boston college summer challenge creative writing seminar

Summer Challenge: Seminars

Note: summer challenge session 2 (july 7-july 19)  and session 3 (july 21-august 2)  are now closed and no longer accepting new applications for summer 2024. , summer challenge session 1 (june 16-june 28) is  still open and accepting applications..

Boston University’s Summer Challenge seminars allow you to engage in a high level of learning and achievement with other high school students—without focusing on grades. Choosing two noncredit seminars (one morning, one afternoon), you’ll participate in lectures, discussions, individual and group work, project-based assignments, and field trips. Small class sizes ensure ample attention from experienced college instructors as you meet the challenges of college-level study. Each seminar culminates in a final class presentation.

Following the conclusion of your Summer Challenge session(s), a certificate of completion and letters of evaluation from both seminar instructors will be provided to you.

Morning Seminars

Abnormal psychology, business: from the ground up, chemistry of medicine, computer science, creative writing, electrical engineering, film and literature, international politics, visual arts, afternoon seminars, anatomy and physiology, criminal justice, infectious diseases, mass communication, persuasive writing, photography.

Investigate the experience and expression of psychological disorders—what it means to be “abnormal” and its effect on people’s lives. Students are encouraged to think analytically and challenge their beliefs regarding abnormal behavior and personality. Through dynamic group exercises and discussions, students gain a working knowledge of psychological disorders and an appreciation for the challenges of experiencing mental illness.

Morning Seminar: Sessions 2 & 3 Afternoon Seminar: Sessions 1, 2, & 3

Understand the structure and function of the human body through anatomical models, animations, and specimen dissections. Learn how body systems work both independently and together to support life. Special conditions and disorders will also be studied as perturbations of the normal anatomy and physiology of human body systems.

Afternoon Seminar: Sessions 2 & 3

Explore fundamental business principles and how they are applied in today’s marketplace. Learn what a business plan is and the importance of developing one to effectively market and finance any new venture. Students work in groups to develop product ideas.

Morning Seminar: Sessions 1, 2, & 3 Afternoon Seminar: Sessions 2 & 3

Gain an introduction to the science of medicinal chemistry through lecture and laboratory experiments, with a focus on the mechanisms of action of drugs and other biologically active compounds. Experiments focus on detection, isolation, and purification of these compounds from drugs and natural sources. You will also have the opportunity to synthesize the active ingredients of an over-the-counter painkiller. The laboratory portion of the course introduces students to important techniques and procedures commonly used in medicinal, organic, and biochemistry laboratories. This is an introductory-level seminar.

Morning Seminar: Sessions 1, 2, & 3

This seminar provides an overview of computer science concepts and teaches basic programming skills. Learn about algorithms, variables and expressions, input and output, if-else statements, for and while loops, functions and parameters, and simple data structures. The history of computer science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer networking, and computer-human interaction are covered. You will work in groups to code in two programming languages, Scratch and Java, and will choose one language to use for a final project.

Morning Seminar: Session 2 Afternoon Seminar: Sessions 1, 2, & 3

You will have the opportunity to study and write poetry, fiction, and screenplays, with the end goal of creating a varied, original writing portfolio. Together we will read and analyze both classic and contemporary literature, respond to diverse prompts, meet acclaimed authors, and rigorously workshop each other’s writing.

The seminar explores the role of corrections and the impact of incarceration in America. Through case studies, films, presentations, and discussions, consider topics such as correctional theory, mass incarceration, and strategies for successful rehabilitation of offenders.

This seminar examines the principles of economic behavior of individuals and firms. Through class experiments, you will become familiar with the theory of consumer choice as well as the strategic behavior of individuals and firms. By the end of the seminar, you will be able to use game theory to create a model of strategic decision making and find the predicted outcome of a game.

Afternoon Seminar: Sessions 1, 2, & 3

Learn engineering methods through topical challenges provided by the Smart Lighting Center. Investigate and experiment with tools and technologies used in the development of novel LED lighting, including its adaptation to applications such as visual light communication.

