The Experience
Adventures of the Mind was often referred to as a mentoring summit because of the high ratio of mentors to students.
Our Mentoring Legacy
From 2003 through 2015, Adventures of the Mind brought together exceptionally talented high school students with accomplished adults for an immersive mentoring experience unlike any other. Known for its high ratio of mentors to students, the program helped young people expand their horizons, think critically, and explore future pathways with confidence and curiosity.
Students engaged in seminars, workshops, discussions, and informal conversations designed to sharpen their thinking and broaden their perspectives. They explored big ideas, navigated real-world challenges, and reflected on their own goals alongside mentors from diverse fields, including science, literature, public service, entrepreneurship, and the arts.
A Snapshot of the Experience
At its most recent gatherings, such as the 2015 program at Rosemont College near Philadelphia, more than 100 talented teens convened with mentor leaders to:
- Immerse themselves in guided conversations and interactive sessions
- Attend academic tours, college fairs, and experiential learning outings
- Discover the range of possibilities for academic, creative, and professional achievement
- Build lifelong friendships with peers and mentors alike
- Program alumni often cite these interactions as deeply formative: exposure to different perspectives, leadership examples, and personal stories that continue to shape their ambitions today.
“I was introduced to many versions of success at Adventures. What I took from hearing everyone speak to us was a respect for variation… Now true success means something different to me.”
— Julia Fong, ’14 Tan Scholar
What It Meant to Be Selected
Acceptance into Adventures of the Mind was a recognition of promise and potential. Students were nominated by educators who believed in their capacity to lead and to make meaningful contributions to their communities. The result was a diverse community of motivated teens, many of whom have gone on to thrive in college and beyond.
Today, the influence of those experiences lives on through our alumni network and the guidance they share with current high school students.
Step 1
Complete Application for admission.
Step 2
Your Educator submits a nomination and a letter of recommendation on your behalf.
Step 3
Acceptance notice within 30 days of receiving educator nomination and letter.