STEM Experience - Montreal on the Campus of McGill 21 Days
$3,199 – Includes 11 days of the STEM curriculum and two optional college workshops for day students. See More Details & How to Enroll.
Science. Technology. Engineering. Mathematics.
In an increasingly complex and ever-changing world, it’s more crucial than ever that our next generation of young professionals are equipped with the knowledge and abilities to solve issues, analyze information, and acquire and investigate evidence to make quality, informed decisions. A student who is knowledgeable and literate in the STEM subjects is more likely to be an analytical and critical thinker. Literacy in science, technology, engineering and mathematics is essential to meeting the diverse demands of today’s dynamic and evolving workforce, and will lead to gainful employment and higher-earning jobs in a world where there are more job openings in STEM fields than qualified job seekers.
Grab your career path by the reins and take control of your future while studying abroad on the campus of McGill University, often referred to as the “Harvard of the North”. This action-packed, hands-on program includes entertaining class and lab time with special industry guest speakers and site visits. Paired with making new friends, experiencing college life and getting a taste of what it’s like to live in Montreal, this program blends academic enrichment and personal growth to create the ultimate summer experience. By the end, you will have a better idea of what you can do with a STEM education and what career path you would like to pursue!
Explore your interest in the STEM fields and enjoy exciting city highlights. The perfect balance of learning, career exploration, and unforgettable summer fun.
Receive a letter certifying the completion of the program. Letters of recommendation are also available.
Meet experienced industry professionals who are ready to share their knowledge with you.
McGill University residence
Includes breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy a variety of great options at local restaurants.
Includes all recreation & activities listed.
Public transportation and occasional private motor coach or school bus.
Up to 40 students in the STEM track.
Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Contact us for details.
We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.
Facilitated by McGill faculty and industry professionals, this 3-week immersive program allows high school students to experience the different STEM fields in an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Learn about the different ways in which each STEM component affects the world and the importance of knowledgeable practitioners in the application of advanced technologies. Forge lifelong connections with like-minded students through group projects and small-group discussions with professionals in the different STEM industries.
On this program, you will:
Week 1: The Universe and Life Within It
Earth and Space Science - Students will learn how the Earth functions within the vast reaches of space and will gain a broader scientific understanding of Earth, its environment and how it interacts with other celestial bodies in our solar system. The scales of the phenomena that are studied in Earth and Space Sciences span from the infinitesimally small to the unfathomably large.
Laws of the Physical and Natural Worlds - Students will explore the fundamental laws of our existence and how they are governed by gravity, matter, and light. They will learn about the prerequisites for something to be regarded as a Law of Nature and have the opportunity to meet professionals from the Canadian Space Agency.
Anatomy and Physiology - The human body is incredibly complicated in both its structure and function. Students will gain knowledge about how to describe the anatomical details, physical characteristics, and physiological actions of the key elements of each major bodily system. They will also learn about the fundamental processes of the human body and of life in general.
Environmental and Agricultural Sciences - The state of our lives, our communities, and our planet are directly correlated with the state of agriculture and the environment. Students will examine the steps necessary to build a more sustainable future for generations to come. They will learn why it is necessary to innovate, discover and push the boundaries of our knowledge to address the critical research needed to enhance the lives of people around the world. Enjoy a visit from an industry professional guest speaker.
Week 2: Technological Innovations
Neuroscience - Students will examine the structure and function of the human brain and nervous system. Similar to how computers are connected with electrical connections, the brain is wired with neural connections. Understanding how this circuitry works and what happens when it is disrupted is one of the primary objectives of current neuroscience research.
Biomedical Sciences & Genetics - As the basis for all biology, genetics is the most rapidly evolving field in biomedical research. Students will gain an integrated understanding of biochemistry, molecular processes, human disease and biogeography and learn analytical techniques necessary for studies in the various domains of applied genetics. Enjoy a visit to a Biotech Engineering firm and the McGill Genome Center.
Biotechnology & Artificial Intelligence - The use of A.I. in biotechnology plays a crucial role in creating new products for the benefit of humanity and the planet. Students will learn how modern technologies can influence biological processes, cells and molecules to allow humans and organisms to adapt to the complex and ever-changing environment in which we live. Artificial Intelligence is advancing at an exponential rate and students will learn about the 4 different types of AI and their potential for impacting the course of human history.
Engineering - Students will dive into the different types of engineering and how they can be used to innovate technological advances and improve the world around us. Engineering at its core is the application of science and mathematics to solve problems. While scientists and innovators come up with novel ideas, engineers are the key components in putting these discoveries into practice and applying them to the real world.