Morning Seminar: Sessions 2 & 3

Topic for summer 2024: The Journey in Literature & Film. Through seminar discussions, close reading, and film screenings, this seminar offered by BU’s Core Curriculum engages with works by authors that emphasize narratives of the journey both externally (environmental) and internally (psychological). The seminar encourages close reading at a university level, self-reflection, and critical observation of the journey narrative. A creative project based on the readings and the films will conclude the two weeks.

The goal of this seminar is to give you a basic understanding of the causes, pathology, and cures of human infectious diseases by engaging in lectures and conducting experiments. Specific diseases such as influenza, SARS, AIDS, and cancer are used to illustrate the mechanisms of human disease. The laboratory component of this seminar functions as an introductory microbiology lab that allows you to study the morphological and physiological characteristics of microorganisms.

This seminar analyzes in depth several United States foreign policy case studies by considering structural, politico-bureaucratic, and socioeconomic factors. Students work in groups and participate in class debates to better understand the intricacies of decision making in resolving international conflict situations.

This seminar examines various aspects of journalism, from print and newsreels to television and the internet, and culminates with the presentation of an original reporting project. Through lectures and practical exercises, you will learn concepts such as objective versus subjective reporting, features, reviews, ethics, and commentary. Class time is spent learning the histories of print and electronic media, studying the differences between the two formats, and presenting your work.  

Receive an introduction to the United States court system. Learn to read, interpret, and brief a court opinion as well as discuss the importance and effect of precedent under the common law. You will have the opportunity to sample the law school experience, gain fluency in legal vocabulary and procedures, and engage in mock adjudication sessions.

Learn about advertising, public relations, journalism, film, and television. Classes focus on the history, current trends, and future of these media in America. You will work in groups on communication-related projects such as the advertising pitch, film analysis, news reporting, and television and print advertising.

Learn how to translate the latest nutrition guidelines into appealing food choices for health promotion and disease prevention. Explore nutrition basics including carbohydrate, protein, fat, calories, vitamins, and minerals, as well as nutrition preferences such as vegetarianism. You will calculate unique nutrition needs for individualized meal planning and develop skills and strategies to implement a healthy lifestyle through interactive sessions.

Learn persuasive methods for expressing your ideas. Write convincing essays with an emphasis on research techniques, including the location, evaluation, and synthesis of secondary sources. Explore the special impact of evidence on persuasion as you develop core skills—analysis, argumentation, and sources used for academic writing.

Afternoon Seminar: Session 2

Topic for summer 2024: Great Debates. During our two weeks together, we will confront some of the great debates in the history of philosophy. We will address such questions as: Do we know anything? Is there free will? What makes us morally responsible for our choices? Does life have any meaning? Is it possible for a computer to become capable of human-like consciousness? Through engaging in great debates, we will hope to understand something about the nature of philosophy, including why and how we should go about doing it.

You will learn the technical and aesthetic possibilities available when working in digital photography. Through a series of sequential assignments, you will explore the “digital darkroom” using digital imaging software and then output a portfolio of printed images. This course introduces the basic tools, techniques, and concepts of photographic media. Emphasis is placed on composition, narrative, and use of natural light. Each student must be equipped with a digital SLR camera with manual features.

Through drawing and painting, this seminar offers you an opportunity to work from observation and memory while exploring the use of representation, color, and abstraction to capture feeling and meaning. On-site drawing experiences at locations around the city such as a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts provide inspiration for students. No previous experience required.

A Day in the Life

What's it really like to be a Summer Challenge student?

Now accepting applications.

Check out our answers to commonly asked questions.

BU Creative Writing

for writers at Boston University and beyond

• Contributors

The Creative Writing Department’s Summer Class Offerings Are Here!

March 21, 2022 at 12:25 PM

It’s that time of year again — summer course listings have gone live! We have plenty of fantastic courses to offer — including a completely new, interdisciplinary class — and this summer is the perfect time to join us in the study and practice of Creative Writing! All Boston University Summer Term courses will be held on-campus and are open to more than just BU students — in addition to those already enrolled at BU, visiting domestic and international students, high school students, as well as adults and professionals, are welcome to register!

