冈本视频

High School Seminars

Each year since 1959, 冈本视频 has given area high school students a taste of the college experience. Faculty and administrators teach four sessions, meeting for three classes each, during the academic year.

The university鈥檚 mission is to provide a demanding, expansive educational experience to a select group of diverse, talented, intellectually sophisticated students who are capable of challenging themselves, their peers, and their teachers in a setting that brings together living and learning.

The mission of the High School Seminar Program is to use 冈本视频鈥檚 resources to benefit the region by introducing area high school students to college-level topics that are not available at their schools and to encourage college attendance by providing them with the opportunity to experience a taste of life on a college campus.

Daily Schedule

Arrival: Buses unload students at Merrill House at approximately 3:45 p.m.
Classes begin: 4 p.m.
Dinner break: 5鈦犫撯仩5:45 p.m.
Classes resume: 5:50鈦犫撯仩6:30 p.m.
Departure: 6:30 p.m., students board buses at Campus Safety's parking lot.

High School Seminar Dates for Fall Session I, 2026

  • Wednesday, September 23
  • Wednesday, September 30
  • Wednesday, October 7
  • Alternative weather date: Wednesday, October 14

Please email ramann@colgate.edu with any questions.

Current Course Descriptions

Teaching Science Phenomenally

Meg Gardner, Assistant Professor of Education, Director of MAT Program, 冈本视频

Central to this course is examining 鈥渨hat science is, how it works, how scientists operate as a social group and how society itself both directs and reacts to scientific endeavors鈥 (McComas, Clough & Almazroa, 1998). Students will explore teaching practices that recast science teaching to reveal these historical and social complexities. Phenomena-based teaching is an approach that promotes curiosity while building capacities to use scientific data to make claims about natural processes. Students will take part in science demonstrations and even craft their own versions while reflecting on their science learning. Through active learning, students will uncover the beauty of scientific discovery while also gaining an appreciation of the ways we interpret and communicate science in classrooms. 

Introduction to Mountain Biking and Repair

Brandon Maynard, Outdoor Education Specialist, 冈本视频

Join us for an introduction to the incredible sport of mountain biking and the fundamentals of bike repair. Space is limited to 8 students; waivers are required, and a willingness to be physically challenged is a must.

Rhetoric and Sport

Steve Ingham, Visiting Assistant Professor of Rhetoric and Writing, 冈本视频

This class focuses on the intersection of rhetoric and sport. We will discuss how rhetoric interacts with sport, how our fanship shapes our identity, and how the rhetoric of sport affects our world. 

Feedback, Resilience, and Finding Your Strength

Esther Rosbrook, Director, ALANA Cultural Center, 冈本视频

This workshop helps participants develop the resilience and emotional skills needed to navigate challenges, setbacks, and feedback with confidence. Through reflection and practical activities, participants will learn how to manage their emotions, respond constructively to criticism, and view feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than a personal attack. This skill-based workshop also explores strategies for building a growth mindset, strengthening self-awareness, and communicating feedback effectively with others. By the end of the session, participants will be better equipped to handle difficult situations, learn from their experiences, and continue growing as leaders, students, and professionals. Participants will engage in both small-group and large-group activities, discussions, and practice exercises to apply new skills in a supportive and interactive learning environment. 

Japan: A primer on history, art, language and popular culture

Darwin Rodriguez, Museums Operations Manager, 冈本视频

Do you like anime? Are you curious about this group of islands across the ocean on the other side of the world? Do you want to learn some basics about Japanese language and history? Then this is the course for you. 銈堛亞銇撱仢! 

Why Some Buildings Make You Feel Happy

Sergei Domashenko, Senior Lecturer in Russian and Eurasian Studies, 冈本视频

In this seminar, discover how designers use space and nature to influence the way we think and feel. Through real-world examples and fun activities, you will learn how the built environment shapes our emotions鈥攁nd even design your space.

Perfect for anyone interested in architecture, psychology, design, or simply understanding the built environment around them! 

(Space limited to 18 students)