Program Description

University of Maryland

Young Scholars Program

Summer Program
College Park, Maryland


		Program Description Program Overview Visit Web Site Get Free Info See Photos

For More Information, Contact
Eric Johnson, Program Coordinator
Office of Extended Studies
0132 Main Administration Building
University of Maryland
College Park, Maryland 20742-5015
301-405-6551
http://www.summer.umd.edu/s/ysp
E-mail: summer@umd.edu

Type of Program: College preparation
Participants: Coeducational, rising high school juniors and seniors
Enrollment: Approximately 400 students
Program Dates: July 12–31, 2009
Head of Program: Eric Johnson, Program Coordinator, Office of Extended Studies

Location

The program is held at the University of Maryland, College Park, one of the leading public research institutions in the mid-Atlantic region. The University, ranked eighteenth nationwide among public universities in the 2007 U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges,” is a Metro ride from the sights and culture of Washington, D.C., and a 45-minute trip by rail or car from Baltimore, Maryland.

Background and Philosophy

The University of Maryland’s Young Scholars Program is a great way for rising high school juniors and seniors to get ready for college. During three unforgettable weeks, students explore bold ideas and new ways of thinking. Motivated students have the opportunity to pursue academic interests, explore career opportunities, earn 3 college credits in three weeks, and discover college life at Maryland. In the Young Scholars Program, students enroll in a 3-credit introductory course, going from theory to practice through field trips or guest speakers. Dynamic instructors create a learning environment that encourages creative problem solving. Students benefit from Maryland’s vast resources, including libraries, computer and instructional labs, and recreational, residential, and dining facilities.

Program Offerings

The Young Scholars Program offers more than twenty courses in subject areas that are at the cutting edge of theory, thought, and technology. Students enroll in one 3-credit course, selecting from the following subject areas: architecture and urban planning, creative expression, the business of technology, the environment, science and engineering, communication, exploring the past, public health and wellness, and our changing society.

Enrollment

Each course has an enrollment limit ranging from 15 to 40 students. Course availability is limited, so students should be sure to apply early for best selection.

Daily Schedule

Classes meet Monday through Friday, 9 to 4. Schedules vary depending on the particular course requirements.

Extra Opportunities and Activities

Through academic challenges and serious fun, students learn, grow, and succeed. Workshops and seminars featuring speakers in innovative career or academic fields further enrich the learning experience. Students participate in team-building exercises at the ropes challenge course, attend movie nights at the student union, and socialize at the Terp Zone, during barbecues, and at mixers. Weekend trips to Washington, D.C., emphasize the University’s proximity to the nation’s capital.

Facilities

Participants may reside on campus or commute from home. The residence hall is a traditional air-conditioned dormitory. All participants have access to the University’s computing labs, libraries, student union, and campus recreation facilities.
Students enjoy meals in campus dining facilities and off-campus restaurants. Residential students receive meal cards that provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner; commuter students receive a meal card for daily weekday lunches.

Staff

Courses are taught by highly qualified faculty members who have both teaching expertise and real-world experience.

Medical Care

Students who become ill or injured are taken to the Campus Health Center, a nationally accredited ambulatory health-care facility located on the campus, or to the nearest hospital, depending on the severity of the injury or illness.

Costs

For complete information on the course package fees—residential or commuter—students should visit the Web site at http://www.ysp.umd.edu/ps. All applications must be accompanied by a $205 nonrefundable application and enrollment deposit fee. The course package fee includes most course and program expenses. Students should expect to purchase books, class packets, and classroom supplies. Approximately $50 to $75 per week should cover most miscellaneous personal expenses.

Transportation

The University of Maryland is located between two major airports, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport in Baltimore and Ronald Reagan International Airport in Washington, D.C. Subway and train stations are connected to the University by the Shuttle-UM bus service. The Shuttle-UM service route also offers transportation service within the vicinity of the campus at predetermined locations, five days a week.

Application Timetable

Applicants for the Young Scholars Program must be rising high school juniors or seniors in good academic standing, have a grade point average of 3.0 or better, and demonstrate maturity, self-discipline, motivation, and a desire to succeed.
Applications are accepted beginning February 16. Completed applications include a signed application form, a copy of the student’s high school transcript, and a letter of recommendation. Only completed applications are considered; students are advised to follow the instructions carefully. Admissions are made on a rolling and space-available basis. Course enrollment is limited; early applicants are more likely to receive their first choice.