The department is running four sections of CAS EN 202 (“Introduction to Creative Writing”) this summer, and each of our wonderful instructors will bring a different twist to the class! In the first summer session, section A2 will be taught by program administrator and poet Annaka Saari, who often infuses her syllabi with multimedia content; in particular, she is fascinated with the overlap between film and poetry). Section A1 will be taught by current fiction student, graphic novelist, and comic artist Jess Ruliffson. In the second summer session, section B1 will be taught by current fiction student and journalist Melkon Charchoglyan, while section B2 will be taught by current poetry student and Favorite Poem Project content creator Nate Miller. All sections of this course will center around the writing workshop and will allow students to create original work while receiving feedback from their peers and instructor.

Taught by award-winning poet and editor Lisa Hiton, CAS EN 304 (“The Writing of Poetry”) will allow students to dedicate themselves to studying the craft of poetry. Students will learn to read poems closely, with their attention focused on the craft elements of the work, and will be encouraged to apply what they learn to their own work. Students will receive feedback on their original poetry from their instructor and peers in the workshop environment.

CAS EN 305 (“The Writing of Fiction”)  is designed for students who wish to immerse themselves in the study of fiction. Taught by fiction writer Nayereh Doosti, this is a wonderful opportunity for students to learn from great works of fiction what they might apply to their own work. Students will learn to read like writers (that is, with an eye towards how stories are made) and will receive feedback on their own creative work from their instructor and peers in the workshop environment.

Our new course, CAS EN 549 (“Interdisciplinary Studies in Creative Writing: The Writer as Historian”) promises to indulge the curiosities of those interested in History, Creative Writing, or the overlaps and differences that exist between these fields. In this workshop-based course, students should expect to engage with both creative and historical readings, and some historical and historiographical lectures may be given. In engaging with this variety of instructional material, students will be asked to consider the ethical implications of infusing creative works with details taken from the pages of history.  Unlike our other course offerings, this class does require an application ; see the poster above, or contact program administrator Annaka Saari at [email protected], for details about the application process.

Among all of these classes, there should be something for everyone! Email program administrator Annaka Saari at [email protected] with any questions you may have and feel free to read more about our course offerings on the Summer Term website.

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Best Summer Programs in Boston – 2024

April 10, 2024

Boston: home to die-hard Red Sox devotees, the USS Constitution , dropped r’s, and the Freedom Trail. You can also throw a rock in any direction and hit a highly selective college, including Harvard, MIT, Tufts, and Boston University. Founded in 1630, Boston is steeped in history, featuring many prominent American Revolution-era sites such as the Old North Church and the Bunker Hill Monument. As such, if you’re lucky enough to earn a spot at a Boston summer program, there’s no chance you’ll run out of things to do, especially with a solid public transportation system at your disposal. Just don’t wear Yankees apparel within a five-mile radius of Fenway on game day, ask anyone to say “park the car in Harvard yard,” or neglect to budget plenty of line-waiting time at Mike’s Pastry (yes, it’s worth it).

Ready to pack your bags for the Bay State? Keep scrolling to view our best Boston summer programs for high school students:

1)  Boston University High School Summer Programs

• Location : Boston, MA
• Residential?: All have residential or commuter options except for Summer Challenge, which is either residential or online.
• Program Length: Between one and six weeks
• Cost: Summer Preview : $1,725 + room & board; Summer Challenge : $4,700; High School Honors: $6,360 + room & board; Academic Immersion : $5,212 + room & board; RISE : $5,350 + room & board.
• Eligibility: Summer Preview: rising eighth graders, freshmen, and sophomores; Summer Challenge: rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors; High School Honors : rising juniors and seniors; Academic Immersion: rising juniors and seniors; RISE : rising seniors.
• Application Deadline: All are rolling except High School Honors (May) and RISE (February).

BU offers a variety of highly respected summer options. Looking for a taste of the college social experience? Rising eighth, ninth, and tenth graders can participate in the week-long Summer Preview program. Hoping to experience college life alongside other high school students? During the Summer Challenge program, students spend two weeks partaking in two seminar courses. For example, these could include Abnormal Psychology, the Chemistry of Medicine, and Persuasive Writing. Want to earn college credit? The High School Honors program, a six-week intensive where students take classes alongside BU undergrads, might be up your alley.

