Superhero Storytelling & Creative Engineering for Gifted Elementary Schoolers at Bryn Mawr College

Course Description: Superhero Storytelling & Creative Engineering for Gifted Elementary Schoolers at Bryn Mawr College

Unleash the power of storytelling: A journey into creative engineering

In a world where stories captivate hearts and minds, the art of storytelling stands as a timeless craft. Our exclusive summer course invites young visionaries to delve into this enchanting realm, where they will uncover the secrets of storytelling and the engineering of classic archetypes. By blending creativity with technical skills, students will craft their own narratives and bring them to life in a 3D set, showcasing not only their storytelling prowess but also their engineering ingenuity.

Why It is a Great Choice

• Ignite a passion for storytelling and creative engineering in young learners.

• Foster critical thinking and creativity through hands-on 3D modeling.

• Encourage the development of original story ideas using global archetypes.

• Provide a university-level course experience with portfolio-building opportunities.

• Recognize academic achievements with a Course Completion Certificate and a Letter of Recognition.

Location

Nestled in a nurturing environment, our summer course offers a vibrant setting that fosters creativity and learning. Students will thrive in a space designed to inspire, with access to cutting-edge technology and resources that support their journey into the world of storytelling and engineering.

Course Description

The art of storytelling: A journey into creative engineering

This gifted course is designed to capture the imagination of young storytellers and engineers. Students will explore the foundational elements of storytelling, focusing on the role of archetypes in classic tales. With the ability to choose their own settings and themes, they will develop unique plots, characters, and conflicts. The course culminates in the creation of a 3D set, where students will convey their original tales and demonstrate the engineering principles behind their models.

Learning Outcomes:

• Grasp the significance of archetypes in storytelling.

• Generate and refine original story concepts.

• Acquire skills in 3D modeling and engineering.

• Enhance creativity and critical thinking abilities.

• Integrate design principles with storytelling techniques.

Note: This course can be combined with the Young Scientists & Coding Workshop for a comprehensive STEAM experience.

Admission Criteria

This course is part of the gifted program. Interested participants should view the eligibility requirements on our FAQ page and complete the program application to secure their place.

Who Should Attend

Aspiring storytellers and budding engineers, this course is your gateway to a promising academic and professional future. Gain a solid foundation in storytelling and engineering, and explore whether a career in these fields aligns with your aspirations.

Benefits

Upon completing the course, students will receive a Course Completion Certificate, acknowledging their successful participation in the summer program Bryn Mawr program. Additionally, a Letter of Recognition will highlight their academic achievements, offering a valuable addition to their portfolio.

Embark on this creative journey and let your child's imagination soar as they master the art of storytelling and engineering. This summer, give them the gift of discovery and the tools to shape their future.# 🌍 International Fees & Support

💵 International Registration Fee (U.S. Programs)

Students whose primary residence is outside the United States are required to pay an International Registration Fee when attending U.S.-based programs.

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

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

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

📘 Academic Reports

Student Performance Reports

After the program ends, each student receives:

• Instructor feedback

• Evaluation of performance

• Recommendations for future academic growth

Reports can be mailed directly to a school upon written parent request.

🌎 International Student Community

Programs welcome a globally diverse group of students each year:

• Approximately 30% of participants are international

• Representing 50–60 countries annually

This creates a vibrant, multicultural learning environment.

🏠 Housing & Roommate Matching

Students complete a personal profile in the spring to help match them with compatible roommates.

Matching is based on:

• Interests

• Personality

• Sleeping habits

• Age group

Roommate Requests:

• Must be mutual

• Must be same age group and gender

• Not guaranteed, but staff will do their best to honor requests

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

🧳 What to Bring

Students should pack for at least a week of clothing and daily life needs.

Recommended:

• Clothing for warm and cool weather

• Basic school supplies

• Personal toiletries

• Laundry supplies

Spending Money:

• $100–$150 per week for snacks, lunches, and 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 is available after enrollment.

✈ Travel & Airport Transportation

Programs do not arrange flights.

Airport Shuttle Services:

Reliable shuttle transportation is available to/from designated airports near each campus (additional fee). Students must arrive and depart during scheduled windows to use these shuttles.

Details are provided in the campus-specific pre-summer transportation form.

🕒 A Typical Day on Campus (Residential Programs)

A structured and balanced schedule helps students learn, explore, and have fun:

• 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 – Lights Out 😴

Activities may include:

Shopping • Sports • Beaches • Movies • Museums • Comedy shows • Concerts • Local events

🌟 Gifted Program Structure

Gifted programs offer a more advanced academic framework including:

• Collaborative group investigations

• Independent research

• Experiments and project-based learning

• Creative and critical thinking challenges

• Performance tasks and presentations

Instructors adjust timing, pacing, and content to match age level and instructional needs.

