An [HS]2 Summer

By Tyreik Rogers ‘25

Located in Carbondale, Colorado is a free, residential 5-week STEM-based college access summer program for first generation and low-income students of color from around the U.S.

The name [HS]2, which isn’t a reference to the high school musical sequel, is actually a clever shorthand for “High School High Scholar.”

High schoolers from around the country come not only to receive rigorous math and science instruction but also to push past their comfort zone outside of the classroom as well, engaging in activities like kayaking, farming, and rock climbing.

As a person interested in STEM, I was quite interested in the program and it provided a chance for me to not only learn with other talented students but also to travel to a new place completely unknown to me. 

As someone who has been living in the city for 16 years, I have always been used to the big buildings, sounds of loud cars, living in an apartment and the other usual city stuff. However, once I got to the campus I knew right away that where I was now was nothing like where I was raised: I shared a dorm with other people, I was surrounded by nature and the peace it offers, and would often wake up to the song of birds chirping.

Despite all these unfamiliar things, I felt welcomed with open arms and comforted by every member of the community as I was shown around. 

I had first heard of [HS]2 from my friend Arlene ‘23 who had gone herself and I later asked Mr. Hasson, a 10th grade career counselor, about it. 

To apply for [HS]2 I had to first fill out an application that asks a few questions about who I am and my academic background, write an essay and then attend a short one-on-one Zoom meeting. With the support of the career team, helping me and answering my questions, I was able to complete these tasks and get accepted.

Although every day was a different challenge and adventure– whether it was learning in the classroom or hiking a mountain, I knew that I had a loving family there to have my back and support me on my journey. 

I would highly recommend this program to students who are interested in traveling, want to learn more about STEM and are interested in making new lifelong friendships with people whom you wouldn’t normally meet.