The CATALYST Academy, part of the Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program, is a one-week residential summer program designed for rising high school juniors and seniors interested in exploring engineering within the context of an authentic college experience. 

Hosted at Cornell University, CATALYST Academy aims to empower traditionally underrepresented students in STEM by providing exposure to engineering disciplines, career pathways, and the college admissions process. Scholars live on the Cornell campus, attend classes taught by faculty, participate in research projects, and connect with current students and peers from diverse backgrounds. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about CATALYST – from the structure and application process to the benefits of joining! 

How is the CATALYST Academy Structured?

CATALYST Academy is a week-long immersive program focused on engineering and STEM disciplines.

• The program usually takes place in July. 

• Participants stay in Cornell dormitories, providing a full campus living experience.

• Scholars attend daily classes led by Cornell faculty, focusing on specific engineering fields.

• The program includes hands-on research projects, where students work under the guidance of faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates.

• Each participant presents their research findings in a final presentation at the end of the week.

In addition to classes and research, CATALYST Academy offers field sessions and support for navigating the college admissions process.

• The program features nine field sessions that expose students to various engineering majors, providing a broader understanding of potential academic and career paths in STEM.

• Additionally, Cornell Engineering Admissions provides a 10th field session that demystifies the admissions process for students interested in pursuing their post-secondary studies at Cornell.

CATALYST Academy is part of Cornell’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM.

• The program specifically aims to support students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds, low-income families, and those with diverse neurotypes and abilities.

• By creating a safe and inclusive environment, CATALYST Academy builds a community where scholars and mentors inspire, support, and empower one another in their STEM pursuits.

Overall, CATALYST Academy combines rigorous academic exposure with a supportive community, making it a unique and valuable experience for high school students interested in engineering and STEM fields.

Who is eligible for CATALYST Academy?

To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following academic requirements:

• Have a GPA of at least 3.0, with strong math and science performance.

• Be a current high school sophomore or junior.

• Be on track to complete AP Calculus, AP Physics (preferably calculus-based), AP Chemistry, and other rigorous STEM courses.

Additionally, applicants should:

• Have faced barriers to academic progress (educational, socio-cultural, economic, personal, or identity-related).

• Belong to underrepresented groups in STEM (e.g., first-generation college students, racial/ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions).

• Show a commitment to addressing STEM underrepresentation and demonstrate leadership potential.

How much does it cost?

CATALYST Academy costs $1,900, which includes room, board, and research supplies. A $75 non-refundable deposit is required.

Scholarships are available based on demonstrated need. To apply, submit the financial assistance form with your CATALYST Academy application.

Is it prestigious?

While the exact acceptance rate for CATALYST Academy is not publicly available, the program is selective and emphasizes supporting traditionally underrepresented students in STEM fields. Its connection to Cornell University and its focus on providing a genuine college experience adds to its prestige. If you are looking for highly selective and prestigious programs, consider those with extensive funding or research opportunities, as CATALYST Academy is focused on inclusivity and support rather than competitive exclusivity.

How does the application process work?

Applications for CATALYST Academy typically open in January and close towards the end of February. 

To apply, follow these steps:

1. Complete the Application Form

• Submit the form online in one go, as you cannot save and return to it later.

• The form includes an essay with three prompts (250 words each):

• How has your personal journey shaped your interest in STEM/Engineering?

• What are your future goals in STEM/Engineering, and how will CATALYST Academy help you achieve them?

• Share a unique lived experience and how it will contribute to our diverse community. Consider experiences related to educational, socio-cultural, economic, or identity-related barriers, or your commitment to addressing underrepresentation in STEM.

2. Submit Supporting Documents

• After submitting the Application Form, you will be directed to a confirmation page and receive an email. Both will include links to upload your transcript, financial assistance form, and recommender's contact information.

• Ensure these documents are submitted by the application deadline for your application to be considered.

Will this help me get into Cornell?

While participating in CATALYST Academy is a valuable experience, it does not guarantee admission to Cornell University. However, the program can positively impact your application by demonstrating your commitment to STEM and showcasing your ability to thrive in a rigorous academic environment.

Pros of applying to CATALYST Academy

1. Specialized engineering experience: CATALYST Academy provides a focused, week-long exploration of engineering disciplines, offering hands-on research projects and daily classes led by Cornell faculty. This immersive experience helps you gain practical insights into engineering and research.

2. Exposure to Cornell’s campus and resources: Participants live in Cornell dormitories and attend classes on campus, gaining first hand experience of university life and accessing Cornell’s resources. This exposure can help you understand the university’s environment and resources better.

3. Support for underrepresented students: The program prioritizes supporting students from traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. This focus on inclusivity can be particularly beneficial for those who have faced barriers in their academic journey.

4. Comprehensive program structure: The curriculum includes daily classes, research projects, and field sessions that explore various engineering majors, providing a well-rounded introduction to the field and helping you make informed decisions about your future academic and career paths.

5. Networking opportunities: By interacting with Cornell faculty, graduate students, and peers, you have valuable opportunities to build connections that can support your academic and career goals in STEM.

Cons of CATALYST Academy

1. Program costs: While the program offers scholarships, the associated costs of tuition, room, and board can be a barrier for some students. It is important to explore financial aid options early in the application process.

2. Limited availability: With the program accepting a limited number of participants each year, not all interested students will be able to attend. The selective nature of the program means that applying early and submitting a strong application is crucial.

3. Short duration: As a one-week program, CATALYST Academy offers only a brief introduction to engineering. While it provides valuable exposure, students seeking a more in-depth experience may need to explore additional programs or internships.

Should You Apply? – Our Review

CATALYST Academy at Cornell presents an exciting opportunity for high school juniors and seniors interested in engineering, especially those from underrepresented groups in STEM. But is it worth applying to?

On one hand, CATALYST Academy offers a unique blend of academic rigor, hands-on research, and an immersive college experience at a prestigious institution. The program’s focus on supporting underrepresented students in STEM provides an enriching environment to explore engineering. It’s a great chance to gain valuable experience, work with top-notch faculty, and benefit from the resources of a renowned university.

On the other hand, the competitive nature of the program means that not all applicants will be admitted, and financial considerations may play a role. While the experience can be transformative and provide a significant boost to your academic and career path, it’s important to be aware of the selectivity and costs involved.

In summary, CATALYST Academy offers substantial benefits for those looking to advance in engineering and gain a college-level experience. The decision to apply should be based on your readiness to engage with a competitive program and your ability to leverage the experience for future academic and career goals.

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