Emerging World Leaders
Course Description
Drawing upon our rich tradition of rigorous inquiry and groundbreaking scholarship, the University of Chicago has long been a global pioneer in advancing knowledge and research. Our students and professors are fearless problem solvers who engage in interdisciplinary thinking with a ferocity that defines our culture as one of the world’s greatest intellectual destinations.
This summer, outstanding students who are eager to learn how interdisciplinary study brings different fields together and gain an insider's view into the capabilities and resources of a top research university are invited to apply.
Through readings, lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, learn from leading faculty across many departments about various topics. Examples from previous years include:
Exploring the College's distinctive Core Curriculum through texts by Sigmund Freud, Judith Butler, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Karl Marx
Drawing on the Chicago Principles of Freedom of Expression and UChicago’s Parrhesia Program for Public Discourse to discuss principles of Public Discourse and Community Engagement
Examining reigning views of the “Other” in our current moment through discussion of Edward Said’s Orientalism
Learning how economists interpret data to answer important causal questions like “What’s the return on investment of a college degree?”
Investigating the transformation of humans through the study of biohackers, genetic engineers, and cyborgs
Become part of a community and make lasting friendships. Through activities with your peers, you will become part of a close-knit community and gain exposure to opportunities that promote academic growth, professional development, and fun!
Bond with peers through interactive House activities led by current UChicago students
Take in amazing downtown architecture and Chicago history on a river boat cruise
Explore UChicago's Institute of the Study of Ancient Cultures and experience our Scav Hunt tradition across campus with fellow participants
This summer, experience UChicago with fellow engaged, idea-driven students from around the world. Learn about cutting-edge research from distinguished faculty, experience world-class resources that will support you as an emerging leader, and discover all that the dynamic city of Chicago has to offer!
Program Contact: All questions should be directed to Alexandria Waters at awaters@uchicago.edu.
Course Criteria
Eligibility: Current 10th or 11th grade students, who are at least 15 years old and are enrolled in a high school outside of the U.S., are invited to apply. Students whose academic years end in November or December, are currently in their final year of high school, and will not have graduated by Summer 2025, are eligible for this program. Students applying from this context should select “11th grade” as their "Current Level of Education" on the application.
Academic Interest
College Preview
Application Materials
A complete application includes a transcript, two short essays, a letter of recommendation, writing sample, application fee, and a submitted parent confirmation. If you are seeking need-based financial aid, you must indicate that in your application before it is submitted. Please refer to the Application Instructions for complete details. Applicants to 1 Week Enrichment may have a counselor or teacher submit a nomination in addition to the required letter of recommendation.
Additional Materials: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 would you 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)
Review the Application Instructions for more detailed information.
Cost
$2,500
Significant financial support is available for these programs, and any student can apply for aid. In addition, students applying only to 1 Week Enrichment programs, and whose household income is $120,000 or below, are eligible for the following financial support, as available:
- Household income at or below $120,000 USD: Program fee is waived (e.g., no cost to the student, exclusive of travel expenses).
- Household income at or below $65,000 USD: Program fee is waived + domestic roundtrip travel expenses covered (e.g., no cost to the student, inclusive of travel expenses for domestic students).