Governor's School in the Sciences (NJGSS)

# Governor's School in the Sciences (NJGSS) The Governor's School in the Sciences (NJGSS) is a prestigious, tuition-free, residential summer program hosted by Drew University in Madison, New Jersey. Designed for high-achieving high school students entering their senior year, this program provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve deep into advanced STEM topics, including chemistry, physics, and biology. NJGSS brings together some of New Jersey’s brightest young minds to explore cutting-edge scientific research and applications in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. ## Program Structure NJGSS is an **in-person program** that takes place on Drew University's campus over several weeks during the summer. The program is fully residential, meaning students will live on campus throughout the duration. The curriculum includes a mix of: - **Core STEM coursework** in fields like chemistry, physics, and biology - **Research projects** where students work in teams to investigate real-world scientific problems - **Guest lectures** from distinguished experts in academia and industry - **Workshops and seminars** on advanced STEM topics and career exploration - **Group presentations** and opportunities to share findings with peers and faculty Participants benefit from small class sizes and hands-on experiences designed to challenge their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. ## What Students Experience Students at NJGSS engage in a rigorous academic program that combines theoretical learning with practical application. They will: - Conduct collaborative research under the mentorship of Drew University faculty and other established STEM professionals - Gain hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and tools - Participate in lectures and discussions on emerging topics in STEM, including interdisciplinary areas - Build lasting relationships with like-minded peers who share a passion for science and innovation - Develop presentation and teamwork skills through group research projects and formal presentations The program fosters intellectual curiosity and provides a supportive environment for students to push the boundaries of their scientific understanding. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in NJGSS is an impressive achievement that can significantly enhance a student’s college application. The program is highly selective, making admission a strong indicator of academic excellence and a genuine passion for STEM. Students leave the program with valuable research experience, advanced knowledge in STEM fields, and demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills—all of which can set them apart in the college admissions process. Additionally, the relationships formed with peers and mentors often lead to valuable networking opportunities that may extend far beyond the program. ## Eligibility NJGSS is open to **New Jersey high school students who will be entering their senior year (11th grade applicants only)**. Applicants should have a strong academic record, particularly in science and mathematics, and a demonstrated interest in pursuing STEM-related studies or careers. While the program is completely tuition-free, students must commit to full participation, including residing on campus for the entirety of the program. ## How to Participate To apply for NJGSS, students must complete a competitive application process that typically includes: 1. Submitting an online application form 2. Providing academic transcripts and standardized test scores 3. Obtaining teacher recommendations 4. Writing personal essays detailing their interest in STEM and reasons for applying Deadlines for the application are typically in the spring preceding the summer program, but students should check the NJGSS website for the most up-to-date information. For more details and to access the application, visit the official [Drew University NJGSS webpage](https://www.drew.edu). Participating in the Governor's School in the Sciences is an incredible opportunity to explore advanced STEM concepts, build meaningful connections, and prepare for future academic and professional success in science and technology.