Abnormal Psychology at B.U.
Are you interested in learning more about the fascinating world of psychology? Boston University runs a two-week summer program for high school students that provides an engaging look at the world of abnormal psychology. It’s a great way to experience life on campus in a fabulous college town, and to get a light introduction to an engaging and popular subject.
“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.”
How do I get started? Click here.
How do I expand this narrative arc?
take a psychology course at your high school if you are fortunate enough to be at one where the class is offered;
do an independent study (or even research project) with a teacher or supervising professional, ideally expanding on what you learned in your BU summer program;
if BU is too much of a commitment, consider a shorter program called Camp Psych, which is situated at Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania.
IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT SUMMER PROGRAMS: College admissions officers are very adept at identifying “resume padders”: expensive, one-off programs paid for by your parents which do not mesh with your narrative arc. Therefore, make sure any summer program or course you consider falls into one (or more) of these four buckets:
Highly selective/competitive
Totally unique + linked to your narrative arc
Evidence of adulthood (long hours, multi-year commitment or simply hard work)
A jumping off point or expansion for an authentic narrative arc.
If none of the above apply, a program could still have value to you if it allows you to test a potential interest. However, if it does not end up being a jumping off point for further interests, then you may not want to mention it in your high school resume