CATALYST Academy

2025 Program Dates: July 13 – 19, 2025

 

Applications opening in December 2024.

 

**Please note that the High School Outreach Program can only accept applications from those who are currently residing and attending high school in the United States or a US territory. You do not have to be a US citizen or permanent resident to apply.**

CATALYST Academy is a branch of the Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program. It is a one-week residential program for rising high school juniors and seniors who desire to learn about engineering in the context of an authentic college experience. It is designed to develop literacy around engineering as a major course of study, showcase career and graduate school pathways in engineering, and demystify the college admissions process.

Scholars spend a week on the Cornell campus, living in dormitories, and networking with current Cornell Engineering students, faculty, and fellow participants from across the country. Participants attend daily classes in one area of study led by a Cornell Engineering faculty member. They work cooperatively under the supervision of faculty, graduate students, and undergraduate students to execute and present a research project. Scholars also participate in nine field sessions across our engineering majors, as well as a field session focused on the admissions process.

The Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program is focused on the support and empowerment of traditionally excluded populations in STEM, including (but not limited to) the areas of gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, neurotype and ability. Our academies provide a safe environment to build a community of peers and mentors who empower one another to be confident in their exploration of STEM.

CATALYST Academy is open to students of all identities who meet the eligibility criteria.  We strongly encourage all interested students to apply!

 

Cornell Engineering High School Outreach Program Supporters

We thank the following Cornell Alumni donors for their generous support.

Han-Yang Lo ’98
Elaine Tam ’98
Harvey Willensky ’71 and Margie Willensky
Robert L. Ryan ’68