Purdue University GER²I Camp
Date:July, 2023
Grade:5-12
Hosted by the world-renowned Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute (GER²I)
45 years of experience in gifted education
One of the most recognized youth academic programs in the US
Same curriculum and faculty as offline camps in the US
GER²I camp counselors make time outside of class exciting through activities like a night at the movies, basketball, bowling, scavenger hunts, games and tournaments, trivia, and field trips
30+ Optional Topics
Welcome Letter
ASDAN China reached a strategic cooperation with Purdue University GER²I in 2022, which symbolizes the introduction of the Purdue University GER²I program to outstanding Chinese youth. Purdue is a world-class research university, and GER²I students have the use of state-of-the-art laboratories, computing facilities, and a variety of libraries. In the GER²I Summer Camp, you will live in residence halls, learn in university classrooms and labs, and take advantage of Purdue’s cultural and recreational facilities, just like college students.
Introduction
Purdue University
Purdue University was founded in 1869. It has been ranked as among the best public universities in the United States by major institutional rankings, and is renowned for its engineering program. Purdue is also the founding member of the Big Ten Conference and member of the Association of American Universities. Purdue university has been integral in America's history of aviation, having established the first college credit offered in flight training; the first four-year bachelor's degree in aviation; and the first university airport: Purdue University Airport. Purdue's aviation technology and aeronautical engineering programs remain among the most competitive aviation-specific programs in the world. In the mid-20th century, Purdue's aviation program expanded to encompass advanced spaceflight technology, giving rise to Purdue's nicknames Cradle of Astronauts and Mother of Astronauts. 23 Purdue graduates have become astronauts, including Gus Grissom, one of the original Mercury Seven astronauts; Neil Armstrong, who was the first person to walk on the moon; and Eugene Cernan, who was the last person to walk on the moon.
Purdue has been affiliated with 13 Nobel laureates, 1 Turing Award laureate, 2 World Food Prize laureates, 3 Pulitzer Prize winners, 18 Olympic medalists, 3 National Medal of Technology and Innovation recipients, 2 National Medal of Science recipients, 3 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients, 7 members of Congress, 3 U.S. governors, and 2 heads of state. Purdue has over 400,000 living alumni. Its alumni have included 26 astronauts, 6 current Fortune 500 CEOs, 2 Rhodes Scholars, 4 Truman Scholars and 3 Gates Scholars.
The Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute
The Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute (GER²I) at Purdue University is an innovative center dedicated to the discovery, study, and development of human potential. Founded by John Feldhusen in 1977, GER2I’s mission is holistic development of giftedness, creativity, and talents among individuals throughout their lifespan. This is accomplished through enrichment programs for gifted, creative, and talented youth; graduate programs for future scholars and leaders; professional development and coursework for educators of gifted, creative, and talented students; and cutting-edge research in psychology and education related to giftedness, creativity, and talent development.
Purdue University GER²I Camp
Every summer, for over 40 years, GER²I has engaged gifted, creative, and talented students from across the country and around the world in residential camps designed to stimulate their imagination and expand their abilities. Students take challenging courses, and participate in engaging recreational activities.GER²I offers on a wide range of topics in computer programming, railroad engineering, rocketry, and aerospace, as well as courses in physics, math, science, social studies, art, and language arts.
6 Optional Topics
Brain science, Economics, Computer science, Engineering, Future science, Neuroscience
Brain Games: Messing with Your Mind
Can your brain grow through gaming? Using concepts in cognitive psychology, interaction design, and artificial intelligence, let’s explore how our brains work and create unique strategies for getting the most out of our brains. Through playing and making games, we’ll build game-like interactions at the same time!


Brain Science

Economics
High-Speed Global Problem Solving
Race against the clock to solve real-world dilemmas with a STEM spin! Step into a company employee’s shoes and use collaboration and problem-solving skills to address case-based problems. Integrate several disciplines, including leadership, humanities, technology, management, economics, resource availability, globalization, and current events to plan and pitch your solutions to your company’s CEO.

