Summer Institute Tracks
Summer Institute tracks entail 22 hours of seat time during the week of Summer Institute. To be eligible for the 1-credit hour, attached to a Summer Institute track, students must be physically present and actively participate in at least 75% of the seat time (16.5 hours). Students who miss this seat time due to illness, arriving late, or departing early will be withdrawn from the 1-credit hour course.
Very few scenarios in life do not involve being a part of a team. Whether in athletics, organizations, work, family, or community, we all have some type of role of those teams. In the Leadership Track, you will learn the importance of pursing leadership opportunities and skills that will help gain positive influence within your team, both in your current stage of life, and for the future. Through classroom lectures and discussions, we will explore what makes a great leader and how you can lead in a way that accomplishes goals and gives glory to God. There will also be daily opportunities for students to put their leadership skills into practice through events and challenges.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
At the beginning of the week each student will be placed into competitive “squads,” where there will be daily events, activities, and competitions that provide opportunities to practice leadership skills learned. There will be classroom lectures and participatory discussions each day that will lead into the daily squad events. We will study excerpts from selected leadership books and look into how we can translate these skills into real-life scenarios. At the end of the week, we will have a squad champion based on points earned during the events.
In the Creative Writing Track, you will gain insights into the process of creative writing from a working author, as well as learn new approaches to unlocking your creative potential as a writer. You will spend time every day working on new pieces of your own creative writing. Finally, you will study exemplary models of creative writing and develop a foundation of understanding how creative writing can glorify God.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
Have you ever wondered how law enforcement professionals investigate crimes, enforce the law, and protect communities? In this immersive course, students will explore the foundational principles of the criminal justice system and gain hands-on experience in the skills and techniques used by modern-day offi cers and investigators. From understanding the legal process to applying forensic science and tactical procedures, this track offers a dynamic introduction to careers in law enforcement, corrections, and criminal investigations.
Sessions will cover topics such as the structure of the justice system, the role of police and courts, and the science behind crime scene analysis. Students will also engage in realistic training scenarios that simulate the challenges and responsibilities of criminal justice professionals.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
The engineering track will focus on learning and applying engineering skills, 3D design using computer aided drafting (CAD) software (Solidworks), 3D printing prototypes, testing designs, and working through the engineering design process.
Sessions will include learning background science, mathematical modeling, and utilizing innovative technology to engineer a 3D design solution.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
Students will investigate aquatic insects, biomimicry, food webs, and buoyancy to inform their engineering design of a fishing lure which they will 3D print and test. Students will apply skills in CAD 3D modeling software and use 3D printers to create their prototypes. Students will apply the main aspects of the engineering design process to develop their own unique designs.
Have you ever wondered how electronic devices like cell phones or computers work? In this class, students will learn about the basic building blocks of electronic circuits and how these can be combined to make working electronic devices. Sessions include an introduction to the science behind electronic devices such as resistors, capacitors, transistors, and integrated circuits and hands-on projects applying the principles learned to design and build working devices.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
The course will include hands-on development of electrical diagrams, device fabrication, and performance analysis for basic electronic devices. Example projects include an RC circuit dome light, transistor-based logic puzzles, a musical keyboard, and a radio transmitter and receiver. Students will also develop problem-solving and design skills and learn about engineering fields and careers.
Are you interested in how to become a personal trainer, athletic trainer, physical
therapist, or a coach? If so, this course is for you! Throughout this week students will
learn the basics of physical fitness and wellness. and take part in various fun sports
and activities like pickleball, soccer, basketball, and hiking. By the end of the week,
students will have the opportunity to develop their own exercise program, nutrition
plan, and goal-setting program. This track gives students endless opportunities in
the exercise and health science world!
Activities or Subjects of Learning
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Summer Institute will be a week fi lled with the opportunity to hear from experienced nurses, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare providers on topics relevant to a career in nursing. A sampling of the topics to be covered include vitals signs, emergency procedures, injections, simulation, and IV therapy. Students will have the opportunity to engage with current Bryan College nursing faculty and staff for a one-week look at what it is like to be a nursing student at Bryan College. Students should be prepared to encounter the material through a variety of learning methods, including lectures, games, and hands-on skills practice.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
Intramuscular injection practice, Vital Signs practice, Simulation mannequin demonstration and practice, IV skills practice, Patient communication practice.
In this dynamic and engaging track, students will sharpen their public speaking, critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills. Led by experienced educators and coaches, participants will explore the art of argumentation, learn how to build compelling cases, and gain confidence speaking in front of an audience. Whether you’re new to speech and debate or aiming to take your skills to the next level, this track offers an exciting and supportive environment for growth.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
The theatre track will be a combination of lecture-based learning, interactive learning, and rehearsal of a short staged reading which the students will perform at the end of the week. Students will learn about important periods of theatre history, different genres, acting techniques from the greats, design fundamentals, and more! Activities will include playwriting exercises, performing skits, costume-related projects, and a crash course in directing.
Activities or Subjects of Learning
Martina Ferguson
Join us for an exciting journey into visual art, where high school students will use their smartphones to explore photography and watercolor painting! This welcoming track teaches you how to create beautiful images with your phone’s camera, even with its simple controls for things like focus and lighting. You’ll then bring your photos to life through watercolor techniques, blending technology with hands-on creativity. By the end, you’ll have a portfolio of photographs and paintings to proudly share with family and friends!
Activities or Subjects of Learning