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Skidmore Young Scholars Science Institute

The Skidmore Young Scholars Science Institute (SYSSI) is a free summer program for local high school students interested in exploring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The program offers hands-on experiences across a wide range of scientific disciplines—from cell biology and chemistry to neuroscience, computer science, environmental science, and more.

SYSSI grew out of the original Young Scholars Cell Biology Institute, launched in 2016 as a highly successful outreach initiative supported by the National Science Foundation. Building on that strong foundation, the program has expanded to include a broader range of STEM disciplines, providing students with exposure to multiple scientific fields and potential career pathways.

The program runs July 20–24 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.each day. SYSSI is a non-residential program, and students are expected to attend for the full week. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from campus each day.

During the program, students engage in immersive laboratory and experiential learning within Skidmore’s state-of-the-art facilities in the Billie Tisch Center for Integrated Sciences. Participants explore areas such as:

1. Biology and Microscopy
2. Neuroscience
3. Chemistry
4. Computer Science
5. Human Physiology
6. Physics
7. Environmental Science

Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ students participate alongside faculty and staff, offering high school students valuable insight into college life and STEM career exploration.

To ensure accessibility for students of all backgrounds, the program is offered free of charge, including daily lunch.

The program is designed primarily for students entering their junior and senior years of high school; however, all high school students are welcome to apply.

The application requires students to provide basic information, including their name, school, grade level, and emergency contact details. Applicants must also submit a brief statement describing why they are interested in attending the program and arrange for a current or former STEM teacher to submit a letter of recommendation on their behalf. Application link will be available on March 16, 2026

Questions about the program or the application process may be directed to Kara Cetto Bales, SYSSI program director.