Science Fiction or Reality?
Sci-fi movies are fascinating, aren’t they? Ever wondered if you could be an engineer who turns sci-fi into reality? Take the first step into decoding and applying hands on engineering skills for the future. Through hands-on activities, we will explore artificial intelligence, computer aided design and automation, and sustainability that are changing the core of engineering. Let’s start now for a better tomorrow!


Future Science

Engineering
STEAM LABSTM
Students, engineers, artists, and hobbyists around the world design and build Rube Goldberg-style machines to satisfy society’s fascination with these creative contraptions. Apply the engineering design process to construct STEAM Machines (i.e., chain reaction machines that run on STEM and Art concepts) using everyday objects and technology such as motors, sensors, and micro-controllers. Gain experience with systems thinking and multi-team collaboration as you learn real-world engineering skills and explore pathways to engineering careers.

Brainiacs Unite!
Want to be a neuroscientist? Let this be your first giant leap! Using a number of mini-experiments and interactive activities, we’ll explore many aspects of neuroscience, including brain structures and functions, the nervous system, brain scans, and neurological disorders.


Neuroscience

Computer Science
Python Programming for the Future
Do you want to be a 21st-century programmer? Here is the opportunity you have been waiting for! Python is a 21st century, powerful, open-source programming language that is also fast, friendly, and easy to learn! Jump right in with scripting, game development, website designing, and data analysis using Python. Solve real-world problems by mining big data in this hands-on and project-based exploration.

Optional Topics
Primary School
Middle School
High School
Optional topics for elementary school
Grade:
For students who have completed grade 5 or 6
Date:
July 2-15, 2023
First-week optional topics:

Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.)
Explore the skills used by criminal investigators to solve crimes through hands-on activities in observation, fingerprint analysis, DNA, “blood” spatter, and handwriting analysis. Build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will enable you to investigate crimes and determine the appropriate methods needed to crack the case.

Curious and Creative Thinking
Spark your creative and divergent thinking and rekindle your ability to be a deeply curious thinker by learning strategies that stretch these capacities of your brain. We will learn why curiosity and creativity are not fixed abilities and how everyone can become more curious and more creative.

Fun Filmmaking
Positions, everyone! Lights, camera, action! Sure, we know the stars in front of the camera, but what about the masterminds behind it? Movie producers and directors tell stories in compelling ways that have a lasting effect on their audiences. We’ll explore the fundamentals of filmmaking using recording and editing equipment to tell stories that will wow your GER²I camp audience!
Science of Sound with Synthesizers
What’s the scariest sound you’ve heard in a movie or the most amazing combination of sounds you’ve heard in a soundtrack? Let’s explore the intersections of sound and science using Eurorack-style analog synthesis modules to produce unique electronic sounds and music using software used by sound technicians in the field today.

To Infinity and Beyond!
If you’re interested in learning more about our universe to infinity and beyond, this course is for you! Bring your inquisitive, sharp, and ambitious mind to discover the unending possibilities beyond our atmosphere through the foundations and fundamentals of space science. We might even predict the future for earthlings!
Second week optional topics:

Crime Scene Investigation (C.S.I.)
Explore the skills used by criminal investigators to solve crimes through hands-on activities in observation, fingerprint analysis, DNA, “blood” spatter, and handwriting analysis. Build critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will enable you to investigate crimes and determine the appropriate methods needed to crack the case.

Game Genius(a.k.a. Mathematical Mastermind)
Game design is fast becoming one of the most popular occupations in our world today, but what does it take to create an awesome game? We’ll use measurement, algebra, arithmetic knowledge and skills, 3D printing, and design elements to develop and play games that bring your imagination to life!

It’s Not Rocket Science! Oh, Wait, Yes, It Is!
Did you know that a fully assembled, NASA rocket can be 184 feet tall and can weigh 4.5 million pounds?! Think about how much force it takes to lift that rocket into our atmosphere and beyond! Let’s explore the forces and other scientific principles behind successful rocket launches and landings (on a much smaller scale, of course).

