Experience College as a Summit Scholar

A Community of Scholars

The Summer Summit is a transformative five day experience for rising high school seniors who are first in their families to go to college or underrepresented in higher education. Attendees, Summit Scholars, live in a residence hall together, forming a supportive learning community. In this environment, Scholars receive an introduction to the growth-mindset, mentorship from current Colby-Sawyer College students, and cohort building experiences with their peers.

Scholars participate in workshops exploring the college application and financial aid processes as well as academic classes. With a focus on self-exploration and vocation, Scholars create personalized long-term goals and plans to achieve them. When they leave at the end of the week, Scholars have a better understanding of the value of college in their lives and how to navigate the process.

Partnering with Families

Parents and guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend our registration, campus tours, and information session on our first day. Family support is critical for the student who is just starting out on their college journey. Food and lodging will be provided at no cost to the family during the Summit.

“The Summit truly did teach me a lot. Though I might still be a little shy or reserved, I have to say this trip made my entire summer; I did not want to leave, and may have even cried a little! I learned the importance of communication, perseverance and most importantly, grit. I am truly thankful for the time and extreme amount of effort all the leaders put into this program.”

Summit Scholar, 2018

Access to College through Scholarships @ CSC

There is no obligation to apply to Colby-Sawyer, though we hope you’ll consider joining us as a Charger! For the 2023-24 academic year, Colby-Sawyer has announced a new, lower tuition of $17,500. To show our dedication to you, Scholars who apply to Colby-Sawyer, and are admitted, will be awarded a Summit Scholarship: $10,000 plus a $2,000 Early Action Grant. This is our highest merit award and can be renewed each year that Scholars maintain high academic standards and community engagement. To be considered for the scholarship, applications are due to Colby-Sawyer by December 1st.

Supporting our Student Leaders

Scholars who attend Colby-Sawyer have consistent and structured support on campus. Peers, mentors, alumni, faculty and staff will be there for our Scholars from pre-application through post-graduation.

Qualifications

High school juniors from our partner schools and programs may apply if they:

  • Will be a “first generation” college student, i.e. first in their families to go to college or belong to a population underrepresented in higher education
  • Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Any GPA not determined by a 4.0 scale will be recalculated.
  • Can commit to living on campus for five days.
Applying

Our current partner schools and programs receive an application to share with their students annually. Contact Erica Webb, Director of Student Success and Retention at ewebb@colby-sawyer.edu if you are interested in becoming a Scholar and your school is not yet a partner!