In addition, BU offers Academic Immersion , which is a three-week deep dive into either psychology, medicine, creative writing, or business. And last but certainly not least is RISE , a renowned Boston summer program. RISE–Research in Science and Engineering–is a six-week program where students conduct laboratory research alongside BU faculty.

Although all Boston University high school summer programs have an application process, differing materials are required. For example, Summer Preview requires a personal statement and transcripts while RISE requires essays, recommendations, test scores, and transcripts.

2) Northeastern Accelerate Pre-College Programs

• Residential?: Residential
• Program Length: Two weeks
• Cost: $6,695
• Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors
• Application Deadline: Rolling

Northeastern offers immersive, experiential summer programs for high schoolers, taught by NU faculty. At this time, they offer 12 two-week programs in language, writing, bioengineering, cybersecurity, drug discovery, engineering, ethics, entrepreneurship, physics, gaming, and health professions. Programs feature a combination of learning and hands-on experience. For example, in Drug Discovery to Clinical Care program, students learn about the life cycle of medications, gain experience in pharmaceutical and clinical research, visit facilities, and participate in hands-on medication compounding. In general, students can expect to be in class for approximately seven hours per day, with homework and group projects to be completed in the evenings.

Moreover, all students lives in residence halls on Northeastern’s campus, eat at Northeastern’s dining facilities, and have plenty of opportunities to explore campus. There is also plenty of social programming and activities, both on campus and within Boston’s many vibrant neighborhoods.

To apply to these Boston summer programs, students must fill out an application, submit a transcript, and craft a short personal statement. They can also submit an optional teacher recommendation.

Boston Summer Programs – Continued

3)  tufts university pre-college programs.

• Location : Medford, MA
• Residential?: Residential and commuter options available.
• Program Length: Two weeks or six weeks
• Cost: Two-week in-person: $4-5,000 (commuter), $5,500-6,500 (residential); six-week in-person: $8,000 (commuter), $11,250 (residential).
• Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors, though some are only open to juniors and seniors.
• Application Deadline: May, though some close earlier due to high application volume.

Tufts offers two-week and six-week Boston summer programs. In short, two-week programs are intensive explorations that typically feature small group work, capstone projects, and portfolio creation. Interested students can choose from such courses as Engineering with Artificial Intelligence, Studio Art, Climate Resilience Institute, and Mini Med School. All two-week programs require an application that includes teacher recommendations and transcripts, though some request additional materials. For example, Mini Med School applicants must be 16+ and have a year of high school biology under their belts. Likewise, prospective Studio Art participants need to submit artwork samples. Finally, some programs have virtual options available.

Tufts Summer Research Program , which is six weeks long, gives participants the opportunity to integrate into an existing research team. Accordingly, they’ll be mentored by Tufts faculty members and postdoctoral scholars. In addition, students have the opportunity to create a poster for a poster session and attend networking events. As such, this program is very competitive. Students must have past research experience, write several essays, and provide teacher recommendations and transcripts. There is also a virtual option available.

4)  Berklee Summer Programs

• Program Length: Three days to five weeks
• Cost: Tuition ranges from $777 for a three-day program to $5,430 for the five-week program. This does not include potential housing.
• Eligibility: Varies, but students typically need to be between the ages of 15 and 20.

At world-renowned Berklee, students can choose from quite a few in-person Boston summer programs. Moreover, many courses are led by Grammy or Tony Award-winning artists. Most are between three days and two weeks long and do not require an audition, though many have prerequisites. For example, Piano/Keyboard Workshop students must have six months of playing experience while Musical Theater Dance Intensive students must possess significant dance training. A sampling of current options includes Bass Workshop, Commercial Dance Intensive, Gospel Performance, and Music Business.

In addition, Berklee’s five-week Aspire option is considered to be one of the crown jewels of music summer programs. All students select one instrument (voice included) and develop their skills through a mix of private instruction, theory, and performance training. This program culminates with a final concert.