Science of Sound with Synthesizers
What’s the scariest sound you’ve heard in a movie or the most amazing combination of sounds you’ve heard in a soundtrack? Let’s explore the intersections of sound and science using Eurorack-style analog synthesis modules to produce unique electronic sounds and music using software used by sound technicians in the field today.

The Invisible World of Bacteria and Immunology
Not to gross you out, but did you know your body contains more bacteria than cells?! But never fear! Some bacteria are friendly while other bacteria need to be captured and destroyed before they make us sick. Let’s think like immunologists as we investigate how vaccines boost our immune system to protect us against harmful bacteria the instant they enter our bodies!

Virtual World Tour
Let’s travel the world in five days! Using advanced technology, we will virtually explore the most amazing destinations across the globe, including the people, wildlife, and plants that live in these incredible places! Share your discoveries by creating a product to share our travels with friends and family.
Optional topics for middle school
Grade:
For students who have completed grade 7 or 8
Session 1:
July 2-15, 2023
Session 2:
July 16-29, 2023
Optional topics for the first morning session:

Art and Science of Color and Design
Did you know that science has uncovered the ways in which color affects daily decision-making and moods? What does it mean to choose a “favorite” color, and what does that color say about you? After learning about the science of color, we’ll analyze the function of color in design and art.

From Giant Leaps to Quantum Leaps
You’ve heard of Purdue’s own Neil Armstrong’s giant leap, but have you heard of a quantum leap? Let’s explore quantum by collecting data that provide evidence for the concept of probability in the decaying process of Carbon-14 atoms to Nitrogen-14 atoms and use quantum randomness and a quantum random number generator to create a unique piece of art that uses data coming from a real quantum lab at Australian National University (ANU).

Leadership 101
Do you want to make a difference in your community, become the CEO of a multi-national company, or hope to become the president of a country one day? If so, you are going to need a toolbox of essential skills all leaders must develop. Let your voice be heard through transformational leadership training activities designed to help you discover the leader inside of you.

The Future Is Electric!
From electric bicycles to electric cars, electricity has revolutionized the way we travel. What’s next?! Let’s explore electrical engineering through hands-on activities and interactive lessons with LEDs, sensors, and more. Bring your ideas and let’s light up your future projects!

The Wonder and Magic of Chemistry
Chemistry is all around us! Let’s celebrate the wonder and magic of chemistry as it affects our everyday lives. With our buddy, the MOLE, we’ll explore foundational concepts like the organization of the periodic table, chemical equations and reaction types, and the importance of an atom’s nucleus in atomic power.
Optional topics for the first afternoon session:

A Literary Window to the World
It would be impossible to learn every language in the world and read every piece of literature in one lifetime, but we can read classic literatures in English, original or translated, to gain a holistic knowledge of how our world came to be. Join us as we read excellent literatures from India, Nigeria, Korea, and Brazil that will help us better understand our global society.

Bienvenue à Paris!
Have you always dreamed of visiting Paris? Well, at GER²I camp, we’re bringing Paris to you! Bring your creativity and get ready for some joie de vivre! Learn to cook the best French desserts during cooking classes, take a ballet class like a pro from the Palais Garnier, and learn more about the French language, history, and geography.
* No prerequisite knowledge of the French language required.

Sleepy Science
We all sleep, and we know our bodies need it, but what’s the science behind why sleep matters? We’ll use scientific methods to better understand sleep and how important it is to how we feel, grow, learn, and work, and even how sleep can prevent serious medical issues, like strokes and heart attacks.

