The experience culminates in a closing symposium where each student presents a personalized “STEM Futures Pathway Plan,” a blueprint for their future inspired by the program. By the end of these two weeks, students will not only discover what’s possible in STEM but also chart their own paths with newfound clarity and confidence.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Comprehensive Exposure: Engage with Dartmouth faculty, researchers, and alumni across a wide range of STEM disciplines.

• Career Readiness: Learn the steps to pursue STEM careers, from higher education pathways to professional development strategies.

• Innovative Learning: Participate in cutting-edge research and innovation in medicine, engineering, sustainability, and data science.

• Personal Growth: Develop networking skills, seek mentorship, and effectively communicate personal goals.

• Vision for the Future: Reflect on personal interests and strengths to envision a unique trajectory within STEM fields.

Instructor:Dr. Ansley Booker

Location

Nestled in the picturesque setting of Dartmouth College, our program offers a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and discovery. Students will have the opportunity to explore Dartmouth’s cutting-edge facilities, including labs, medical centers, and makerspaces, all while enjoying the serene beauty of the campus.

Course Description

Hands-on activities

• Seminar Sessions: Participate in interactive talks led by Dartmouth faculty, alumni, and guest experts on STEM careers, innovations, and emerging fields.

• Hands-On Workshops: Experiment in makerspaces, medical labs, and sustainability centers, engaging directly with tools and techniques used by STEM professionals.

• Field Trips & Site Visits: Go behind the scenes at Dartmouth labs, research centers, and innovation hubs to observe cutting-edge science in action.

Mentorship and skill-building

• Career Pathway Panels: Hear from alumni and professionals who represent diverse trajectories in STEM, followed by Q&A networking opportunities.

• Mentorship Activities: Pair with Dartmouth graduate students or researchers for guided conversations about academic and career journeys.

• Skill-Building Sessions: Learn practical skills in resume building, science communication, and college-level research preparation.

Tangible outcomes

• Reflective Journaling: Capture daily insights and track evolving career interests, forming the foundation for the final project.

• Closing Symposium: Present a personalized “STEM Futures Pathway Plan” to peers and faculty, articulating both inspiration gained and concrete next steps.

Admission Criteria

To thrive in this program, a passion for STEM is essential. Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Recommended GPA of 3.5 or above in the field of study or related field.

• Completed Summer Institute application, including thoughtful responses to short-answer questions.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for future leaders and innovators eager to embark on a successful academic and professional career in STEM. Whether you’re exploring the fundamentals or deciding on a professional track, this course will advance your understanding and help you determine if a career in STEM is right for you.

Benefits

Participants will leave the Dartmouth Summer Scholars program with valuable documentation to enhance their academic portfolio, including:

• Branded Course Completion Certificate: Demonstrating successful completion of the program.

• Letter of Recognition: From Summer Institute, acknowledging your academic achievements.

Embark on a journey of discovery and innovation at Dartmouth, where the future of STEM awaits 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.

***

✔️ 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