What does it really take to make it in STEM? This is a question we think about a lot at BEAM. We know one thing for sure ― early exposure to deep thinking is a key. That’s why BEAM provides summer programs in advanced math in the summers after 6th and 7th grades. Then, to make sure our older students continue challenging themselves in the summers, we help them learn about and access a variety of other summer enrichment programs.
To get BEAM students started in this process, each winter BEAM holds an information session about summer opportunities.
At this year’s session, the day began with an overview of the different types of summer programs: academic (class- or research-based), internships, and volunteering. Students also heard from three BEAM 12th graders — Alberto, Jennora, and Qige — who talked about their experiences in a variety of summer programs. Finally, students learned about the summer application process, from writing essays and requesting recommendation letters to submitting financial documents and confirming attendance.
Later in the day, 10th and 11th grade students browsed a selection of summer programs by topic, while 9th graders heard more from our senior student speakers.
Students worked on creating a detailed plan for completing summer applications, with internal deadlines for themselves. The info session is just the kickoff to a continued focus on completing summer applications and selecting a program that will be a great fit.
Here are just some of the great summer programs BEAM students attended last year:
Center for Talented Youth Summer Programs, Johns Hopkins University
Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS), Boston University
MathPath, Mt. Holyoke College
Mathworks Honors Summer Math Camp, Texas State University
Center for Excellence in Youth Education, Icahn School of Medicine, Mt. Sinai
Talent Identification Program (TIP), Duke University
Summer Research Mentoring Program, American Museum of Natural History