STEAM LABSTM
Students, engineers, artists, and hobbyists around the world design and build Rube Goldberg-style machines to satisfy society’s fascination with these creative contraptions. Apply the engineering design process to construct STEAM Machines (i.e., chain reaction machines that run on STEM and Art concepts) using everyday objects and technology such as motors, sensors, and micro-controllers. Gain experience with systems thinking and multi-team collaboration as you learn real-world engineering skills and explore pathways to engineering careers.
Optional topics for the second morning session:

Francophone World Tour
Parlez-vous francais? If so, you’d be among the 300 million Francophones (people who speak French) around the globe! French culture, customs, and language have influenced almost every country in the world, so let’s explore these historic, global spaces to learn how to cook the best French dishes and paint like the Impressionists!
*No prerequisite knowledge of the French language required.

Let’s Talk Science
In an increasingly technological world, scientists need to know both the science of their specialty and how to effectively communicate their work to fellow scientists and the public. Our audience determines how we “talk science.” In this course, you will be introduced to digital media research skills and empathy-building experiences to create informative presentations that different audiences will understand and enjoy.

Marvels of Chemistry
From fueling up the sun to ice floating in water, chemistry is everywhere—even inside us! Marvels of Chemistry will astound you as you look at the mundane through the lens of chemistry. Return home with an unlimited supply of fun facts to wow your family and friends.

Music and Coding
Did you know that music, math, and computer programming have a lot in common? Let’s explore these intersections as we learn about digital sound synthesis, signal processing, and algorithmically generated music. Then, apply what you’ve learned to create your own music using the Supercollider programming language. 
Optimize Your Talents with Six Sigma
Successful entrepreneurs like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos have certain things in common. They are creative and innovative, they take risks, and they persevere in the face of setbacks. The Six Sigma program was designed to help the rest of us achieve peak performance through identifying our strengths, taking strategic risks, and turning setbacks into successes. Join us as we practice Six Sigma techniques using fun games and puzzles and apply Six Sigma for future succes.
Optional topics for the second afternoon session:

Electrochemistry-You Can’t Escape It!
Electrochemistry drives our everyday lives--it powers our cars and more! Through hands-on experiences, we’ll learn how electrochemistry makes everyday things work. We’ll conduct experiments like profession- als perform in their labs and even design our own research projects.

Entrepreneurship Basics
Did you know that the youngest entrepreneur in the U.S. is a 7-year-old from Louisiana?! Did you know that Purdue University has ranked in the Top 10 of the most innovative universities in America for the last five years?! Entrepreneurship and innovation are the new currencies of the job market, and you don’t have to be an adult to use them. Bring your innovative ideas, and let’s take an entrepreneurial journey where you’ll learn how to develop, pitch, and sell the products you’ve designed.

Exploring German Language and Culture
Did you know that Gesundheit means health? Have you ever made Black Forrest Cherry Cake? Let’s have fun exploring the German language and culture in this fast-paced course where we’ll learn practical German expressions, discover classic German legends, sing popular German songs, and experience German culture through virtual tours and creative activities. And, yes, we’ll make and enjoy the world-famous German Black Forest cherry cake!

From Giant Leaps to Quantum Leaps
You’ve heard of Purdue’s own Neil Armstrong’s giant leap, but have you heard of a quantum leap? Let’s explore quantum by collecting data that provide evidence for the concept of probability in the decaying process of Carbon-14 atoms to Nitrogen-14 atoms and use quantum randomness and a quantum random number generator to create a unique piece of art that uses data coming from a real quantum lab at Australian National University (ANU).

Psychological Anthropology: History meets Psychology
How does human behavior shape history, and how does history shape future human behavior? If a decision to go to war is made by a country’s leaders, why can’t these leaders make decisions to keep peace instead? How do peoples’ values with regard to human life, patriotism, and freedom determine whether they’ll fight in a just (or unjust) war? These important questions will guide our exploration of major global conflicts, including the Holocaust, the Rwandan Genocide, and the Syrian War, to understand how social psychology influences human action and to identify human conditions that incite violence.

