 Six week (now cut to four weeks) instructional program begun in 1964 for the state’s most talented students  A chance for in depth study of academic or artistic fields of interest and be taught by excellent high school and college instructors  An opportunity practice interpersonal skills living with peers on a Georgia college campus  Participation paid for by the state, including each student’s tuition, room, board, and instructional supplies

 They are the very top students at this school in their area of study, and are well-rounded, high achieving students across the board.  Nominees take the most challenging courses in their area of nomination and they do well.  Nominees are passionate about their area of study and participate in various extracurricular activities in that area.

 Your teacher has recognized you as an exceptionally talented student.  Nomination in more than one area means decision-making, but multiple opportunities too!  Nomination is a feather in your cap but also a big commitment to a lengthy process.  You are entering a competition among the smartest, most talented high school students in the state of Georgia for limited spaces in the state’s most prestigious summer program.

 What happens next?  Completion of application  Revision of application with faculty  School interviews  Teacher recommendation  County interviews  State interviews

 Quality of application  Evidence of commitment to area of nomination (i.e. extra-curricular activities)  Academic performance and PSAT scores  Additional nominations  Teacher recommendation  Performance in interviews (and subject specific requirements such as writing samples, portfolios, resumes, etc.)

 You never get a second chance to make a first impression!  Develop your ideas thoroughly ▪ Thorough does NOT mean a few sentences. Each response must be considered an independent composition /essay.  List all of your accomplishments  Organize and proofread  Get advice and feedback from those you trust

 Describe your interest in area.  Describe what you have done beyond normal class work.  Explain why you should be selected.  Have you decided on a career? Elaborate.  Make any statement supporting your nomination, not covered elsewhere.

 September 2 nd : Teacher nominations by are due.  September 9 th : Student nomination packets are due back.  September 27 th : School interviews  First week of October: Nomination materials due to county.  October: County interviews.  Late January and February: State interviews.  Late March: The finalists are announced.

 Check out the GA Department of Education’s website for students and parents:  ailyBlog?OpenNavigator ailyBlog?OpenNavigator  Explore the website that 2009’s computer science majors created:   Watch the videos:  