🚗 Day Students (Non-Residential)

Day students must closely follow the campus schedule due to supervised meals and activities.

Standard Weekday Schedule (Mon–Fri):

• Drop-Off: 8:30 AM

• Pick-Up: 6:00 PM

Times may vary by campus.

🍽 Special Dietary Needs

Programs can provide special meals and accommodate dietary restrictions.

Requirements:

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

Residential Programs:

Notify the Residential Life Dean about dietary needs.

Day Programs (Younger Students):

Parents should inform the Program Director on-site.

Common accommodations:

• Allergy-sensitive meals

• Vegetarian/vegan options

• Gluten-free meals

• Religious dietary needs

🛡️ Campus Safety & Supervision

The safety of all students is the program’s top priority.

Safety Measures Include:

• Staff and residential counselors living 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 only move in small groups, never alone

• Older students may receive limited group movement privileges

• 24/7 access to medical care

📱 Emergency Communication & Response

Campus leadership works closely with university security to monitor:

• Weather

• Local events

• Road closures

• Unexpected conditions

If necessary, programs may:

• Move classes

• Adjust activities

• Change routes

• Avoid certain areas

Students receive updates through:

• Daily notifications

• Safety messages

• Emergency alerts via mobile platform

A dedicated Campus Emergency Phone Line connects students directly to on-site directors. International students receive help obtaining local SIM cards for reliable communication.

All students attend a mandatory orientation within 24 hours of arrival covering safety procedures and expectations.

🚫 Movement Policies & Program Rules

To ensure safety and maintain a positive experience:

• Students and staff may not participate in protests or demonstrations

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

• Security may be increased in partnership with campus police if needed

• Staff monitor on- and off-campus activity daily and will make immediate adjustments

🌟 Gifted Program Eligibility & Requirements

Students applying to Gifted Programs must demonstrate eligibility by submitting one of the following during the application process:

📄 1. Standardized Test Scores

Students may qualify by providing nationally normed scores showing:

• 95th percentile or above in intellectual ability

• 95th percentile or above in academic achievement

• 95th percentile or above in creativity Scores must be from within the last 5 school years.

🎓 2. Participation in a Gifted Program

Eligibility can also be demonstrated with documentation from within the last 5 years showing:

• Acceptance into a gifted education program or gifted school

• Participation in a recognized talent search

• Enrollment in an advanced summer enrichment program designed for gifted learners

📝 3. Educator Recommendation

Students may submit:

• A recommendation from one core subject teacher

• English Language Arts

• Mathematics

• Science

• Social Studies

The recommendation should confirm the student’s readiness for advanced academic work.

💻 Technology Requirements for Gifted Courses

Gifted Programs utilize digital platforms for coursework, assignments, and instructor feedback.

Required Device

• A laptop or tablet with internet access is mandatory.

Why a Device Is Required

• Courses use Canvas, an online learning platform

• Students access lessons, resources, and assignments digitally

• Instructors provide personalized feedback through Canvas

• Digital tools support research, creativity, and collaborative learning

• A personal device ensures full engagement with all aspects of the curriculum

📍 Bryn Mawr College – Campus Profile

Bryn Mawr College offers a beautiful, historic, and intellectually vibrant setting ideal for young learners. Known for its enchanting Gothic architecture and peaceful green spaces, the campus creates a warm, inspiring environment where gifted and talented students can thrive academically and socially.

Located just outside Philadelphia, the campus provides easy access to cultural sites, museums, parks, and a welcoming community atmosphere — making it an ideal environment for exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning.

✨ Program Environment

• Designed for gifted, talented, and advanced students in Grades 1–8

• Picturesque campus with architecture reminiscent of classic academic settings

• Nurturing environment that supports curiosity, creativity, and inquiry

• Safe, walkable campus with indoor and outdoor learning and recreation spaces

• Perfect setting for STEAM+, innovation, and multidisciplinary enrichment

🎒 Included in Tuition

• 📘 Academic tuition

• 🍽 Daily lunch at the Dining Commons

• ⚽ Supervised recreation and outdoor play

• 🛡 Full on-campus safety and supervision

🚫 Not Included in Tuition

• 📝 Application fee

• ✈ Flights and transportation

• 💼 Personal spending money

• 🎟 Optional add-on activities (if available)

Closest major airport: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).

🎡 Top Campus Activities

• ⚽ Supervised outdoor playtime with games and sports (weather permitting)

• 🍽 Lunch daily at the Dining Commons

• 🌳 Mid-class courtyard breaks

• 🎨 Creative indoor activities during hot or rainy weather

• 🤝 Team-building and peer bonding activities

Bryn Mawr College — Google Maps ↗

101 N Merion Ave, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010, United States Google Maps ↗