Summer Ventures Academic Experience

Summer Ventures is a four-week academic program where students participate in a variety of research, demonstration, problem solving, and technical writing coursework. The App State curriculum provides a powerful enrichment experience in science and mathematics, with classes designed to enrich and complement college preparation, not duplicate high school or college coursework. Students will:

• Engage in hands-on research in science or mathematics
• Work closely with university faculty and staff
• Complete a collaborative research project and scientific paper
• Deliver an oral presentation of their work at the end of the program

Students are expected to participate fully, attending all classes and academic components, and perform as both an independent and collaborative learner. Professors will evaluate student work through papers, projects, reports or by other means. A summary of the quality of the student’s work will be provided. Students who successfully complete all program requirements receive a certificate at the closing ceremony.

To supplement research skills, students are encouraged to participate in:

• Research Prep Course (provided by NCSSM prior to the SVSM program)
• Technical Writing – Learn the written communication skills needed for scientific publications and presentations. Students will receive instruction within individual research classes and writing workshops.

Housing and Technology

Students will live in the residence hall under the supervision of qualified Student Life Instructors (SLIs) who provide guidance and plan social, athletic, cultural, and co-curricular activities. Students will have access to the campus wireless network and library computers. We strongly encourage students to bring a personal laptop (Chromebooks are not recommended) and a flash/thumb drive (or have access to personal cloud storage).

Policies

Summer Ventures institutes operate under statewide guidelines regarding curfews, dating, sign-outs, and visitors. All Youth Program Policies mandated by the UNC System and Appalachian State University must be followed, including the Protection of Minors Policies. Students are not allowed to have cars on campus, and drugs, alcohol and tobacco are strictly prohibited. Students who do not adhere to regulations, policies, who act in an immature manner or fail to take advantage of the academic opportunities offered by the program will be dismissed.