Program Schedule
You will start your day with breakfast, independent study, and morning session which meets from 10:00am-12:00pm. After morning session, you will have time for lunch, and independent or group study which is then followed by the afternoon session of college advising seminars from 1:00-2:30pm and skill workshops from 2:45-4:00pm.
Evenings are spent in optional enrichment activities and dinner. Community events provide the opportunity to reflect and relax at the end of a busy day.
Upon completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Demonstrate a general understanding of the college application and financial aid process.
- Define self-reflection and the role it plays in the college experience.
- Examine the opportunities available through undergraduate education and begin to consider the role these opportunities play in the college search process.
- Gain confidence in the college classroom and community.
- Develop key college readiness skills including communication, critical thinking, and group collaboration.
Course Materials
There are no required textbooks for High School Summer Launch. Course materials will be shared via Canvas.
You should plan to bring a laptop or tablet for use during class sessions and to complete assignments. A small notebook is also helpful. The program will provide all students with pens and a folder. No other supplies are required.
Program Expectations and Grading
High School Summer Launch is a noncredit program. You are evaluated based on attendance, completion of assignments by deadlines, quality of work produced, active participation and engagement in sessions, as well as your ability to adhere to academic integrity standards and program policies.
You will be evaluated as follows:
- You must attend all sessions, and complete all assigned pre-readings, unless otherwise excused by the program director.
- You must create and present your personal "Character Jar."
- You must participate in daily written discussions via Canvas. You must contribute a 250-word response to a given prompt and respond to at least two of your peers' posts.
- You must submit a 500-word reflection paper. Details and rubric for this assignment will be available in Canvas.
- You are to be an active participant in each session. This includes being an engaged listener, participating in class activities, and contributing to discussions.
Lectures and Discussion (10:00am-12:00pm)
Led by esteemed WashU affiliates from various disciplines, our lectures offer a captivating glimpse into the boundless opportunities of undergraduate education. Step into the world of academia as you explore how these enriching experiences can shape your college journey and influence your choices. Each traditional session is designed to introduce you to the dynamic atmosphere of a college classroom while fostering essential college readiness skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and strategic networking.
To enhance your learning experience, pre-readings will be provided for each lecture. Whether you’re new to the subject or a seasoned explorer, no specific background knowledge or prerequisites are required—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!
Lecture topics:
- Introduction to Arts & Sciences and a Liberal Arts Education
- The Study Abroad Experience
- Reflecting on What Matters
- Considering Research as You Research Colleges
- Belonging: Finding Your Community
Lectures are followed by discussion sessions where undergraduate, recent grads, and graduate students share their personal college journeys and provide valuable advice on how to balance social and academic life, applying to college, choosing a major, pre-professional studies, and college readiness.
College Advising Seminars (1:00-2:30pm)
Embark on an enlightening journey with our college advising seminars, purposefully crafted to demystify the college application process. Gain invaluable insights and practical tips that will transform what once seemed daunting into an achievable endeavor. By the end of these dynamic sessions, you’ll walk away with a tailored action plan and a treasure trove of resources to guide and empower you on your quest for higher education.
College advising seminar topics:
- Beginning the College Search: Researching and Choosing the Right College for You
- From Transcripts to Essays: Overview of the College Application Process
- Building Relationships: Connecting with College Staff and Faculty
- Financial Aid Process
- Next Steps on Your College Journey
Skill Workshops (2:45-4:00pm)
As the day at High School Summer Launch winds down, the excitement ramps up with our vibrant skills workshops. Dive deep into exploring essential traits like growth mindset, curiosity, and kindness, all while uncovering and defining your own unique character strengths. Discover how these powerful attributes are the cornerstones of leadership, self-advocacy, effective communication, and critical thinking.
But the learning doesn’t stop there—each workshop culminates in an enriching reflection session. Engage in thoughtful discussions, share your insights, and strategize on how to seamlessly integrate these newfound skills into real-world scenarios. Get ready to leave each session not just inspired but truly prepared to apply your enhanced character and abilities in everyday life.