Exploring Engineering at Loyola Marymount University (LMU) - Should You Apply?
If you’re a high school student interested in STEM, especially engineering, a summer program can be a good way to explore this interest, learn more about the discipline, and even do engineering projects! Such programs give you a head start on high school and college academics and help make the transition to university easier.
Moreover, extra-curricular programs prove a demonstrated and sustained interest in a subject, which college admissions boards value highly!
In this blog, we’ll review the Exploring Engineering program at Loyola Marymount University, providing information on its features, cost, curriculum, structure, and pros and cons, ending with our review of the program.
What is LMU’s Exploring Engineering?
Loyola Marymount University's (LMU) Exploring Engineering program is an intensive four-week residential program for high schoolers keen on learning the fundamentals and applications of engineering. The program provides a fairly comprehensive overview of the mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering disciplines through creative tasks, problem-solving activities, and teamwork. Participating in this program can help you understand the intricacies of engineering design, from conceptualization to implementation, while gaining exposure to various engineering tools and software used in the field.
How much does Exploring Engineering cost?
The program costs $10,000. This includes tuition, housing, meals, course materials, recreation, field trips, and weekend social trips.
Is the program prestigious?
Exploring Engineering is a moderately prestigious program with low selectivity. LMU ranks #23 nationally for engineering, assuring you of quality instruction. However, the program is quite expensive, and a minimum GPA isn’t required, making it less selective than other programs.
Who is eligible to apply?
All rising high school seniors are eligible to apply. International students are also eligible. You must have completed an algebra course in high school to be eligible for the program.
What is the application process like?
To apply, you must fill online application. This includes submitting the following:
A 500-word personal essay on the following prompt — “Please evaluate why you have selected your summer program of choice and explain how you think attending summer programs at LMU will assist you with your future educational or career goals.”
A letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor.
Your official high school transcripts. Note: you must have completed algebra before the start of the program.
The $65 application fee.
What are the important dates?
The 2025 program will likely be held in June and July. The 2024 dates were June 23 to July 19. There is no application deadline. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will shut once seats are full.
How is the Exploring Engineering program structured?
Exploring Engineering’s curriculum covers both theoretical knowledge and practical applications of engineering. There is a strong emphasis on project-based learning supported by LMU’s engineering labs and a pedagogy that provides solid exposure to industry-standard software. You'll learn both manual and computer graphics in engineering design and basic tools like spreadsheets. The program emphasizes scientific communication, ensuring you can easily convey your ideas.
You will work in groups to complete projects; past examples of group projects include building a robot that could go a kilometer into the sea and collect water samples to test for mycobacteria and phytoplankton. You present your project and findings to faculty and peers.
By the end of the program, you'll have developed a strong foundation in engineering principles and gained practical project experience. Successful completion of the course also awards you 3 units of college credit.
What are the pros and cons of the program?
Pros:
You will learn a lot: Exploring Engineering’s curriculum is fairly comprehensive and includes hands-on, team-based projects to help you learn both the theory and practical application of engineering principles.
You will be introduced to several engineering disciplines: The program is structured to help you explore different engineering disciplines like civil, mechanical, and electrical, letting you explore each and decide where your interest lies.
You can avail of multiple networking opportunities: you’ll get to interact with industry professionals, professors, and peers during the four-week program. This can help you establish vital connections that can help you narrow your career path and land future job opportunities.
You can earn college credit: Completing the course will give you three college credits, providing a head start on your higher education.
You can apply as an international student: All rising high school seniors, including those who do not live in the U.S., can apply.
Cons:
The program is extremely expensive: At $10,000, Exploring Engineering costs significantly more than other paid, residential programs (paid residential programs usually cost between $5,000 and $7,000). This price point is likely beyond the reach of many bright, deserving candidates.
You can’t avail of any financial aid: On top of the high fees, there is no financial aid on offer, further making this program hard to attend.
The program is residential-only: You can’t attend the program as a commuter student, which would have helped reduce costs.
Is Exploring Engineering Right for You?
Exploring Engineering at LMU is an expensive but potentially valuable opportunity for high school students passionate about engineering. The program's curriculum, faculty, and pedagogy provide a solid foundation if you decide to pursue the subject further. Participating will earn you college credit, which can be useful. However, given the program’s steep cost, it's essential to carefully consider your personal goals before applying.
One other option - the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, you could also consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a Harvard College graduate. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
Comentários