Girls' Academy
of Science and Mathematics

Alverno's Girls' Academy is a free, after-school program for high school junior and senior girls who want to learn science and math through real-world applications.

The Girls’ Academy is designed to prepare students for success in college by building stronger skills, greater confidence and an improved understanding of applying, affording and thriving in a college environment.

Increase your knowledge and skills in science and math using a learning approach specifically designed for girls and women in the sciences.

Program Details

WHEN:
Fridays from 4-7 p.m., running from late October through May.

WHERE:
The program meets in person every other week, alternating with online meetings in the opposite weeks.

WHY:
Apply science and math to learn about beauty/cosmetics or your favorite foods by working with college professors in a real science lab. 

Juniors (first-year students) will look at the structures and properties of common substances used in the beauty industry, and their effect on the environment and health. You will develop and test your own lotions, soaps, and fragrances. 

Seniors (second-year students) will investigate what makes your favorite foods look, taste and smell so good. Students will use their taste buds as well as scientific equipment to test foods prepared in different ways. Students will then create their own recipes based on chemical principles that make cooking creative and fun. 

Girls' Academy Scholarship

Through successful and active participation in the Girls’ Academy at Alverno College, you will be eligible for an Alverno Academy Scholarship to be used toward an undergraduate degree pursued at Alverno. You will have the opportunity to earn money toward your degree at the recommendation of faculty, based on the criteria listed below. 

The following criteria must be fulfilled to be considered for an Alverno Academy Scholarship:

• Participate in one year of the Girls’ Academy. You will be eligible for the scholarship if you attend for your junior year or senior year. Participation in both years is not a requirement but does make your application more competitive.
• Maintain excellent attendance and participation. Excellent attendance is defined as missing no more than three academy classes (and/or Zoom sessions/participation projects when online) if you are a junior, and no more than four classes (and/or Zoom sessions/participation projects when online) if you are a senior.
• Complete all assessments required by the Girls’ Academy including the pre-, mid-, and post-program ACT exams (juniors only), the pre- and post-program problem solving assessment (juniors and seniors) and post-program evaluation (juniors and seniors).
• Receive a written recommendation from the Girls’ Academy of Science and Mathematics. The recommendation can come from any of the instructors or the Girls’ Academy Coordinator.
• Apply to and be accepted into Alverno College as an undergraduate student. This requires you to meet all normal admissions requirements established by Alverno College. Additional information and specific admissions requirements can be found here or by contacting the Alverno College Admissions department.