We’re so excited to bring this event back!
CollegeThoughts has over fifteen years of experience helping students maximize their performance on standardized testing and presenting their most authentic selves in applications to the nation’s top colleges. CECAAL has been providing college tours for 28 years. Together, we’ve designed an exploration of the college process like no other. For our fourth Boot Camp experience, we are searching nationwide for the students who will most benefit from this unique experience.
Calling all students!
The college process is getting started in earnest, and it’s time to start getting your ducks in a row. Let us help!
August 11-17th, we will visit and tour six of the nation’s top colleges, hear from professors at those same institutions, take a crash course in both the SAT and ACT, develop drafts of college essays, and learn how to start an effective scholarship search. We are currently planning to visit the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, American University, University of Virginia, UNC, Davidson, and Duke University, but schools are subject to change based on COVID protocols and program offerings.
We only do this trip once per year, and spots are limited, so don’t wait to apply!
Here’s What You Can Expect:
College Tours
Visiting schools is an important part of the process! It’s a student’s first time to really get a feel for the campus and get a first impression of what could be their new home. During this week, we’ll be visiting 6 of the nation’s top colleges. Stay tuned for more information on the schools we’ll see this week!
Test Prep Crash Course
Standardized testing feels like the proverbial monster in the closet, but it doesn’t have to! Each day will feature workshops and breakouts for students to work on developing their skills and for them to learn tips, tricks, and strategies to help them achieve their goals.
College Essay Drafts
Writing a stellar college essay has become an integral part of the application process. It’s a student’s chance to tell admissions officers more about themselves, but it can feel almost impossible to get started. This week, we’ll spend time coaching students on how to put their most authentic selves on paper and write a fantastic essay.
Summer Boot Camp | 6-Day Summer Intensive
DAY 1
09:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Information Session
12:00 PM – 01:00 PM – Lunch
01:00 PM – 05:00 PM – Test Prep Workshop / Essay Workshop
05:00 PM – 07:00 PM – Travel
07:30 PM – 09:00 PM – Complete Assignments
09:00 PM – Lights Out
Still a little unsure? Read what some of our former participants had to say!
My favorite part of the boot camp was seeing all the different colleges. The variety of perspectives and acceptance rates taught me that the acceptance rate and prestige of a school isn’t everything, and that other schools also deserve a chance. It also introduced me to the idea of less urban schools, as I found schools like Syracuse intriguing.
– Leo, Class of 2024
The college panels were extremely valuable but I learned so much from the afternoon workshops. The presentations were engaging and I didn’t know most of the information being covered. Workshops over college essays and scholarships made me feel a bit more reassured about what was approaching my future.
– Elliot, Class of 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in the in-person cost?
Included in the cost of the in-person boot camp are lodging, 2 meals a day, transportation costs, and materials.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid is available on an extremely limited basis. If you feel you are in need of some financial assistance, please make sure to get your application in early.
What schools are you visiting on the in-person tour?
We are currently planning to visit the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, American University, University of Virginia, UNC, Davidson, and Duke University, but schools are subject to change based on COVID protocols and program offerings.
Is there an application deadline?
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis until all of the program spaces are filled.
