Hobart and William Smith Colleges Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute (ESSYI)
The Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute (ESSYI) is a two-week, college-level interdisciplinary summer program for talented high-school students entering their junior and senior years, or soon to be graduates. ESSYI introduces students to environmental issues and interdisciplinary techniques for addressing environmental problems. Students make new intellectual and emotional connections as they explore current environmental challenges through scientific, social, economic, philosophical, ethical, and political perspectives. The on-campus program is a one credit (4 semester hours) course that serves as an introduction to environmental studies.
ESSYI is a active, collaborative, and transformational educational experience. We believe that ESSYI is the best environmental studies summer academic program for high school students in the country. Our primary goal is to engage students in the process of collaborative environmental problem-solving in ways that help them understand the interdisciplinary nature of environmental issues and viable solutions. Students also clarify and refine their interests regarding college courses, majors, and future career options. Most of our alums say that ESSYI was a turning point for them in terms of knowing what they wanted to pursue in college and beyond.
Location(s)
- Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, New York
Schedule
- July 13th - July 26th, 2025
Cost/Compensation
- $3,900 (includes room and board)
Eligibility Requirements
- High school students who are rising junior and seniors
- Students should be passionate about environmental issues, academically talented, and inherently inquisitive.
Deadline
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the cap of 50 students has been reached
Application or Entry Requirements
- A completed online application.
- A short personal essay.
- A transcript.
- A letter of recommendation from a teacher.
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
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Hobart and William Smith Colleges, located in Geneva, New York, are a pair of closely affiliated liberal arts colleges. Founded in the early 19th century, these colleges offer a diverse range of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities. Known for their strong commitment to interdisciplinary learning and global education, Hobart and William Smith Colleges provide students with unique opportunities for study abroad, community engagement, and research. The colleges share a commitment to fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility, and they have a campus community that encourages active participation in extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and various clubs and organizations.