Week 3: Engineering the Future
Longevity: Food, Nutrition, and Body Chemistry - The possibility of a comprehensive, preventative medicine for disorders associated with aging has expanded with the realization that aging can be slowed down by dietary, genetic, and pharmaceutical interventions. Students will learn about the role that nutrition plays in increasing our lifespan and how recent advances in our understanding of body chemistry can greatly improve our quality of life.
Sports & Exercise Science - Students will gain an understanding of sports performance and the different factors that affect behavior in sports. A concentration on the study of human movement will be viewed from a variety of different perspectives. The principles of human structure and function will be covered as they learn about the relationship between diet and the body, how to condition the body and how to prevent injuries and illnesses. Enjoy an industry visit in the afternoon.
Green Technologies - Encompassed in a wide area of scientific research, green technologies include everything from energy and atmospheric science to hydrology and material science. Students will discover how utilizing science and technology may lessen the effects of humans on the environment. They will learn how to use technology in an eco-friendly manner with alternative fuels to generate clean energy without endangering the survival of the planet and its natural systems.
Virtual Reality and Web 3.0 - The future of reality and the world we interact with lies in the hands of technological advancements and integrated technologies. Web 3.0 allows developers to access new online landscapes that were not available to us just a few years ago. Students will discover how virtual reality creates an entirely new way to connect with people and visit environments our ancestors only dreamed about. They will learn how full immersion can be experienced in a virtual space and how this may impact the future of humanity.
8:00 AM Wake Up
8:30 AM Breakfast
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Morning STEM Module
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Afternoon STEM Module
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Student's Choice (sports, fitness center, exploring, free time)
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Dinner
9:00 PM - 11:00 PM Evening Activities
Founded over 200 years ago in 1821, McGill University has become one of the most well-known Canadian institutions and one of the leading universities in the world. Globally recognized for the quality of its research and teaching initiatives, McGill is renowned for fostering advancement in every field imaginable. With over 150 countries represented in the student body, McGill University has seen more students win national and international awards than any other Canadian university.
International Jazz Festival
A summer in Montreal is not complete without taking in this premiere event, featuring thousands of artists and hundreds of free outdoor performances. Join the rest of the city (and the world) in the celebration.
Old Montreal
Explore the charming cobblestone streets and unique European flare of the city’s most famous landmark: the Old Port. From street performers and beautiful architecture to local cafes in hidden alleys, you will discover something new every visit.
La Ronde – Six Flags Amusement Park
Enjoy thrilling roller coasters and other exciting rides, including La Ronde’s famous Monster, the world’s tallest wooden double roller coaster. In the evening, you will delight in a breathtaking firework display.
Jet Boating
View the Montreal skyline from your cruise along the St. Lawrence River – and get soaked! This exhilarating ride through the Lachine Rapids is more exciting than you could imagine.
“Just For Laughs” Comedy Festival
Laugh the night away at the world’s largest international comedy festival! This two-week event, featuring hundreds of artists and performances, will be a highlight of your summer.
The Tam-Tams
A weekly impromptu weekly free festival in the middle of the city? Only in Montreal! “The Tams” is a colorful gathering of drummers, dancers, vendors and their admiring audiences that takes place every Sunday at the foot of Mount Royal.
The Food!
Montreal bagels, smoked meat and their famous poutine! Understand for yourself what all the fuss is about. Everything else is just an imitation.
Atwater Market & Lachine Canal
Bike along the water of the Lachine Canal and wind your way through the city’s Old Port until you reach the Atwater Market, a farmers’ market offering the best of Montreal and Quebec delicacies.
Saint-Laurent & Sainte-Catherine
Each with its own personality, discover what makes these streets famous Montreal destinations. From one-of-a-kind shops and funky cafes with streetside terraces to multilevel street art murals, there’s something for everyone!
Mount Royal
The heart and pride of Montreal, Mount Royal comes alive during the summer with the weekly “Tam-Tams”, hiking and biking trails, street vendors and food trucks. Choose to sunbathe, enjoy a picnic lunch or join a beach volleyball game.
Bell Centre Tour
Explore the home of the Montreal Canadiens and discover the ins and outs of the NHL’s most winning team.
Montreal Urban Zipline
Enjoy a thrilling experience as you fly over Bonsecours Island in the Old Port.
