5 Summer Programs in Montana for High Schoolers

Summer programs are the perfect way for high schoolers to get a taste of what it’s like to attend college. Often hosted on college campuses and offering a range of topics—from STEM to arts and everything in between—these programs allow students to delve into existing interests or even discover new ones.

What Makes Summer Programs Worth It for High School Students?

For high schoolers who already know what their major is going to be, summer programs offer a great opportunity to explore this topic in more depth. The programs tend to consist of small, intimate classes that allow students to get more face time with their instructor. Students will get insight into what it means to study a topic in a college setting; whether it confirms or confutes their interest, the experience is guaranteed to be a valuable one.

For students who don’t yet know their intended major, summer programs are equally helpful. It is an opportunity to ask questions, explore interests, and learn more about what attending college is like. They may leave the program with a better idea of what their major will be, or equally important, what it won’t be.

In a few unique cases, attending a summer program may even mean the chance to acquire transferable college credits. This can help a student graduate early, satisfy undergraduate requirements, or possibly even count toward future fulfillment of a major.

Finally, summer programs offer the chance to forge lasting connections with students who share their passions. Some of these programs will draw kids from all over the country, cultivating a space in which students of different backgrounds can learn from one another.

Ready to find the right summer program for you? Read on to learn about five summer programs offered in Montana.

5 Summer Programs in Montana

1. Schwanke Honors Institute: Prep for College and Beyond | Creative Writing in the Environment

Hosted by the University of Montana, the Schwanke Honors Institute is perfect for students looking to explore an interest in creative writing. Students in this two-week program will gain hands-on experience in exploring the outdoors and channeling their reflections into written form.

Specialty: Writing

Who is it for? 9th, 10th, 11th graders

Program Cost: $1,495

Application Deadline: April 1st, 2019

Required Essay: In 500 words or less, please describe your interest in participating in the Schwanke Institute’s summer honors program. Please be specific in the relevant experiences you have had, what you are interested in learning, and why you would like to participate in this institute.

2. Schwanke Honors Institute: Prep for College and Beyond | Climate, Science, Society, and Solutions

This program is also offered by the Schwanke Honors Institute, but offers an alternative with less emphasis on writing. If your child is passionate about exploring sustainability, this two-week program at the University of Montana might be a match.

Specialty: Sciences/Biology

Who is it for? 9th, 10th, 11th graders

Program Cost: $1,495

Application Deadline: April 1st, 2019

Required Essay: In 500 words or less, please describe your interest in participating in the Schwanke Institute’s summer honors program. Please be specific in the relevant experiences you have had, what you are interested in learning, and why you would like to participate in this institute. 

3. Red Lodge Music Festival

This exciting summer program lasts ten days and is acclaimed as Montana’s premier music camp. Students admitted to this program will participate in an intensive music ensemble, with an agenda packed full of rehearsals and recitals, as well as a range of recreational activities.

Specialty: Music

Who is it for? 9th, 10th, 11th graders

Program Cost: $499

Application Deadline: Rolling basis

4. Heads Up Camp – AHEC Montana

This one-week program, hosted by the Area Health Center in Montana, will teach students valuable trade skills in the field of behavioral health. Past attendees have praised the impressive lineup of professionals—from social workers to counselors to psychologists—as one of many highlights of this program. At the end of the week, students receive their Youth Mental Health First Aid certificate.

Specialty: Medicine

Who is it for? 9th, 10th, 11th graders

5. Montana Learning Center: Lewis and Clark Leadership Course

Interested in exploration? This eight-day excursion takes 24 students on a trip through nature to explore the dynamic history of Lewis and Clark. The program consists of canoeing, discovery training, trekking through historic sites, and more.

Specialty: Management/Leadership

Who is it for? 9th, 10th, 11th graders

Program Cost: $1,499

Application Deadline: Rolling basis

How Can You Find The Best Summer Programs For Your Teen?

There are hundreds of options for summer programs, with a wide variety in location and academic specialty. How do you know which ones are right for you and your teen?

First, settle on a location that you’re comfortable with your student applying to, be it a region-, state-, or country-wide scope. Once you have determined the geographic range of your search, decide what specialty appeals to your child the most. Ideally, this will align with a potential major or career. For students who are undecided—and don’t worry, most students still are in high school—choose a topic that reflects their passions.

Once you have narrowed in on topic and location, it’s a good idea to consult with a guidance counselor, trusted teachers, or mentors to find out about exciting opportunities that fit what you’re looking for. These adults often have connections and resources at their disposal to help your teen find the perfect program.

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