Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute 2027

Two Weeks to Explore, Connect and Grow

The Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute (ESSYI) is a two-week, college-level summer program for high school students entering their junior or senior year or preparing to graduate. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students examine pressing environmental challenges from scientific, social, economic, philosophical, ethical and political perspectives. Along the way, they develop new ways of thinking, build connections with peers and gain experience tackling complex environmental issues. The on-campus program is a one credit (4 semester hours) course that serves as an introduction to environmental studies.

JULY 11-24, 2027

ESSYI offers an active, collaborative learning experience that challenges students to think critically, work across disciplines and develop solutions to complex environmental issues. Through hands-on learning and collaborative problem-solving, students gain a deeper understanding of environmental challenges while discovering new academic interests and potential career paths. For many ESSYI alumni, the experience has been a turning point in shaping what they choose to study in college and pursue beyond graduation.

What to Expect at ESSYI

• • Earn college credit. Complete a college-level environmental studies course worth four semester hours of academic credit.
  • Explore the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks. Conduct field research on Seneca Lake, investigate local forests and wetlands and spend four days studying the natural environment of the Adirondacks.
  • Learn by doing. Collect and analyze environmental data, explore sustainability challenges and investigate real-world issues through boat excursions, fieldwork and visits to sites such as landfills and protected natural areas.
  • Work collaboratively. Exchange ideas, tackle environmental challenges and apply what you've learned to a group project focused on conservation and sustainable development.
  • Build connections. Learn alongside HWS faculty, current college students and peers from across the country and around the world.
  • Get support from HWS students. Receive guidance and mentorship from current Hobart and William Smith students who serve as ESSYI staff.

ESSYI welcomes curious, motivated students who are passionate about environmental issues, eager to explore new ideas and committed to making a positive difference in their communities and the world.

Apply now and we’ll see you in July!

Explore ESSYI

Discover the courses, faculty, student mentors and experiences that make ESSYI an engaging introduction to environmental studies.

Curriculum

Explore the interdisciplinary courses and hands-on field experiences that introduce students to environmental challenges and solutions.

Meet the HWS faculty who teach ESSYI and the college student staff who mentor and support participants throughout the program.

Student Experiences
Hear directly from ESSYI alumni about their experiences, what they learned and how the program influenced their academic interests.

Our Commitment to Inclusion
Learn how ESSYI fosters a welcoming learning environment that brings together students with diverse backgrounds, interests and perspectives.