Earlham Summer adds 3rd week; new course for young birders

This year, Earlham Summer expands to three full weeks of hands-on learning, exciting new courses, and opportunities to explore, create, and connect with other students on Earlham College’s beautiful campus.

Earlham Summer is a weeklong pre-college experience for high school students that offers a preview of living and studying at a Top 100 National Liberal Arts College. Students take a course taught by an Earlham professor, earn a college credit, and get insider information about how to apply and maximize financial aid opportunities.

“This program is intentionally designed to help the next generation of students envision how a college education can enrich their lives and support their future pursuits,” said Jill Nelson, associate director of summer programs. “With Earlham’s national reputation for outstanding teaching and value, we’re proud to provide meaningful college-level experiences for students from all backgrounds and interests.”

With an additional week added this summer, students have even more opportunities to explore new subjects and discover new passions.

New courses to spark curiosity

Ever wondered who’s singing in your backyard—or how an eagle can soar? In the new course, “Bird Biology: Wings to Songs,” students explore bird evolution, biology, and conservation through hands-on learning and daily field trips in the Earlham Nature Reserve System.

“The course gives students the chance to experience the wonder of our feathered friends here at Earlham,” said Josh Angell, biology department laboratory manager and course instructor. “From exploring habitats in the Nature Reserve to watching a live bird-banding demonstration, students will see what it’s like to study birds up close in the wild.”

Why do people commit corruption and financial fraud? In “The Anatomy of Fraud,” students will investigate famous cases like Enron, analyze real company reports using SEC data, tackle ethical dilemmas, and explore how businesses prevent fraud using tools like blockchain. Taught by Ryan Hudgins, assistant professor of business, the course concludes with student presentations on recent fraud cases, building research and critical-thinking skills.

Through interactive role-plays and discussions, “Conflict Resolution” provides students opportunities to explore diverse approaches to conflict resolution and practice nonviolent techniques. Taught by Joanna Swanger, professor and director of Earlham’s Peace and Global Studies program, students will feel more self-assured in navigating disagreements and equipped with practical strategies for real-world situations.

A summer experience beyond the classroom

Alongside new courses, Earlham Summer offers a vibrant learning community. Small class sizes, expert instructors, and interactive projects make learning engaging and meaningful. Students also enjoy:

• Field trips and outdoor exploration
• Social events and collaborative projects
• Connecting with peers who share their interests

By the end of their session, students leave with a deeper understanding of their interests — and college credit to show for it.

Registration is open, and spots fill quickly. Visit the Earlham Summer website to explore courses, view key dates, and secure your place. With three weeks of learning, adventure, and connection, Earlham Summer is an experience students won’t forget.

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About Earlham College 

Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion foster a collaborative learning community that inspires and motivates students with transformative opportunities and experiences so they can become catalysts for good in a changing world. Located in Richmond, Indiana, Earlham is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 100 national liberal arts colleges and offers one of the top 20 classroom experiences in the nation, according to the Princeton Review.