Barrett Summer Scholars

As soon as summer comes, most children are ready to part with their books and continue their studies. But for a naive and motivated young person, summer is not a time to slack off. That is what the Barrett Summer Scholars (BSS) program offers, among other things: a chance to get intellectual development and at the same time get a taste of what it is like to be an Arizona State University’s Barrett, The Honors College student.

The moment students set foot on the campus, they are filled with excitement. The sound of laughter is heard in the orientation halls, and the anticipation of what is to come in a week of learning is felt. It is not just an academic program; it is a taste of what it is like to be in college, to prepare the young people of today to be the leaders of tomorrow, the challenge, the elate, and the connect with them.

Getting Prepared for the Society of Future Intellectuals

It is well known that Barrett, The Honors College, is one of the most demanding institutions in the country in terms of the curriculum. Although it is primarily geared towards undergraduate study, the Barrett Summer Scholars program extends this mission to middle and high school students, giving them a taste of what it’s like to attend college.

One of the main activities within the program is The Human Event, a unique-Barratt course that enhances students’ critical thinking skills when working with texts. In addition to this compulsory course, students can enroll in a number of optional courses – from engineering and sustainability to medicine and arts – all of which are taught by ASU faculty.

“We bring in a hundred incoming ninth graders from all over Arizona to give them a firsthand look at the college experience,” noted Amy Ball, the Assistant Director of Outreach Experiences at Access ASU. “We want them to know that they are welcome here, at ASU and Barrett, and that they have the potential to succeed here,” he continued.

More Than Just Academics: Creating a Community

In contrast to traditional summer schools, the Barrett Summer Scholars program does not consist of usual classes.

However, the program is filled with a number of exciting events and activities that are aimed at developing leadership, teamwork, and friendship that will last a lifetime. From singing contests, games we used to play when we were in camp, or even trying to move an Oreo from your forehead to your mouth, every moment is made to make the students feel more comfortable with each other.

At the end of the program, students who came in as strangers leave with a group of friends, supporters, and the knowledge that they are wanted.

“You know it was a great experience when you see kids crying during the farewell,” Ball added.

Mentoring for the Future Generation

Another important aspect of the BSS experience is the support and guidance from student ambassadors, who are current Barrett students and who serve as mentors during the week. It is not only these ambassadors who assist in the organization of the program, but also make the younger students feel comfortable and encourage them to get out of their shells.

‘It is a lot like being a parent,” said Armin Abdullahzadeh, a pre-med student at Barrett. “You build up a relationship with these kids. To see them develop, to see them become more confident, more mature, it is really heartwarming,” he added.

It is evident that these mentors are present. As Abdullahzadeh took the stage to give closing remarks, a loud cheer could be heard from the students, who began to chant his name and even shout, ”Armin, we love you!”

For some of them, these ambassadors are more than just mentors; they are leaders who give advice and support that students take back with them after the camp.

Sougata Nayak, a graduate student in the College of Informatics and Future Development, believes that this is an opportunity to pay off the debt.

“When I see these students, I remember myself at 13,” Nayak said.“If I could give a piece of advice to my past self, I would. Since I can’t, I am going to try to pass it on to them instead. If I can impact them in any small way, then that’s a success,” he said.

A Launchpad for Future Success

A place to grow, not just a summer program. In its simplest form, Barrett Summer Scholars exists beyond academic camp principles; it transforms students in profound ways. It builds confidence while nurturing ambition and develops a powerful community connection that students maintain for their future educational pursuits.

The students who show uncertainty about college attendance when they join BSS receive a powerful message that ASU finds space for each of them with comprehensive support for reaching their potential.