Stanford Summer Arts
“Are you interested in arts and keen to pursue a rigorous summer academic program? Stanford University may be known first and foremost for its science and tech offerings but it also shines in fields across the arts. Live on campus during one of two three-week programs and take courses that illuminate the many connections between the arts and other fields of study. Courses are as varied and interdisciplinary as Arts and Activism, Music and Technology, Climate Fictions on Film and more. Courses include lectures, workshops and individual and team projects. No arts background is required.
The Stanford Summer Arts Institute is a three-week, residential enrichment program for students interested in exploring the arts, creating interdisciplinary connections across music, art, design, and film.”
How do I get started? Go to their website and apply.
How to expand on this narrative art? Make sure to add other interdisciplinary arts projects to your resume such as the following:
The Cooper Union Music and Math summer program.
Attend the Tisch Summer High School Filmmaker workshop.
If combing art and community activism are part of your narrative arc, think about expanding into one of these areas:
Project Backboard - in which you turn a neighborhood basketball court into a public work of art.
Storm Drain Art - in which you run an environmental awareness art competition, the winner of which can paint a design on a local storm drain.
School Photographer - in which you land a gig as the official events photographer for your school
Also, consider a film or TV related impact project in your community such as a film club for the elderly or children in need.
HOT TIP: This is a prestigious course with high standards for entry. Unlike many summer programs on college campuses this program is relatively hard to get into and will challenge you once you’ve been admitted. You could also end up with great material for a portfolio. The payoff could be huge if it is a jumping off point for an authentic narrative arc. Although some summer programs that are easier to get into can be perceived as “Pay To Play” by college admissions officers, this one is selective enough that it should avoid creating that perception.