STEAM LABSTM
Students, engineers, artists, and hobbyists around the world design and build Rube Goldberg-style machines to satisfy society’s fascination with these creative contraptions. Apply the engineering design process to construct STEAM Machines (i.e., chain reaction machines that run on STEM and Art concepts) using everyday objects and technology such as motors, sensors, and micro-controllers. Gain experience with systems thinking and multi-team collaboration as you learn real-world engineering skills and explore pathways to engineering careers.
Optional topics for high school
Grade:
For students who have completed grade 9, 10, 11 or 12
Session 1:
July 2-15, 2023
Session 2:
July 16-29, 2023
Optional topics for the first morning session:

All About Skyscrapers
Have you ever been in awe of skyscrapers? Did you know that high-rise buildings “behave” in predictable ways? Let’s explore some of the most magnificent engineering marvels in the world, including the underlying concepts and structural systems of their designs. Then, challenge your classmates to design and build skyscrapers that push the limits of creativity, design, and stability while also begin safe.

Art and Science of Color and Design
Did you know that science has uncovered the ways in which color affects daily decision-making and moods? What does it mean to choose a “favorite” color, and what does that color say about you? After learning about the science of color, we’ll analyze the function of color in design and art.

Brainiacs Unite!
Want to be a neuroscientist? Let this be your first giant leap! Using a number of mini experiments and interactive activities, we’ll explore many aspects of neuroscience, including brain structures and functions, the nervous system, brain scans, and neurological disorders.

Game Theory and Global Politics
We need gifted leaders like you to promote world peace and international cooperation. Learn and use game theories such as Nations as Actors, Resource Wars, and Hard Power vs. Soft Power to understand how and why nations make decisions on foreign policy. Apply these principles to current events and to your own international policy strategy through playing strategic games.
Launching Codes
Modern physics depends on the use of powerful computers to solve problems that cannot be solved by hand, but these programs must be written by someone. Join us for an out-of-this-world exploration of coding and how it translates to astrophysics. Challenge your coding skills by writing a numerical simulation of planets orbiting.

Think Like an Engineer
Are you curious about solving your day-to-day problems innovatively? In this course, you will learn, explore, and utilize the five stages of the Design Thinking Process to solve everyday problems. Challenge and explore your creativity with hands-on projects. Then, analyze, prototype, and test your innovative solutions from societal, cultural, and ethical perspectives. Don’t just think; let’s bring your ideas to life!
Optional topics for the first afternoon session:

Be Our Guest
In the next 9 years, approximately 23% of new jobs will be in leisure and hospitality! The amazing world of Hospitality Management awaits you at this year’s GER2I camp! From restaurants and hotels to sporting events and cruises learn about a wide range of career opportunities and have fun with hands on practice to gather information about these areas and more!
Design & Prototyping of Smart Toys and Robots
Build upon your knowledge of electronics, programming, sensors, and design to create smart toys and robots. Create technologies you control from your cell phone using everyday recyclables, circuits, and more, and work in collaborative teams to design and build a creative final project. We’ll also explore the Internet of Things (IoT), the ever-growing network of physical objects for internet connectivity. If you’re serious about engineering and technology, the skills you learn and the products you create at GER2I will be especially useful when applying for engineering and technology-based college programs.

Engineers Solving Physiological Problems
Curious about how biomedical engineers solve human health problems? In this course, we’ll learn about how systems within the human body function and how common diseases affect these systems. You will then get to use engineering tools and principles to design your own solution to a human health problem.

Getting to the Root of the Problem
When animals or humans need something, they usually move to get what they need. Plants are rooted in place, so how do they meet their needs? Did you know that a plant looks, tastes, or grows a certain way on purpose?! Let’s study the fascinating ways plants respond to their environments, from daily to seasonal to long-term fluctuations in the soil, water, and atmosphere, and discover what they must teach us about adaptability.

