The Brown Pre-College Summer Program, hosted by Brown University, offers high school students a unique educational experience at one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions. Over a duration of one to six weeks, students can participate in college-level classes, engage with like-minded peers, and experience life as a Brown student– regardless of their location. This program extends beyond the classroom, offering a range of educational and social activities to immerse students in the Brown University Summer Program experience.
Various programs are available for students aged 13 to 18, including Summer@Brown, Leadership Institute, STEM, and Pre-Baccalaureate. These programs offer flexibility in terms of duration, with courses typically available from June to August, allowing students to choose the timing that best suits their schedules and interests. Moreover, the program provides options for remote participation through online courses, as well as on-campus and off-campus experiences for specialized programs.
With an impressive selection of 311 courses, students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects, including traditional academic fields like science, humanities, and social sciences, as well as specialized and unique topics. This diverse range of program options, durations, and courses makes the Brown Pre-College Program an appealing choice for high school students seeking to enhance their academic knowledge, develop leadership skills, and prepare for college.
2. Why You Should Apply for Brown Pre-College Program?
You’ll experience academic excellence with Brown University’s diverse course selections: Brown University is well-known for its innovative and open curriculum, which encourages students to explore a wide range of interdisciplinary subjects. With 311 courses belonging to 10 unique fields, allowing students a unique opportunity for academic exploration. This flexibility and commitment to innovation distinguish Brown’s offerings and provide students with an exceptional academic experience.
You’ll be ready for college: The program offers college-level courses, exposing students to the rigor and expectations of higher education. Whether attending classes on campus or virtually, students gain a sense of what college life is really like. They will become familiar with the campus culture, resources, and the level of independence required in a college setting. By participating in this program, students will be well-prepared for the challenges and expectations of college life.You’ll make friends and form lasting connections: By spending a summer with Brown on campus, students have the opportunity to participate in social and recreational events that will allow them to meet and connect with their peers outside of the classroom. This includes things like soccer games, spa nights, campus dances, and succulent planting events, as well as many more. Off-campus activities, such as visiting local beaches or community service, provide additional opportunities for adventure and connection with peers. Residential students will also have the chance to live in Brown’s residence halls, giving them a preview of true college life, while commuter students can still engage in various activities to connect with their peers.
You will receive hands-on learning: Brown University’s curriculum offers a robust hands-on learning experience. For example, students who participate in the STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders conduct laboratory experiments and collaborate with peers to engage in research projects tailored to their STEM interests.
3. What Kind of Students Are a Great Fit for the Brown Pre-college Summer Program?
We’ve collected feedback from various students who previously participated in the program to provide you with a comprehensive perspective of the ins and outs, and which kinds of students benefit most from each program:
Program Fitting Overview (more details is available on Brown Youtube):
- Summer@Brown: Summer@Brown provides an ideal platform for students from ages 14-18 who haven’t yet decided what they want to study in college. With a diverse array of over 300 non-credit courses spanning STEM and non-STEM subjects, this program encourages exploration without the pressure of formal grades.
- The Brown Environmental Leadership Lab (BELL): is for students ages 16-18 who are interested in environmental studies, ecology, sustainability, etc. There are several different locations offered for this program: Alaska, the Eastern Sierras, and Rhode Island– each with its own specific experience tailored to the particular challenges and opportunities offered by the location’s environment.
- Brown Experiential Education (BEE): is for students ages 16-18 who want to explore Italian history, art, architecture, language and culture while also practicing conversational Italian language.
- Leadership Institute: is for rising 11th and 12th graders who are passionate about social change. Participants practice leadership skills and craft meaningful Action Plans in relation to social issues.
STEM for Rising 9th and 10th Graders: is for rising 9th and 10th graders who want to explore and excel in STEM fields. Students will have the opportunity to meet with graduate students and learn about graduate-level research projects, while additionally conducting their own research project that will be presented at the end of the program. - Pre-Baccalaureate: is for rising or recently graduated high school seniors who want to get a head start with their undergraduate studies, and take credit-bearing, undergraduate courses.
In addition, these programs may be right for you if you are:
- Open to Diverse Learning Environments: If you thrive in a diverse learning environment, Brown has the program for you. With classes instructed by graduate students coming from various countries, students will be immersed in a multicultural academic setting, delving deep into their interests while also gaining important global perspectives.
- Wanting Something Different from Your Traditional Summer Camp Experience: The Brown Pre-College Summer Program maintains a balanced schedule that accommodates both academic commitments and leisure time. The program doesn’t follow the traditional structure of a summer camp, where every day is filled with inconsequential activities. Instead, while participating in the Brown Pre-College Summer Program, students will have to excel in time management and be self-motivated to get the most out of their experience.
- Open to a Multifaceted Student Body: Regardless of subjects, participants enter the program with a spectrum of diverse life experiences and goals, ranging from a strong academic focus to a desire for a more relaxed summer experience. This dynamic mix of students fosters a rich social environment where individuals can identify and connect with like-minded peers.
While these programs may not directly impact college admissions, they are praised for their enriching experiences and the sense of community they foster among participants.
Recap for the summer program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ts8gP3GKBks
4. Spend Your Summer With Aralia Education
In addition to pre-college summer programs, Aralia Education is offering a unique summer program taught by experienced high school teachers in the United States, paving the way for academic and professional growth. Aralia’s programs provide students with the guidance and skills they need to excel in their academic pursuits and future careers.
The Brown Pre-College Program offers an extraordinary opportunity for high school students to enrich their academic journey, develop essential skills, and cultivate lifelong connections. Hosted by Brown University, one of the most esteemed Ivy League institutions, this program stands out for its distinctive features and offerings. By participating in this program, students can gain a competitive edge, explore their academic interests, and prepare for a successful college experience.
