Academic enrichment program for high school students

High-achieving Year 11 students are being given the chance to experience university life through the University of Queensland’s Young Scholars Program (YSP).

Now in its third year, the program is designed to provide students with a unique opportunity for academic enrichment and expose them to a wide range of potential study areas.

Two hundred and fifty students are selected annually for the program, which involves two residential camps over Years 11 and 12 at UQ’s St Lucia campus.

As well as academic components, YSP also includes group discussions, collaborative forums and social, sporting and cultural activities.

2010 Young Scholar and Faith Lutheran College Captain, Abby Dennien, said the program was academically and personally fulfilling.

“The camps became more than just finding out about university as I made friends with like-minded people, who care greatly about their studies and their futures.

“Although I’m a naturally shy person, the Young Scholar Student Mentors made me feel very comfortable and welcomed, so the experience was also personally rewarding.”

Selection for the program is based on a student’s academic, leadership and community service achievements.

Forest Lake State High School Year 12 student Edward Greenaway was also a Young Scholar last year and said YSP gave him valuable insights into potential study options.

“This experience couldn’t be more beneficial and if you’re in Year 11 and have plans to attend university, the Young Scholars Program is made for you,” he said.

To be eligible for selection to the UQ Young Scholars Program, an applicant must be:

- Enrolled in Year 11 at a Queensland secondary school
- OP eligible and intending to pursue university studies on completion of Year 12

UQ will select students from a wide range of schools across Queensland and Northern NSW. Students from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds and students of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are encouraged to apply.

Applications close 5pm Friday August 12, 2011.

For more information and to apply please visit http://www.uq.edu.au/youngscholars/ or email youngscholars@uq.edu.au or phone 07 3346 9746.

Media: Kim Lyons (Office of Prospective Students, Scholarships and Student Equity; kim.lyons@uq.edu.au or 0434 604 921) or Caroline Bird (UQ Communications; 07 3365 1931 or c.bird1@uq.edu.au).