Serious Gaming for the 21st Century
Did you know that “serious gaming” refers to any game that does more than simply entertain? Exercise your teamwork, problem-solving, and goal-directed muscles as you engage in competitive and collaborative electronic or tabletop games with a greater purpose. Consider how serious gaming can enhance skills and future career possibilities in computer game technology, media and communications, and education.

Teaching Old Computers New Tricks
Have you ever been amazed with how a robot analyzes a situation and makes an appropriate response? Can computers see, read, and problem solve better than we humans can? What if I told you that a blind person can see with a computer’s eyes?!. Let’s test our computer know-how through daily challenges using an interactive Jupyter Notebook, Python coding, and scratchpad to prove that computers can solve real-life problems when humans “teach” them how.
Optional topics for the second morning session:

Be Our Guest
In the next 9 years, approximately 23% of new jobs will be in leisure and hospitality! The amazing world of Hospitality Management awaits you at this year’s GER2I camp! From restaurants and hotels to sporting events and cruises learn about a wide range of career opportunities and have fun with hands-on practice to gather information about these areas and more!

Brainiacs Unite!
Want to be a neuroscientist? Let this be your first giant leap! Using a number of mini-experiments and interactive activities, we’ll explore many aspects of neuroscience, including brain structures and functions, the nervous system, brain scans, and neurological disorders.

Leadership 101
Do you want to make a difference in your own community, become the CEO of a multinational company, or become the president of a country one day? If so, you are going to need a toolbox of essential, well-developed skills all leaders must possess. Participate in interactive scenarios and other activities that will launch you on a journey to discover the leadership potential inside of you.

Music and Coding
Did you know that music, math, and computer programming have a lot in common? Let’s explore these intersections as we learn about digital sound synthesis, signal processing, and algorithmically generated music. Then, apply what you’ve learned to create your own music using the Supercollider programming language. 
Optics! The Physics of Light
The presence of light seems simple, but the nature of light has perplexed physicists for centuries. Famous scientists including Newton and Einstein have contemplated the nature of light, but their experiments often yielded more questions than answers. Now it’s your turn to perform your own experiments, draw your own conclusions, and finally answer the question “What is light?”
*Prerequisites: Algebra and calculus

Sleep Science as Health Science
Our bodies require sleep, but sometimes we don’t get enough healthy sleep at night. Join us as we draw from the fields of public health, medicine, and psychology to learn more about why sleep matters and about the scientific methods we use to prove that sleep science is health science.
Optional topics for the second afternoon session:

Creative Writing Workshop
Explore the realms of creative writing in this hands-on workshop! Learn the various techniques used in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry We’ll brainstorm, free-write, edit, peer review, and share our stories as we try out different creative methods and use techniques professional writers use to improve and amplify their writing skills. Let’s raise our voices to write amazing stories from our own experiences and imaginations!
Design & Prototyping of Smart Toys and Robots
Build upon your knowledge of electronics, programming, sensors, and design to create smart toys and robots. Create technologies you control from your cell phone using everyday recyclables, circuits, and more, and work in collaborative teams to design and build a creative final project. We’ll also explore the Internet of Things (IoT), the ever-growing network of physical objects for internet connectivity. If you’re serious about engineering and technology, the skills you learn and the products you create at GER2I will be especially useful when applying for engineering and technology-based college programs.

Engineers Solving Physiological Problems
Curious about how biomedical engineers have solved human health problems? In this course, we’ll learn about how systems within the human body function and how common diseases and problems affect these systems. Then you’ll use engineering design principles and tools to design your own solution to a human health problem you’ve selected.

If You Give a Scientist a Cookie...
Why do apples turn brown? Why does Swiss cheese have holes? Why is sourdough bread sour? Food Science can answer all these questions and more with chemistry, microbiology, and many other disciplines. Let’s think like food scientists as we cook, test, and of course EAT our science experiments!

Physics Without Math? Well, almost!
Ever wondered how electric currents produce magnetic fields? How light refracts through lenses? What is E=mc2? What is the aerodynamics behind airplanes? Let’s understand the behavior of objects around us and demystify the causes of some common phenomena. Understand different pillars of nature (mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum physics, etc.) by conducting exciting experiments that will challenge us to perceive nature differently!

