
Application is closed
Exploring Solutions to Global Problems: Climate, Energy & Sustainability is a week-long enrichment program designed to prepare high school students for future careers in climate and energy policy.



To meet the global energy challenge, the next generation of climate and energy scientists must address the need for reliable, affordable energy to foster economic growth while averting climate change and damages to the environment.
Through rigorous discussion-based classes, readings, lectures, and collaborative hands-on projects, students will learn about pressing current issues in climate and energy from leading faculty in the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), the Becker Friedman Institute, and the Climate Impact Lab.
Students will also be exposed to the kinds of opportunities available in a large urban center for academic work and professional development (as well as just for fun!) through activities that showcase the city of Chicago.
The program will be hosted on-campus, and program participants must reside in campus housing for the duration of the program.
Individual schedules for each enrichment program will vary, but a typical day will begin at 9:00 a.m. with lectures, discussion sections, or workshops in the morning. Afternoons typically consist of an on-campus tour, excursion to another part of the city, or hands-on activity related to the subject area of the program. Evenings typically consist of either open social time or activities or events planned by either program or residential staff.
Students participating in the Enrichment Programs have access to the residence hall and dining hall, but are subject to more limited access of university facilities, and will not have access to the Student Wellness Center or the Athletic Center. For tours or activities on campus, program staff will secure entry and access for program participants as needed.
Students are required to provide their insurance information after they are admitted to the Enrichment Program.
Applicants should be at least 15 years of age and be a current high school sophomores and juniors enrolled in a high school in the United States.
Application materials include:
Online application
Transcript (official or unofficial)
Supplement & essays
At least one teacher recommendation
At least one parent confirmation email received
Applicants will be asked to respond to the following essay questions in the application:
Why did you choose the particular program/courses for which you have applied? How are they related to your current interests and future plans? Please be as specific as possible, and make sure your response covers each of the courses you elected. (Limit: 500 words)
“Since its founding, the University has been committed to the idea that a culture of rigorous inquiry requires an environment where diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas inform and stimulate intellectual exchange, challenge, and engagement.” -UChicago Office of the Provost. How does your perspective, experience or background contribute to this culture of inquiry in this program? What do you hope to gain or learn by engaging with peers from all over the U.S. or from different parts of the world? (Limit: 300 words)
Deadline
THE DEADLINE TO APPLY SUMMER SESSION COURSES HAS PASSED FOR SUMMER 2023!
Costs for the program, inclusive of tuition, room, and board, are completely covered. This program is being offered at no cost to selected participants, and participants who require financial assistance for travel to and from campus are eligible to receive additional funds.
Financial Aid
If students require financial assistance to cover roundtrip travel, please complete the financial aid application, which is part of the Summer Session Application.

Application is closed
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