5)  Research Science Institute at MIT

• Location : Cambridge, MA
• Residential?: Residential.
• Program Length: Six weeks
• Eligibility: Rising juniors
• Application Deadline: January

RSI–the Research Science Institute–is a six-week summer program for rising high school juniors. As one of the most highly competitive Boston summer programs, RSI only accepts 100 students. However, it is completely cost-free.

Firstly, students take one week of STEM coursework with MIT professors. Then, for the remaining five weeks, students “experience the entire research cycle start to finish.” Consequently, they participate in an intensive, mentored individual project experience that culminates in a written and oral presentation.

The program states that they look for students who are exceptionally academically talented. As such, the application process is quite intensive. PSAT Math scores must be over 740 and ACT Math scores must be over 33. In addition, students must write several essays, acquire teacher recommendations, and provide transcripts.

Final Thoughts – Boston Summer Programs

Whether you’re interested in a hands-on experience at one of Northeastern’s summer programs, an exciting foray into creative writing at the Boston University high school summer programs, or an intensive musical theater experience at Berklee, Boston has something for you.

Looking for more summer program resources? Be sure to check out the following:

• Best Online Summer Programs for High School Students
• Best Summer Programs for High School Students
• Best Summer Programs for Business
• Best Summer Programs for Computer Science
• Best Summer Programs for Law, Political Science, and International Relations
• Best Summer Programs for Performing and Visual Arts
• Best Summer Programs for Pre-Med
• Best Research-Intensive Summer Programs
• Best Summer Programs for STEM
• Best Summer Programs for Writing and Journalism
• Summer Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, boston university summer challenge: should you go.

Extracurriculars

In this guide, I'll be discussing the Boston University Summer Challenge, a summer program for high school students at Boston University.  During the program, students take non-credit college-level courses, live on campus, and explore all that BU and Boston have to offer.

While you can read about this program on the BU Summer Challenge website , the information available is somewhat spotty and what is there can be difficult to dissect. For this reason, I spoke to the program coordinators and gathered everything you need to know about the program into this easy-to-read guide. I’ve created a Table of Contents so you can find the specific info you need, but I suggest reading the entire article in order:

• What Is the BU Summer Challenge? What Do You Do?
• Why Should You Attend?
• How To Apply and Application Requirements
• How Much Does It Cost?
• Tips on How to Get In  

Featured Image:   Via  Wikipedia

What Is the Boston University Summer Challenge? What Activities Do Participants Do?

The Boston University Summer Challenge is a two-week program for rising high school sophomore, juniors, and seniors that offers a preview of college life.  During each of the three summer sessions, between 100 and 300 high school take two non-credit seminars and live on BU’s campus in the dorms. 

As a participant, you choose a morning seminar and afternoon seminar . In between your morning and afternoon seminars, you have lunch in one of BU's dining halls. After your afternoon seminar and on weekends, you participate in organized social activities such as exploring areas of Boston, shopping, seeing improv shows, and more . The exact social programming will vary from year to year.

You also have plenty of free time to do your seminar assignments, explore Boston on your own, and explore BU's campus (you'll have free access to the libraries and can  purchase a short-term membership to Boston University's Fitness & Recreation Center ). 

In your seminars, you'll be expected to attend lectures, engage in discussions, attend field trips, and complete individual work, group work, and project-based assignments . The seminars have small class sizes (10 to 24 students)  to ensure that you get sufficient attention from your experienced college instructors as you are challenged with the college-level material taught in your seminar. Each seminar ends with a final in-class presentation. At the end of the summer (typically, in August/September), a certificate of completion and letters of evaluation from both seminar instructors will be sent to you.

Listed below are the seminars that were offered in Summer 2015. (Summer 2016 seminars have not yet been announced.)  

Morning Seminars

• Abnormal Psychology
• Business: From the Ground Up
• Chemistry of Medicine
• Creative Writing
• Electrical Engineering
• The History of Boston
• International Politics
• Visual Arts

Afternoon Seminars

• Communication
• Computer Science
• Infectious Diseases
• Persuasive Writing
• Photography

Who’s Eligible for the BU Summer Challenge Program?