Serious Gaming for the 21st Century
Did you know that “serious gaming” refers to any game that does more than simply entertain? Exercise your teamwork, problem-solving, and goal-directed muscles as you engage in competitive and collaborative electronic or tabletop games with a greater purpose. Consider how serious gaming can enhance skills and future career possibilities in computer game technology, media and communications, and education.
Sample Schedule
Time | Monday to Friday | Weekend |
7:00 am - 8:30 am | Breakfast | The camp organizes extracurricular activities |
8:30 am -11:30 am | Morning class | |
11:30 am -1:00 pm | Lunch | |
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm | Afternoon class | |
4:00 pm - 5:00 pm | Meet with small groups | |
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm | Dinner | |
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm | Recreational activities/free time/study time | |
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm | Activity sessions | |
9:00 pm - 11:00 pm | Freestudy time, group activities | |
11:00 pm | Lights out/bed check(midnight on weekend) |
*Specific times may vary
Certification and Evaluation Report
At the end of the program, each student will receive an official certificate of completion and a personalized evaluation report from Purdue University The Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute (GER²I).
Certification
Evaluation Report
From GER²I community
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Students say
“I loved my Leadership 101 class. This class has helped me develop my natural leadership skills. You never know who is going to help you in life and take you far, and GER²I is a program that can help you get there!”
——Ajada W.
“I love seeing all of my friends, making new friends, and meeting people from other countries. I look up to all the counselors. They make each year fun. . .they bring new things every year, and they’re kind of like my family. They seem like my family!”
————Bella N.
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Parents say
“My son’s experience as a student and Counselor-In-Training at GER²I Summer Residential Program seems to have been more than we ever could have expected. He’s come home a more focused yet outgoing young man. He’s learned leadership, empathy, and perseverance in ways I’d never have imagined, and his outlook on his education has taken on a new enthusiasm. In six summers, GER²I helped sculpt a very promising future for a pretty deserving kid.”
——Cathie A.
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Program Coordinators say
“Our program is known for diversity. This diversity transcends locations and races. We take pride in the fact that our program actively promotes the inclusion of LGBTQ and twice-exceptional learners. Many of our students and staff describe GER2I as a safe space and find it their home. We believe not only in physical integration but also in psychological integration. We truly are one GER2I family!”
——Aakash Chowkase
“To me, GER2I is a place where everyone is welcomed. At GER2I Summer Residential Camp, as a previous counselor, assistant coordinator, and coordinator, I was privileged to meet and work with students from all over the world. I believe that the camp and students touched and shaped my life positively. The camp environment also showed me how this unique experience helps students reach their goals.”
—— Abdullah Tuzgen
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Teachers say
“I believe learning should be challenging, but it should also be fun. GER²I gives me the opportunity to unleash my creativity in developing courses that won’t be available in the regular classroom (like “World of Spies: Keeping Secrets” and “Become an ‘Escape Room Master’”), showing connections across a broad spectrum of topics within a specific framework. The staff and people behind the scenes are amazing, and my children can attest to their own incredible experience in this top-notch program.”
——Sheree B.,Winner, GER²I’s Sidney Marsh Moon Teacher Award 2021
