PROGRAM PILLARS
Fun and educational summer programs that build confidence.
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Top-Tier Academics
- Over 50 unique courses and workshops to choose from. Summer Discovery middle school offerings available at UCLA and Georgetown and Gifted Opportunities at UCLA, Cornell, Yale or Bryn Mawr.
- Unique courses are taught by experienced instructors who provide exploratory, hands-on multi-disciplinary learning opportunities
- Immersive, hands-on learning makes it fun in the classroom with age-appropriate activities and content
- Social-emotional development in and out of the classroom builds confidence
Institute for the Gifted
- Middle school students can choose the Summer Discovery gifted and talented track designed specifically for gifted, talented, and highly proficient students
- Proprietary Academic Curriculum designed and taught by experts who work with Gifted Students
- Gifted programs available at Yale, UCLA, Cornell or Bryn Mawr
- Fosters critical and creative thinking skills through hands-on multidisciplinary STEAM+ curriculum
- Challenges students to push the limits of their knowledge and lean into their passions
- Encourages students to embrace their individuality and thrive in a community of inclusive and like-minded peers
- Students refine soft skill development and build confidence
- Programming for the whole person – academics combined with social, cultural and recreational activities
Unforgettable Experiences On and Off Campus
- Enjoy jampacked on-campus programs like Silent Discos, Karaoke, Movie Nights, Trivia Games, and more
- Students can explore university facilities like the gym, dining halls, recreation centers, and more
- Off-campus trips vary based on location but often include trips to the beach, lake, city landmarks, theme parks, sporting events, local hot spots, and more
05Select from programs at UCLA, Georgetown, Cornell, Yale, or Bryn Mawr
24/7Summer Discovery Campus Staff & Nurse Availability
Academic Excellence & Social Development
Immersive, hands-on learning experiences enhance classroom engagement, making the educational process more dynamic and fun. These approaches facilitate the development of both academic and interpersonal skills, while also deepening students' understanding of their interests.
View CoursesView CoursesDates & OfferingsDates & Offerings
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Expand your creativity and fuel your passion – all in one summer.
Discover a unique blend of academic and life skills experience, where learning is everywhere. Students enjoy classes, plenty of recreational time, and trips on and off campus with friends each day.
Summer Discovery Middle School Video
To learn more about the middle school experience at Summer Discovery, click on the video! Our programs are designed to challenge and inspire students through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. With expert-led courses tailored to middle schoolers, we focus on nurturing academic curiosity in a fun, supportive environment with ample time for fun and socialization outside the classroom.
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OUR PROCESS
Your best summer ever.
- Apply online and select your campus.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis – the earlier you apply, the more choices you will have. Most decisions are made within 5 business days.
Once accepted, it's time to officially enroll and place your deposit to hold your spot.
Course registration typically opens in February, so make sure you are ready to go!
Final payment is due in April (or later if late enrollment), then get ready to countdown the days until Summer Discovery!
FIND THE RIGHT FIT
Residential- Live in a secure residence hall
- Eat in university dining halls each day
- Daily supervised programs, trips, and events every afternoon and evening
Commuter- Get a taste of learning in a university setting
- Enjoy afternoon activities
- Eat lunch in the dining halls
SAFETY & SECURITY
Age appropriate supervision, prioritized wellbeing.
- Staff must clear thorough criminal background checks and complete specialized training for working with minors.
- Students may move about specific campus areas in groups of three or more at designated times.
- While students have a sense of freedom, staff constantly keep in close communication with students to ensure they are where they need to be.
- Teaching assistants monitor the dining hall.
- Nurse lives on campus and is available 24 hours/day. No student is allowed off campus without supervision.
Student to Staff Ratios
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Summer Discovery's staff and instructors?
Our administrative staff on each campus holds an average of 14 years experience working at Summer Discovery. They include: Director, Associate Director, Academic Coordinator, Programs and Activities Coordinator, Health and Wellness Coordinator, Athletic Coordinator, Head Resident Counselor. Many are teachers, guidance counselors, or school administrators. Resident Counselors are great people to hang out with, talk to, learn from, help you with your classes, and get you involved in activities. Your Resident Counselor lives on your floor. Instructors are university instructors and distinguished visiting instructors. Enrichment courses are also taught by graduate students, area professionals, and top secondary school teachers.
Can I still have fun while taking classes?
Yes! You may choose from dozens of enrichment and/or college credit classes that are challenging, but not overwhelming. Most classes are small and emphasize interactive, innovative learning. The teachers are enthusiastic and supportive, which makes learning exciting and fun.
How are roommates selected?
You will submit a personal profile in the spring. This profile helps us learn about your likes and dislikes, personality traits, interests, and sleeping habits. As most students come alone, we use this information to match you with a roommate(s) with similar interests and age. Attending with a friend? All roommate requests must be noted on your personal profile. Only mutual requests will be honored.
Middle School Campus Offerings
Choose from a variety of top-tier universities. A new campus to discover, a new city to explore, a new college-ready version of yourself to emerge.
UCLA
Georgetown University
Cornell University
Yale University
Bryn Mawr College
Other Programs
We offer additional experiential and pre-college programs for high school students and gifted & talented students in grades 1-12.
High School
Elementary School