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 II, 2026

  • Wednesday, November 4
  • Wednesday, November 18
  • Wednesday, December 2
  • Alternative weather date: Wednesday, December 9

Please email ramann@colgate.edu with any questions.

Current Course Descriptions

College Application Workshop: Telling Your Story

Lynn Holcomb, Senior Associate Dean and Director of Admission Strategy, 冈本视频

Every application tells a story, but the most compelling applications are those that authentically reflect who you are, what matters to you, and the experiences that have shaped your journey. In this interactive workshop, students will learn how to present a thoughtful and cohesive narrative throughout the college application process. We will explore how essays, activities, recommendations, and supplemental materials work together to highlight your unique strengths, values, and aspirations. Participants will gain insight into what admission officers look for when evaluating applications and how to avoid common mistakes. Through examples and practical tips, students will learn how to showcase their accomplishments with authenticity and confidence. Whether you are just beginning your application or refining your final submissions, this workshop will help you communicate your story in a way that is both genuine and memorable. 
 

Gods, Heroes and Monsters

Patrick Owens, Visiting Assistant Professor of Classics, 冈本视频

Why are we still obsessed with stories told thousands of years ago around campfire flames and in ancient marble theaters? From Percy Jackson and Marvel comics to psychology, literature, and astronomy, ancient stories of Gods, Heroes, and Monsters hold a lasting influence on our modern imaginations. This course serves as an introduction to the myths of Ancient Greece. Together, we will investigate often bizarre stories of the gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters of classical antiquity to answer the questions: what are myths, where did they come from, how they shaped ancient societies, and why they continue to hold a mirror up to human nature today. 

Building a Gaming PC for Cheap

Sam Schuman, Emergency Management Project Manager and Clery Compliance Officer, 冈本视频

This course will illustrate a cost-conscious approach to building a home computer for gaming or other higher-performance applications. It will focus on sustainable use of computer hardware and reducing e-waste, installation and modification of open-source operating systems, safe and effective use of Generative AI for troubleshooting, general knowledge of consumer hardware standards such as PCIe, ATX, CPU sockets, DDR RAM, and bandwidth VS throughout, and how to find cheaper alternatives to buying new hardware.

Thecas as Proxies: Holocene Paleoclimate, Micropaleontology, and Paleolimnology

Krysia Kornecki, Teaching and Research Support Technician, Earth and Environmental Geoscience, 冈本视频

Sediment is a time machine, and single-celled, shelled amoebae called testate amoebae or "thecas" are one of its recording device. Students learn to identify and count these microfossils from real sediment samples 鈥� the same method used in professional paleoclimate research 鈥� and use their own data to reconstruct environmental change. No prior science background required; the core skill is careful observation and pattern recognition.

Middle Eastern Culture and Arabic Language

Amany Elsaeid, Senior Lecturer in Middle Eastern & Islamic Studies, 冈本视频

This course aims to explore the vibrant cultures and rich heritage of the Middle East and its influence on contemporary society. Students will delve into various aspects including history, geography, literature, art, music, cuisine, and traditions. By utilizing authentic materials such as movies, songs, and texts, the course fosters intercultural dialogue and cross-cultural communication.

Alongside the cultural exploration, the course provides a comprehensive introduction to the basics of the Arabic language, including the alphabet, pronunciation, vocabulary, and essential conversational skills. Through interactive activities, group discussions, and presentations, students will develop a solid linguistic foundation. By the end of the course, students will gain a broader global perspective and valuable skills that open future academic and professional opportunities related to the Arab world.

Note: This class will only be eating in the dining hall one of the sessions; the other two will include dining on culturally significant foods within the classroom.

Finding Your Power: Discovery Through Self-Reflection, Social Media Branding, and Your Natural Gifts.

Christopher Humphreys, Area Director, Residential Life, 冈本视频

"To know oneself is to know the universe". This course will help students explore their innate powers of leadership, emotional intelligence, and intellect. Engaging conversations and activities such as social media branding and communicative skillset building will help illuminate and find purpose in what they want to do. We will also explore confidence in self-identity, helping lend its power when navigating the upcoming challenges of the world.