“My favorite teaching moments are those beyond the traditional classroom. Purdue’s GER²I program is especially terrific because the students are all eager to learn and embrace challenges and the amount of growth we see in a short time is so rewarding!”
——Jordan W., Winner, GER²I’s Sidney Marsh Moon Teacher Award 2021
Application
Date:
19 July – 30 July, 2022(break on Sunday and Monday)
Grade:
7-9
Language:
English
Quota:
Up to 18 students per topic
Application Method
- 01. 90th percentile or above in math and 75th percentile or above in English on a nationally normed, standardized grade-level achievement test (e.g., MAP, STAR, etc.), or The requisite scores for PSAT 8/9 - Taken in grade 6 or earlier.
- 02. Recommendations from invited principals of partner schools
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03. Meet the corresponding Math/Science and English testsMore DetailsMeet the corresponding Math/Science and English tests
-Math or Science: AMC 8/10 美国数学测评 CMGC 加拿大数学测评 AMC 澳大利亚数学测评 UKMT-IMC 英国中级数学思维测评 袋鼠数学思维趣味活动 CML 北美数学联盟趣味活动 7-8年级 任意全球奖项 全球铜奖及以上 C-Junior 中国区成绩前20% 银奖及以上 Level 4:银奖及以上 银奖及以上 9年级 D-Intermediate 中国区成绩前20% Level 5:铜奖及以上 科学类(符合其中任意一项即可) BSC 澳大利亚科学测评 NSL 美国科学思维趣味活动 ACSL 美国计算机科学测评 CAT 澳大利亚信息数学测评 OUCC 牛津大学编程思维挑战 YBTC 美国少年化学家挑战活动 JPC&IPC英国物理思维挑战活动 BAAO Junior英国初级天文学和天体物理学奥林匹克活动 7年级 A:全国成绩前25% Level 4:金奖及以上 中国区个人积分排名前20% B-Junior:任意全球奖项 全国成绩前25% 成功晋级决赛 JPC:初选银奖及以上; IPC:任意全球奖项 任意全球奖项 8年级 B:全国成绩前25% 9年级 C:全国成绩前25 C-Intermediate:任意全球奖项 英语类(符合其中任意一项即可) 河马英语测评 TOEFL Junior® 雅思 托福 HIPPO 4晋级轮/总决战:金奖及以上 等级4及以上 6分及以上 80分及以上 HIPPO S15初轮:金奖及以上 - 04. Without the above test scores, students need to pass the online selection test organized by ASDAN China (focus on math and English skills).
Application
Admission Requirements
1. Please provide TWO of the following documents:
- Documentation of involvement in the GER²I or CTD camp. Such documentation can include pictures or scans of awards, certificates, service, or recognition letters documenting involvement.
- Student grade transcript showing a GPA of 3.5/4.0 (B+) in the talent area related to the applicant’s choice of GER²I class(es). Grades may be from the most recent year or cumulative.
- Individual or group intelligence test results with a minimum score of 120.
- National or state achievement or aptitude test results at or above the 90th percentile in a specific area of study and 75th percentile in Reading. These tests must provide comparison scores and percentile rankings, not percentages correct. Examples include ITBS, I-STEP, CAT, MAT8, Midwest Talent Search, SAT, PSAT, ACT, or PLAN tests. Please submit test reports.
- Any documentation of the student's English (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90 and equivalent) and academic performance (school transcripts/international assessments, etc.)
- If none of the above is available, students must pass an online selection test organized by ASDAN China (with a focus on math and English skills)
- Students who have won international and national level awards in various international mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology and finance assessments organized by ASDAN China will be exempted from the corresponding subjects and given priority for admission.
- Preference will be given to students who have received the ASDAN CoPE / AoPE Certification.
2.First-time residential campers must provide a one- to two-page essay or alternative media (such as a website, PowerPoint presentation, or art portfolio) statement that addresses your desire and motivation to participate in the Summer program.
Use the following questions as guidelines:
• 1. Why did you select the class(es) you have chosen?
• 2. In what ways do you think you will benefit from the program?
• 3. Why do you want an academic and/or artistic challenge?
• 4. If accepted, what will you contribute to the success of the program you attend?
Date (2 weeks or 4 weeks optional)
- Grades 5-6: July 2 - July 15, 2023
- Grades 7-8: July 2 - July 15, 2023
July 16 - July 29, 2023 - Grades 9-12:July 2 - July 15, 2023
July 16 - July 29, 2023
Admission Quota
Only up to 18 students will be accepted for each topic