The Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute (ESSYI) is a two-week, college-level interdisciplinary summer program for talented high-school students entering their junior and senior years. ESSYI introduces students to environmental issues and interdisciplinary techniques for addressing environmental problems. Students make new intellectual and emotional connections as they explore current environmental challenges through scientific, social, economic, philosophical, ethical, and political perspectives. This program is based on a one credit (4 semester hour) course that serves as an introduction to environmental studies.

Sunday July 12, through Saturday July 25, 2020

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Curriculum

Find out more about the incredible ESSYI curriculum, which is taught by 22 faculty members at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. This program is based on a one credit (4 semester hour) course that serves as an introduction to environmental studies.

Request Information

Would you like to receive an ESSYI brochure, information about HWS and application materials? Use this form to request additional information. Learn about the program, ESSYI, and the student experience here at Hobart and William Smith Colleges.

Each year we hire eight HWS college student staff who serve as teaching assistants, resident assistants, and support the student participants throughout the program. You can also learn about the incredible diversity of our teaching faculty.

Here you can explore the profiles and reflections of former students who share their experience at ESSYI. You can also read about our commitment to supporting a diverse student body of participants.

Is ESSYI right for you? It is if you…

• Are passionate about working to address environmental issues

• Tend to view problems and challenges from multiple perspectives

• Want to connect with like-minded students, college students, and faculty

• Enjoy exploring natural areas both intellectually and aesthetically

• Want to explore outdoor environments in ways that are hands-on and intellectually grounded

• Believe that change is possible and want to better understand how you can contribute