Located 90 minutes from Montreal, in the Laurentian Mountains, the modern, picturesque Mont-Tremblant village is the sister of its West Coast affiliate, Whistler Blackcomb, and offers shops, luxury accommodations and amazing restaurants. No wonder it has been voted Best Ski Resort in eastern North America by Ski Magazine for 12 years running. Make sure to sample a delicious crepe and a Canadian “BeaverTail”.
Other activities include: Luge ride, beach club.
Choosing the right college for your academic and personal interests is the first step in the application process. It requires careful research and self-evaluation. This interactive workshop provides you with tools and resources to help you develop a list of criteria integral in choosing appropriate colleges. Explore the basic elements of the college application and learn the ins and outs of the Common Application. Develop your academic/co-curricular profile, learn how to craft a high caliber application and set up your timeline for completion of applications, supplements and essays.
Explore different essay topics and strategies to write a proper admission essay that distinguishes you. As one of the top qualitative measures in the admissions process, your personal essay is an integral part of your application. As a critical aspect of your first impression to an admissions officer, the essay is an opportunity for you to share your stories, adding greater depth and dimension to your application. This workshop includes an overview of fundamental writing skills using real examples of college essays. The focus is on practical tips for writing a great college essay, including finding your voice, brainstorming essay ideas, understanding the prompts, focusing on a theme and the importance of editing and proofreading.
Founded in 1821, McGill has developed a renowned international reputation for academic excellence. This tour shows you around the main downtown campus.
After clicking “Enroll Now” you will be redirected to enroll on the “Pre-College Enrichment Montreal – on the Campus of McGill” program, as this career experience is the full-day STEM course. Contact us if you have questions.
Residence La Citadelle – McGill University
Say hello to La Citadelle, your hotel-like summer residence in the heart of downtown Montreal, steps away from chic cafés, boutiques, and parks. All rooms feature individual twin beds, air conditioning, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, housekeeping services and personal work desks. The residence is a short walking distance to class, and offers a laundry room and group common areas.
Positive Social Experience
This program is designed to give you a taste of the excitement and independence you will experience in college. Just like in college, you will be part of a large group of students, live in a residence, and have your choice of classes. And like in college, you will enjoy a warm, family environment within your residence where you enjoy many opportunities to socialize with other students.
Flight to Montreal
As a participant in our STEM Experience program, you may fly to Montreal and be greeted upon arrival and enjoy complimentary transfer (for flights in designated times) from the airport to your accommodations. For those requiring, we are happy to assist you with arranging flights to and from the program. If you prefer, you may be dropped off directly on the campus of Mcgill University and meet your staff there.
Return Flight Home from Montreal
For your return from Montreal for flights in designated times, we provide airport transfer and our leaders help you to check in and remain in the airport until flights have departed.
Food & Meals
A big part of your summer program’s success depends on how well you eat. We are proud of the fact that year after year we are complimented for our quality, quantity and choice of food! Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a healthy variety of hot and cold choices. For lunch, you enjoy the choice of eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés and small restaurants. For dinner, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups to sample quainter places with a variety of cuisines. Food options are varied and plentiful.
We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.
Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. You will have the opportunity to do laundry at your convenience by dropping it off at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.
What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, day excursions, Wi-Fi, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.
Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.
Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!
Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Commuter students join for 11 class days. Actual schedule varies depending on the week and is listed below. Commuter students arrive on campus in time for the start of their 10:00 AM morning class and depart campus after their afternoon course, generally between 4:00 – 4:30 PM. They will join any out-of-class site visits or field trips that are part of their course. In addition, we welcome commuter students to join our optional college admissions workshops.
Commuter Tuition – $3,199
Class Schedule:
Week 1: July 2, 3, 4
Week 2: July 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Week 3: July 15, 16, 17
College Admissions Workshops are on Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 12 from 10:00 – 11:30 AM.
How to Enroll: To enroll on the Commuter Option please complete this online application.
Note: Commuter students will have limited access to McGill’s recreational facilities. Supplementary course fees may apply on select courses. Meals not included.
Upon completion of the program, additional benefits include:
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?
Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
What if I need to contact my teen during the program?
Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.
Will attending one of your programs help me get into college?
Attending a summer program is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow into a more well-rounded, mature individual. No matter what type of program you choose, the personal development and experience gained over the course of the summer are valuable resources that could help you with your college essays and applications. If your goal for the summer is to get a head start on college prep, a Career Experience or Pre-College Enrichment program could be just what you need. So while attending any particular summer program will not necessarily get you into your choice school, what you get from it can make a difference!