SMASH RESIDENTIAL
Our Intensive & Holistic STEM-Focused Program
Engaging scholars from all backgrounds through an intense STEM-focused curriculum to pursue STEM degrees and careers.
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SMASH seniors intend to major in CS at 1.5x the rate of the national average (72% vs 45%)
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SMASH alumni complete a major in CS at 2x the rate of the national average (72% vs 34%)
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98% of SMASH scholars mastered computer science technical skills assessed at the end of the program
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96% of SMASH scholars mastered computational thinking skills assessed at the end of the program
SMASH Residential, our flagship program, is a FREE, 1-year, intensive STEM-focused program that empowers students to deepen their talents and pursue STEM careers. Scholars are immersed in tuition-free studies in partnership with leading universities throughout the country for one summer. During the program, scholars build relationships with facilitators and STEM professionals. Students connect more deeply with and gain true mentorship from these STEM professionals. As they go through the program, scholars not only develop their skills and network – they also further develop their voice & build the confidence to become who they want to be.
HOW IT WORKS
Students gain access to the following:
- A free summer of residential programming
- Computer Science (CS), College Success, and Electives courses
- Networking events STEM professionals
- A robust community of peers and support that will last a lifetime
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must meet all the eligibility requirements listed below to be considered for SMASH (no exceptions).
- GPA: Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA or equivalent.
- Grade Level: Be in the 10th or 11th grade at the time of application.
- Math Skills: Have strong mathematics skills appropriate for your grade level, as determined by your state-standardized math test scores.
- Attend a public high school or private high school via scholarship.
- Location: SMASH Academy will give preference to applicants who attend our target schools within the radius at our current SMASH locations: Atlanta, Boston, Detroit/Ann Arbor, and Bay Area. However, if your school is not on the list and you live within the radius, you are still welcome to apply.
- CS Interest: Must have a strong interest in obtaining a computer science degree or certification and pursuing a career in CS.
- Applicants to SMASH Morehouse must be male, and SMASH Spelman must be female.
OUR UNIVERSITY PARTNERS
SMASH VIRTUAL
Inform, Inspire, And Activate
An online platform that provides students early exposure to STEM topics and career professionals.
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schools used the platform through our partnership with Elite Gaming Live
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WHAT IS SMASH VIRTUAL?
Since nearly 50% of students still lack opportunities to take CS courses in their schools, SMASH Virtual provides virtual courses on topics including AI/ML, cybersecurity, and programming, to ensure all students have the opportunity to gain foundational knowledge and skills for future CS educational pathways.
CONNECT WITH STEM PROFESSIONALS
Reaching a wider national audience, SMASH Virtual provides early exposure to STEM topics, STEM career professionals, and empowers youth to address pressing issues through hackathons and open innovation challenges. These provide an on-ramp to other programs, courses, offerings, and more.
COLLEGE + ALUMNI RESOURCES
We created a college + career digital hub to guide scholars through every stage of their STEM journey—starting in high school, through college, and into careers. Whether you’re a SMASH alum or a student exploring what’s next, this space is built for you.
OUR PARTNERS
SMASH ALUMNI
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders
The SMASH Alumni programming is dedicated to supporting our graduates as they transition from high school to college and beyond. Our goal is to provide continuous resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to ensure our alumni succeed in their academic and professional endeavors. We are committed to fostering a lifelong community.
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85% of SMASH Alumni graduate from college within six years, compared to the national average of 60%
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Over 70% of SMASH Alumni pursue careers in STEM fields
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2x The rate at which SMASH Alumni complete a major in CS compared to the national average
COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES OUR ALUMNI ATTEND
