NSHSS is proud to partner with the Environmental Studies Summer Youth Institute (ESSYI) to offer NSHSS members a special tuition scholarship.

ESSYI is a two-week academic enrichment program that provides talented, rising high school juniors and seniors with a college-level, hands-on learning experience that explores the many disciplines, tools and approaches needed to address complex, environmental issues. The mission of ESSYI is to empower students with the confidence, capacity, and tools to change the world. At the same time, the program helps students understand the variety of collegiate and career opportunities that are related to one’s interest in the environment.

"What's really unique about ESSYI is that it's deeply connected to the liberal arts," says Professor of Education Jim MaKinster, the director of ESSYI. "Its foundation is in the liberal arts education at Hobart and William Smith, which gives the students an interdisciplinary view of environmental issues, while engaging them to solve real-world problems."

MaKinster says ESSYI students arrive on campus from high schools across the United States and around the world. He says they are always a highly engaged group. After the graduates of ESSYI attend college, MaKinster says they have gone on to rewarding careers in all types of fields, from education and politics to environmental work and writing professions.

"They're talented and ambitious - they're as competitive as the most high-achieving students you'd find at any high school," MaKinster says. "And what's wonderful, is that they're always just a really enjoyable group of students to work with."

Founded in 1993, ESSYI annually hosts 30-35 students, many who attend the program thanks to scholarships provided by private foundations and public organizations. Since its inception, scholarships totaling more than $150,000 have been awarded through ESSYI - and as the program continues to receive wider recognition - it is seeking to expand its connections, both at the local and national levels.

NSHSS scholars are invited to apply to the ESSYI Tuition Scholarship Competition using the regular application process on the ESSYI website. When applying, we ask that you indicate that you are applying for an NSHSS scholarship in the application section entitled “Academic Interests.”

Alternatively, you may also use the “Request Information” section of the website to request a brochure, information about the Colleges, and paper application materials.

The winner will be chosen based on a combination of academic ability, a teacher’s recommendation, and a personal statement. The personal statement should be environmentally focused and provide us with insight into who you are and how you think.

There are three scholarship awards of $600 each available.

The $25 application fee will be waived for all National Society of High School Scholars. The deadline to apply is March 25th, 2016.

More information about ESSYI, total cost, and an online application are available at:

http://essyi.hws.edu