Contact:
Ellen Fleming
University Advancement
617-287-5327
Urban Scholars
Mission
"We can ill afford as a society and a country
not to invest in the talent potential of all of
our students, all of our young people, including
those who happen to come from low income backgrounds." Joan Becker, co-founder
Structured around an after-school and summer program, Urban Scholars gives students rigorous academic training in an intimate and caring environment. After completing the core curriculum, students enroll in advanced classes offered by Urban Scholars faculty and university courses. The middle school component focuses on math and science and helps them to develop the skills needed to take full advantage of college preparatory courses in these disciplines.
Teachers, counselors and other personnel at our target schools nominate students who have demonstrated exceptional potential for success. Students complete an application, submit a transcript and have an interview. Students are selected on the basis of academic achievement and the potential for even greater achievement—as exhibited by grades, standardized test scores and recommendations; motivation and a positive attitude toward self, school and future; interest in the program; leadership qualities; racial and ethnic diversity; and the degree to which the student might benefit from the program.
Year-round learning
The academic year program is divided into three semesters: two twelve week sessions in the fall and spring and a six week mini-semester in the winter. Classes meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-5 p.m. High school students take one course per semester; middle school students take a math and a science course. Additionally, university undergraduate, honors and graduate students supervise the study sessions, developing special projects and providing tutorial assistance. These students also serve as collegiate role models for the students.
An intensive seven week institute is offered during the summer. Students participate Monday through Thursday 9-5 and Friday 9-1:30, with optional enrichment and recreational activities offered on Friday afternoons. So that the various parts of the summer program can be woven together into a coherent whole, the institute is organized around a theme—in 2008 it was Colors of Success.
Transitions to college
In order to ease the transition to higher education, students participate in individualized college advising and career awareness activities. Through seminars and one-on-one advising, students learn about higher education, the college admissions process, and financial aid. Students also have the opportunity to visit college campuses. Students learn about the wide variety of career opportunities, the responsibilities of specific jobs, and the world of work through guest speakers and site visits to companies and agencies in the Boston area. Juniors and seniors are eligible to participate in career internships.