Program Overview

  "The counselors were awesome and it was so great  how much they went above and beyond the expectations I had of them."
-- past CEW Participant


Who can attend?

Saint Michael’s College Exploration Week is open to high school students who have completed at least their first year of high school. Enrollment is kept low so that we can ensure a personalized experience for each student.

What can I learn?  Who is teaching?

You will take a five-day course in an academic subject of your choice. Each topic is taught by an outstanding faculty member of Saint Michael’s College. You'll also explore the outdoors and Greater Burlington's cultural offerings.

Will this experience help me when I apply to college?

Absolutely. Although you won’t be earning academic credit, you will be gaining experience that will show the colleges to which you apply that you are interested in a certain academic area and are excited and motivated about attending college. One evening session is dedicated to teaching you more about the college application process.

What will my days be like?

You’ll choose an academic topic to pursue in the mornings, then, if you like, participate in outdoor activities in the afternoon. Activities include hiking or canoeing, and are offered to explore the best of what Vermont’s Champlain Valley and Green Mountains have to offer.  Afternoons may also be used to attend a presentation on an academic topic given by a member of Saint Michael's nationally-recognized faculty. Or, if you have a particular major in mind, you can meet with faculty from that department to discuss your interests. In the evenings, you can take part in exciting cultural offerings, both on and off campus.

What is it like to stay on campus?

During College Exploration Week, you’ll get a taste of what it’s like to be a first-year college student. You will live in one of our traditional residence halls where first-year students live during the academic year. Male and female students stay on separate floors. Rooms are set up as doubles; you will be in a shared room with two beds, desks, closets and dressers. Buffet meals are served three times a day in our dining room, a short walk from the residence hall. Our residences are staffed by Saint Michael’s College students who are trained resident assistants, with adult program directors in residence to provide guidance and supervision. No alcohol or drugs are permitted anywhere on campus, and smoking is prohibited in all campus buildings.