Summer Academy For Math And Science 2025 : Empowering Future STEM Leaders
Are you ready to launch your STEM journey into orbit? The Summer Academy For Math And Science 2025 at Carnegie Mellon University is your ticket to an unforgettable summer of discovery, innovation, and connection. This fully funded, six-week program transforms high school students from underrepresented communities into confident STEM scholars through hands-on projects, cutting-edge research, and mentorship from world-class faculty. Dive into a vibrant community of like-minded peers, tackle real-world challenges, and unlock your potential as a future leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Read on to explore why SAMS is the ultimate springboard for your STEM dreams!
Summer Academy For Math And Science
What is the Summer Academy For Math And Science?
The Summer Academy For Math And Science (SAMS) at Carnegie Mellon University is a transformative, fully funded pre-college program designed to empower high school students from underrepresented communities to excel in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). For over 20 years, SAMS has provided a rigorous academic experience, combining hands-on projects, classroom instruction, and mentorship from Carnegie Mellon’s world-renowned faculty and staff. This 6-week residential program, preceded by a virtual Jumpstart on June 16-17, 2025, equips students with the skills and confidence to pursue STEM degrees at top-tier universities.
Hosted by Carnegie Mellon’s Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion, SAMS fosters a supportive community where students build lasting connections with peers, mentors, and industry leaders, all while exploring cutting-edge STEM fields. Learn more about SAMS.
Why Choose SAMS at Carnegie Mellon?
Carnegie Mellon University is a global leader in STEM education, known for pioneering the first machine learning and robotics departments in the U.S. The Summer Academy For Math And Science stands out as a premier program for several reasons :
Fully Funded : SAMS covers tuition, housing, and dining, ensuring accessibility for all selected scholars.
Elite Faculty : Learn from Carnegie Mellon’s distinguished professors, such as Dr. Carrie Doonan (Biology) and Dr. Gizelle Sherwood (Chemistry), who bring cutting-edge research to the classroom.
College Preparation : Participate in workshops on college applications, financial aid, and career paths, preparing you for success in higher education.
Diverse Community : Connect with like-minded peers from across the U.S., fostering collaboration and lifelong friendships.
SAMS Curriculum and Academic Experience
The Summer Academy For Math And Science offers a dynamic, two-part curriculum designed to challenge and inspire :
Part 1 : Virtual Jumpstart (June 16-17, 2025)
This mandatory virtual component introduces essential skills for the in-person program. Students engage in interactive sessions to build a foundation in quantitative and computational skills, preparing them for the rigorous coursework ahead.
Part 2 : 6-Week Residential Program (June 21 - August 2, 2025)
The in-person program immerses students in college-level courses and hands-on projects, including:
Biology : Conduct experiments in biochemistry, cellular, and molecular biology, such as DNA isolation and protein analysis, guided by Dr. Carrie Doonan.
Chemistry : Master analytical techniques like spectroscopy and chromatography using advanced instruments, led by Dr. Gizelle Sherwood.
Polymer Chemistry Project : Explore polymerization processes for real-world applications, emphasizing safe lab practices.
Gene Expression Project : Investigate biological rhythms and gene expression, guided by Ph.D. candidate Sarah Oladejo.
College Transition Course : Develop identity and self-regulated learning skills with Dr. Kevin Jarbo, preparing for the transition to college.
Students also participate in writing workshops focused on college application essays and collaborate on STEM projects, culminating in presentations at the SAMS Symposium.
SAMS Symposium and Community Engagement
The program concludes with a day-long Symposium on August 1, 2025, featuring a Closing Awards Ceremony and student-led STEM project presentations. Families and caregivers are invited to attend in person or via livestream, fostering a sense of community. Ongoing virtual enrichment sessions post-program cover topics like FAFSA, budgeting, and college prep, ensuring sustained support for scholars and their families.
Who Can Apply?
SAMS targets students from underrepresented communities, including first-generation college students and those attending high schools with historically low admittance rates to top-tier universities. Eligibility requirements include:
Age : Must be 16 by June 21, 2025.
Grade : Must be entering 11th or 12th grade in summer 2025.
Financial Need : Applicants must demonstrate financial need via tax documents or a NACAC Application Fee Waiver signed by a high school guidance counselor.
International students are not eligible for SAMS.
How to Apply
The application process for the Summer Academy For Math And Science is holistic and competitive. Follow these steps :
Review Eligibility : Ensure you meet the age, grade, and financial need requirements.
Prepare Materials : Submit an unofficial high school transcript, two letters of recommendation (one from a counselor, one from a STEM teacher), and a 300-500 word essay responding to: “What do you hope to gain from participating in Carnegie Mellon’s Pre-College Programs?” Additional essays may be required.
Submit Financial Documentation : Provide tax documents or a NACAC Application Fee Waiver to demonstrate financial need.
Apply Online : Submit by the preferred deadline (February 1, 2025) or final deadline (March 1, 2025) via the Carnegie Mellon Pre-College portal. Decisions are released on April 4, 2025.
Note: SAMS applications are not considered for Early Decision or rolling admission.
Benefits of Attending SAMS
Participating in the Summer Academy For Math And Science offers unparalleled advantages :
College Credit : Earn transferable college credits through courses like the College Transition Course.
Research Experience : Work on cutting-edge projects with faculty and graduate students, enhancing your college applications.
Career Exploration : Engage with industry leaders like Shawn Blanton (Electrical and Computer Engineering) to explore STEM careers.
Community Building : Join a diverse cohort of STEM scholars, fostering collaboration and mentorship through the Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion.
Summer Academy For Math And Science
Apply Now!
Ready to embark on a life-changing STEM journey? Apply to the Summer Academy For Math And Science at Carnegie Mellon University by February 1, 2025 (preferred) or March 1, 2025 (final). Visit the SAMS website for full details and start your application today!
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