The basic application requirements for all applicants are:

• Be a rising high school sophomore, junior, or senior

If you’re an international student, you also must meet the following qualifications:

• Have a valid passport
• Have health insurance

While these are the only requirements needed to apply, there are more qualifications that will help you get in. Read those below in our Tips on How to Get In section. 

What Are the Program Dates for Summer 2016?

The programs dates for Summer 2016 are:

• Session 1: June 19 - July 1, 2016
• Session 2: July 10 - July 22, 2016
• Session 3: July 24 - August 5, 2016

Why Should You Attend the BU Summer Challenge Program?

I’d highly recommend doing the Boston University Summer Challenge if you can afford it and it works in your summer schedule. I participated in a similar program at UCLA, and the program helped me figure out whether I was interested in attending UCLA (which I found out I wasn’t) and what kind of coursework I wanted to pursue. I’ve broken down the pros and cons of attending the program below.

Pros of BU Summer Challenge

Test out BU to see if it’s the right college for you. 

Take non-credit college courses  to help figure out what you might be interested in majoring in (you could find out you hate art and want to study biology or vice versa). I t's better to figure this out in high school rather than halfway through college when you've already spent a lot of time and money on classes you ended up not liking.

Receive two letters of evaluation  (one from each of your seminar teachers) at the end of the program, which could be used as supplementary letters of recommendation for college.

As a residential student for two weeks, you get to test out living away from home for the first time. My friends and I who did the UCLA summer program struggled a lot less with homesickness once we started college than our peers.

Have a college program on your resume for your college applications.

While there is no guarantee of admissions and no guarantee that participating will better your chances of admission, the BU admissions office likes to see that you’ve shown a significant interest in the university. Doing this program will show them your interest.

Cons of BU Summer Challenge

Expensive (I discuss the exact cost below). 

You can't get college credit while some similar programs such as the Emory Pre-College Program do offer classes for credit.

No financial aid available while at some other programs such as the Emory Pre-College Program, there is financial aid available. 

How to Apply and Application Requirements

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis beginning in the January before the summer session.  You typically receive a response via email within three weeks of submitting your application. The application deadline for summer 2016 has not yet been posted. It will be posted on the BU Summer Challenge website after December 15th.   However, as the website says, students who apply earlier " are more likely to receive the session and seminar selections of their choice, " so you should submit your application ASAP. 

To apply, you must:

Pay a $50 non-refundable application fee paid by credit card.

Complete an online application that includes a 500 - 750-word personal statement describing why you want to attend the BU Summer Challenge Program.

Email a copy of your complete high school transcript , including your fall grades, to [email protected].

Additionally, international students must:

Complete an international student form.

Submit a copy of your passport.

If the primary language of instruction at your high school is not English, you will likely be asked to provide proof of proficiency such as a TOEFL score (though this is on a case by case basis).

How Much Does BU Summer Challenge Cost?

The fee for the BU Summer Challenge includes tuition, housing, and all meals in the dining hall. It also includes textbooks and all sponsored activities during the two-week program.  The program cost for the BU Summer Challenge in 2015 was $3730.  This may be changing for Summer 2016, but it hasn’t yet been announced. Additionally, as I mentioned earlier, there is a $50 non-refundable application fee (which will stay the same in 2016).

Is There Financial Aid?

Unfortunately, there is no financial aid available for this program. However, I have some advice for quick ways to raise money if you're hoping to attend but can't afford tuition: 

• Try using an online crowdfunding platform such as Go Ennounce (which is specifically for students looking to fundraise), Go Fund Me , or IndieGoGo . 
• Write letters  to friends, family, employers, local businesses and churches asking for support.
• Reach out to civic organizations in your area , such as Rotary and Kiwanis, to see if they could offer a scholarship.

3 Tips on Fundraising Your BU Summer Challenge Tuition  

Tip #1: When you write your explanation on the crowdfunding platform, write your letters to the community, or reach out to civic organizations, make sure you share your personal story and explain why the BU Summer Challenge program is important to you and will help you achieve your future goals. This explanation should be similar to your personal statement for the program (which, as I said above, asks you to describe  why you want to attend the BU Summer Challenge Program). 

