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Writer's pictureLydia Park

Columbia University's S PREP for Middle School Students - 8 Reasons to Apply

Participating in pre-college programs can boost a student's profile when applying to college programs in a specific field. These programs provide early exposure to academic rigor, foster intellectual curiosity, and offer a platform for students to explore potential career paths. Columbia University's State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S PREP) is a solid example of such an initiative, aimed at middle and high school students interested in pursuing careers in medicine or related STEM fields.


What is S PREP?

The State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S PREP) at Columbia University is a rigorous academic enrichment program designed for students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in STEM. This program aims to prepare students for competitive high school and college environments, especially for those who want to pursue careers in medicine and STEM careers.


Students admitted to S-PREP are eligible to apply for summer research programs for high school students run by the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. Therefore, participating in this program can be a gateway to many different opportunities in research and science. 


Is S PREP prestigious?

S PREP is indeed a prestigious program, largely due to its affiliation with Columbia University, one of the Ivy League colleges. The program is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and the high standards it sets for its participants. While specific acceptance rates or the exact number of students accepted annually are not publicly disclosed, the program's selective nature is evident from its comprehensive application process, which includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The competitive selection ensures that only the most dedicated and promising students are admitted, further enhancing the program's reputation and the value it adds to its participants' academic profiles.


What is the structure of S PREP?

S PREP is structured to fit within the academic year, with sessions held on Saturdays to accommodate students' regular school schedules, and the program spans two sessions throughout the year. This setup ensures that students can fully engage with the program without compromising their weekday academic responsibilities. The sessions are as follows:

  • Summer Session: Classes are held Monday through Friday (10 am - 2 pm) in the month of July

  • Academic Year: Classes are held on Saturdays (9 am - 3 pm) from October to May


The curriculum includes lectures, laboratory sessions, and group activities that reinforce the material taught in class. This blend of theoretical and practical learning helps students grasp complex concepts more effectively. Additionally, the program's design promotes collaborative learning and peer interaction, which enhances the overall educational experience and fosters a supportive community of aspiring STEM professionals.


How much does S PREP cost?

S PREP is a free program – so students are not expected to pay for tuition or room and board fees. This is especially helpful for families who demonstrate financial need. 


What topics are covered in the S PREP curriculum? 

The curriculum includes a wide range of subjects such as Anatomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Brain and Cognitive Science, and various levels of Mathematics, including Algebra, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Statistics. Additionally, the program provides essential preparatory courses for standardized tests like the PSAT and SAT, ensuring that students are well-equipped for college admissions processes.


Beyond core academic subjects, S PREP emphasizes practical and experiential learning through laboratory sessions and hands-on projects. The program also incorporates college preparation and career development workshops, which include field trips and college tours, further enriching the students' educational experience. This blend of rigorous academics, practical experience, and college preparation makes S PREP a highly beneficial program for aspiring STEM students.


What does a typical day in S PREP look like? 

A typical day at Columbia University's S PREP program is structured to maximize both learning and engagement for its participants. The day usually begins with a lecture session, where students dive into subjects such as biology, chemistry, or mathematics. These lectures are designed to provide a strong theoretical foundation in the respective topics. Following the lectures, students move on to laboratory sessions, where they have the opportunity to apply what they've learned through hands-on experiments and projects. These practical experiences are crucial for reinforcing theoretical knowledge and developing scientific skills.


In addition to lectures and lab work, the program includes group activities and collaborative projects. These sessions encourage teamwork and peer learning, allowing students to discuss and solve problems together. Throughout the day, there are also opportunities for students to participate in college preparation and career development workshops. These workshops cover a range of topics, including SAT preparation, college essay writing, and career exploration in STEM fields. The program also incorporates breaks and lunch periods, ensuring that students have time to relax and socialize with their peers​​.


Overall, the daily schedule at S PREP is designed to be intensive yet balanced, providing a mix of rigorous academic instruction, practical lab work, and valuable preparatory activities, all within a supportive and collaborative environment.


Who is eligible for S PREP, and how do I apply?

To be eligible for S PREP, students must be in grades 7 through 12 and demonstrate a strong interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In addition, they must have a maintenance of an 80% grade average particularly in math and science, the ability to commit to the program schedule, and conduct him/her/themselves in a manner conducive to their own learning and to the learning of others. 


Applying to S PREP involves several steps. Interested students need to complete an application form, which includes providing academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The personal statement should articulate the student’s interest in STEM, their career aspirations, and how participation in S PREP would benefit their academic and professional development. Additionally, students may be required to attend an interview as part of the selection process.


For the academic year session, applications are typically due in early fall, around mid-September. This allows time for the selection process to be completed before the program starts in October. The summer session, which runs during July, has a separate application deadline in the spring, usually by the end of April. It is essential for applicants to check the exact dates on the S PREP website as these deadlines can vary slightly each year.


8 Reasons to Apply

Now that we know more about the program, let’s dive into 8 key reasons why you should apply:


1. You will receive a rigorous education in math and science.

S PREP offers an extensive curriculum covering subjects like Anatomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and various levels of Mathematics. This rigorous academic foundation prepares students for advanced studies and competitive college environments. The program’s focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of these crucial subjects.


2. You will gain hands-on experience through laboratory sessions.

The program emphasizes experiential learning with numerous lab sessions where students can apply theoretical concepts. These hands-on projects help reinforce classroom lessons, allowing students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Engaging in real-world scientific experiments fosters a deeper appreciation and understanding of the scientific method and its applications.


3. You will receive personalized college preparation and career development guidance.

S PREP includes workshops on SAT preparation, college essay writing, and navigating the college application process. These sessions are designed to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in college admissions. Additionally, career development workshops help students explore various STEM careers, providing insights into different professional paths and the steps required to pursue them​.


4. You will have the opportunity to participate in prestigious research programs.

S PREP students can apply for summer research programs with the Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. These programs offer valuable research experience in neuroscience and cancer biology, respectively. Participation in these prestigious programs can significantly enhance a student’s academic profile and provide a head start in scientific research​.


5. You will build a strong network of like-minded peers and mentors.

S PREP fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can connect with peers who share similar interests and aspirations. This network can provide support and motivation throughout the academic journey. Additionally, students have access to mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and encouragement as they navigate their educational and career paths.


6. You will enhance your college application with prestigious program participation.

Being part of a selective program affiliated with Columbia University, an Ivy League institution, adds significant value to your college application. Participation in S PREP demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence and a proactive approach to education. This can make you a more attractive candidate to top colleges and universities​.


7. You will develop essential skills for academic and professional success.

Beyond academic knowledge, S PREP helps students develop skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. These skills are essential for success in both higher education and future careers. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges in their academic and professional lives.


8. You will benefit from a free, high-quality educational program.

S PREP is offered at no cost to participants, making it accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds. This removes financial barriers and provides equal opportunities for all students to receive high-quality education and preparatory experiences. The program’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all eligible students can benefit from its offerings without the burden of tuition fees​.


Our Thoughts

Columbia University's S PREP stands out as an exceptional opportunity for middle school students passionate about STEM and medical fields. The program's rigorous curriculum, hands-on laboratory experiences, and comprehensive college preparation workshops provide a robust foundation for academic and professional success. Additionally, the program's affiliation with Columbia University adds significant prestige, enhancing students' college applications. Overall, S PREP offers invaluable resources and opportunities, making it a highly recommended program for aspiring STEM students.



One other option – Lumiere Research Scholar Program

If you are interested in doing university-level research in STEM or other subjects, which can become a topic to talk about in your college application, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.


Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.


Image Source: Columbia University logo

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