Young Scholars Institute

The Young Scholars Institute provides highly-abled students with a unique opportunity to engage in a challenging and fun-filled program designed to provide intellectual development and stimulation for 24academically gifted and curious rising eighth and ninth graders from across Georgia and beyond. Participants will explore academic interest in the areas of science, math, humanities and art.

Students will not only be "learning," they will be actively involved in "doing". The emphasis will be on hands-on projects and experiences, seminars, and applications to the real world. Social and recreational activities are included to promote interaction and friendships.

Sponsored by The Advanced Academy of Georgia, YSI will be held on the campus of the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, GA. During the camp, students will live with professional staff in a secure, air-conditioned residence hall.

Program Schedule

Math & Science -Sunday, July 13th - Saturday, July 19th
Students will investigate Chemistry, Geology, Physics/Astronomy, and Mathematics.
The week will conclude with a closing ceremony in which students will highlight their discoveries from the week.

Arts & Humanities - Sunday, July 20th - Saturday, July 26th
Class include computer animation, debate, creative writing, and art.
Students will demonstrate what they have learned during an end of week closing ceremony.

On a typical weekday, students eat breakfast as a group, do two to three hours of classroom work, have lunch together, then engage in a wide variety of social and recreational activities until "lights out." All sessions are designed to be in-class, interactive learning experiences. In addition, other learning activities include work at the University of West Georgia observatory, evening enrichment events, and much more...

Application, Deadlines, and Selection Process

Rising eighth and ninth graders are invited to apply. Students need not be advanced in their studies, but must have a strong interest in the subject areas, a demonstrated record of above-average academic achievement, a high level of motivation, and a willingness to explore.

Enrollment will be limited to 24 young scholars. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of Institute faculty and staff. Selection will be based on strength of application, including personal statement, school transcript, two (2) academic teacher recommendations, appropriate test scores (ITBS, PSAT, SAT, or ACT) and date application is received. Apply now. Space is limited!

Click here to download the 2008 Young Scholars Institute Application

Application Deadlines
Early Deadline: May 15, 2008
Duke TIP Deadline: June 11, 2008

Cost

Fees are $450 for one week or $850 for both and include: room, board, all study materials, and social activities. A $100.00 application fee, to be applied toward the total cost is required and is non-refundable for those accepted into the program. A limited number of need-based partial and full scholarships are available.

Click here to download the 2008 Visionary Award Application
(This is the Young Scholars Institute scholarship application.)

Staff

Susan Colgate, Academy Director, and Dr. Bob Powell, Professor of Physics, and their staff of talented and enthusiastic University Professors, have developed a challenging and rewarding academic program. They will encourage independent thinking, the desire to explore and experiment, and an interest in learning.

Brian Nieft, the Advanced Academy's Residential Coordinator is skilled in community living management. He will live in the Institute's residence hall and supervise the resident mentors, one for each four students. These experienced and responsible residence counselors will guide the students through their recreational and social activities and be on-site 24 hours a day.

For more information, contact:

Anneliesa Finch
The Advanced Academy of Georgia
678.839.6249
afinch@westga.edu