Tip #2: Share your fundraising campaign on social media and ask your friends and family to share your campaign on their social media if they're unable to donate. 

Tip #3: Write a thank you note for every donation you receive. 

Tips on How to Get Accepted

If you’re hoping to attend the Boston University Summer Challenge, your high school transcript and personal statement need to show you off in a positive light.

While there is no specific GPA required for admission, the program coordinators said they preferred applicants with at least a 3.0 unweighted GPA.  To have the best shot of being accepted, you should try to get your unweighted GPA at or above a 3.0. While you may not have a lot of time before applying, there are ways to raise your GPA fast.

The BU Summer Challenge Program does not tell the public its acceptance rate, but the program website says they look for " motivated high school students who are taking a college preparatory curriculum. Your high school transcript and personal statement are both taken into account when admission decisions are made." Additionally, I spoke to the program coordinators who indicated that most students with a 3.0 or higher are accepted into the program. 

For your personal statement, make sure you show off your personality, explain your love for BU, and explain why you want to be a part of the Summer Challenge. If you need help writing the personal statement, read our other great guide with tips on writing a personal statement.

What’s Next?

Learn about other pre-college programs such as the Emory Pre-College Program . 

Not sure where you want to go to college? Learn how to do college research right . 

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For Current Students

The English major and minor at Boston College build fundamental skills in close reading, literary analysis, and critical thinking through a wide range of courses. English students study major developments in British, American, anglophone, and multicultural literatures, exploring essential human issues through multiple periods, cultures, and approaches.

Advising Information

At a Glance

Intellectual foundations.

The Literature Core and First-Year Writing Seminar provide a robust foundation for future study in the liberal arts.

First-Year Courses

Customizable Programs

Enjoy the freedom to shape a program suited to your intellectual interests while sharpening your critical thinking, analysis, argumentation, and articulation.

Personalized Advising

English majors and minors are mentored by scholars and writers who are leaders in the contemporary study of literature.

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

The English department is deeply engaged with scholarship in other departments. Many English majors minor in other disciplines, while students from other departments often choose to minor in English. In addition, English is home to a number of thriving interdisciplinary concentrations, including American Studies, Asian American Studies, Creative Writing, Irish Studies, Journalism, and the Medical Humanities.

Interdisciplinary Programs

Why Major in English?

"I chose BC’s English Program because of the robust course offerings and the relevancy of the professors. The diversity in specialties, along with the contemporary work being produced, was invaluable to me as a creative."

Why Study English?

English Language Learning (ELL)

The Program for English Language Learning (ELL) supports undergraduate students from linguistically diverse backgrounds in their mastery of English. During their first year, students can take a linked sequence of two English courses that fulfill core requirements. Students place into the sequence after completing the English language assessment during the summer before their first year.

Undergraduate Sequence

The fall ENGL 1009 First Year Writing Seminar for ELL (ENGL 1009) provides students with important linguistic support to meet the rhetorical and grammatical challenges they face in writing. 

The spring Literature Core for ELL (ENGL 1079) builds on the skills learned in ENGL 1009 and provides students the opportunity to explore literature in a small group setting (limited to 15) as they continue to refine their English writing skills.

ELL Writing Specialist Program

For those students in ENGL 1009 and 1079 sections in need of individualized language support, the ELL Writing Specialist Program pairs students with a trained specialist during the semester. Each student meets weekly with her specialist to discuss ongoing writing assignments. (Students are referred to the program by their instructors.)

Interested in ELL courses? 

Contact Lynne Anderson

“What I love most about the English program is the kindness I have received from everyone here. At first, I doubted whether I would perform well, since I was unconfident about my English. But whenever I met obstacles, there was always someone there to support me. I fall more and more in love with English Literature as I learn more.” 

Yinan Ding '25

“Growing up in a bilingual household made learning English or Spanish completely a difficult task. I enrolled in the English minor because I saw it as a great opportunity to improve my comprehension, but I stayed once I realized there were courses and resources that allowed me to explore how having a background in more than one language can be beneficial.”

Jacob Bojito Ríos '25

English Department Stokes Hall South, 4th floor

617-552-3708