Unleash your curiosity and ignite a passion for the natural world. Arboretum Young Scientists is a free and immersive four-week summer program where Boston Public School rising 7th and 8th graders engage in hands-on outdoor exploration, delving into the captivating world of natural sciences amidst the lush beauty of Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum.
Program Highlights
- Explore the hidden lives of the plants and creatures found in the gardens and woodlands at the Arboretum.
- Engage in thrilling hands-on activities, investigations, and experiments.
- Connect with fellow explorers and create lasting friendships and memories.
- Learn about the Arboretum and get introduced to careers in the natural sciences.
- Get a behind the scenes look at the Arboretum through activities led by Arboretum Staff.
- Learn about ecosystems, soil composition, flower and plant adaptations, the importance of plant families, seed dispersal, and more.
- Create and present a final project showcasing all that was learned.
What You Need to Know
Who Can Participate
- Rising 7th and 8th graders from Boston Public Schools.
- Students with an interest in nature, science, and a willingness to be outdoors all day.
- Students that can commit to all aspects of the program.
- Ability to arrange your own transportation to and from program bus stops.
Cost
- This program is completely free of cost.
Time commitment
- 4 weeks during the month of July
- Monday – Friday, 9 am – 3 pm
Application Process
- Complete an online application by the deadline and keep an eye on your email for communication for Arboretum staff.
- Use the link above to access 2025 program details and the digital application.
Additional Details
- Lunch and snack will be provided daily.
- Transportation will be provided for those that want an alternative to taking public transportation or being driven. Bus pick-up/drop-off will be at several pre-designated, centrally located locations close to where students live. Enrolled students must be able to get to and from the bus locations on time.
- Communication with all accepted and enrolled participant families will be done through a WhatsApp community group, added by invitation leading up to the start of the program.
For questions about the program or assistance with the application process, please contact:
Katie Fox, Manager of Youth Education
Phone: (617) 384 – 5239
Email: katiefox@fas.harvard.edu
Download the program flyer in Spanish or download the program flyer in English.
