Read comics? Interested in making them? In this hands-on class, we'll read a few short comics, and then make our own. In the process, we'll think about what a comic is, and go over some basic techniques for drawing, planning, and producing traditional mini comics (even if you have limited or no experience).

Expect to draw throughout the class, come up with and work on an idea for a short comic, and do a "gallery walk" in the end where other students in the class will read your comic and leave their (positive) thoughts. Paper will be provided, but please bring pencils and a ruler.


Prerequisites
(1) An interest in comics, storytelling, graphic novels, and/or manga, (2) You don't have to be good at drawing! All levels of experience are welcome., (3) You can bring/work with digital drawing tools if you like, but the class will be taught primarily through pen/paper.

An introductory class to hand-built ceramics! Learn to pinch pot and coil.

A free space for students of all ages to work on independent art projects of any medium.


Prerequisites
Some experience with art is recommended, though not required.

Learning the basics of rhythm and exploring sound. We will experiment with percussion (making beats) primarily with ordinary objects as well as our bodies. Come with an open mind, high energy, and be ready to move!

This course introduces students in grades 7-12 to the art of card magic, focusing on foundational techniques and performance skills. Students will learn essential sleight-of-hand techniques, including the double lift, false shuffles and cuts, and various card forces. Emphasis will be placed on misdirection, presentation, and building confidence in performance. By the end of the course, students will be able to execute a series of professional-level card tricks and develop an understanding of the psychological principles behind effective magic. No prior experience is required—just a deck of cards and a passion for learning.


Prerequisites
Bring your own playing cards if you can!

Architecture has been an art form for centuries. The design of buildings can represent history, a person's values, or even the future. This course will cover how architecture is a way of expressing yourself, how architecture can create community, and examples of famous buildings and their impacts throughout the world, while doing a few fun activities along the way.

Ever wondered how a single piece of paper can transform into intricate structures? Explore the art of modular origami! Our class unveils the secrets behind creating stunning sculptures from multiple folded units, offering a hands-on journey into creativity and precision. Join us and unfold the magic!

Have you dreamed of making a movie but lacked the budget or resources to pull it off? With stop-motion animation, you can create entire worlds on any scale. This technique has been used in iconic films like Shaun the Sheep, Wallace and Gromit, and even early Star Wars and Godzilla movies. This class provides an introduction to the fundamentals of stop-motion animation. Students will learn about some essential techniques including storytelling, framing, animation principles, lighting, and editing.


Prerequisites
A smartphone with a camera Bring a couple LEGO minifigures if you'd like to try animating with them!

What if I told you that Star Trek helped invent the cell phone, or that 1984 predicted our surveillance culture? Science fiction isn’t just about wild ideas—it shapes the way we think about the future, and sometimes, it even creates it.

In this class, we’ll explore how sci-fi has influenced real-world science, from AI and space travel to climate change and bioengineering. We’ll dive into utopian dreams, dystopian nightmares, and apocalyptic warnings to see how they reflect (and sometimes steer) history. Along the way, we’ll debate whether sci-fi is just good storytelling or a self-fulfilling prophecy. Expect thought-provoking discussions, fun creative exercises, and a deep dive into the power of storytelling to shape what comes next.

In this course we will cover some basic principles and concepts essential to making race cars fast and reliable. We will cover basic racing theory, tire dynamics, suspension setup, and weight transfer. If we have time we may cover some introductory aerodynamics. The class will be centered around the design of the Yale racing team's newest formula electric vehicle with demonstrations of how designing and tuning a race car actually works.


Prerequisites
Basic trigonometry and algebra useful but not necessary.

37.4 billion metric tons of CO2 were emitted in 2024. But there's still hope -- learn what YOU can BUILD to save our planet. This course is an invigorating introduction to emerging climate technologies, technologies that mitigate, prevent, or build resilience against climate change. Starting with an overview of nature-based solutions vs. geoengineering, we will dive into a selection of the following climate technologies: carbon capture and storage (CCS), enhanced rock weathering, direct air capture, reforestation/afforestation, biochar, sustainable steel and cement, sustainable aviation fuel, batteries and the power grid, maritime decarbonization, biodiversity tech, and more. Emphasis on both the built environment and hardware, as well as software and artificial intelligence applications. We will explore the technology, leading companies pioneering in this space, and financing the pathway to net-zero.


Prerequisites
None. Basic physical science optional but encouraged.

Why do we get angry at others for their opinions? Why do we hate them?
This course will attempt to answer these questions from an interdisciplinary lens, drawing on multiple aspects of psychology (namely, in/out groups, implicit biases, and neuroscience) to derive a reasonable explanation! All this will culminate in a discussion of the ethical implications of hating someone.

Dragons, cyborgs, and mermaids, oh my!

Speculative fiction is the umbrella term for stories that take place in settings different from reality. Speculative fiction subgenres include: fantasy, science fiction, horror, superhero fiction, dystopia, apocalyptic, and more!

We will learn about the history of speculative fiction, different branches of the genre, and tips on how to craft your own speculative fiction stories and worlds! Whether you’re an aspiring fantasy author, avid science fiction reader, or a curious adventurer, all who are interested in exploring the wild, weird, and wonderful world of speculative fiction are welcome!

Students should bring a writing utensil & something to write on!

Hippocrates is known as the "Father of Medicine" yet we actually know almost nothing about him. In fact, the collection of texts associated with him know as the "Hippocratic Corpus" were not written by him. Galen of Pergamon, a physician in Alexandria, claimed his own work to be an extension of Hippocrates' as a way to enhance the credibility of his own ideas. Following this tradition, the Anti-Vaccine movement makes use of Hippocrates and his associated Hippocratic texts to further their own agendas. In this class, we will look at selections of these texts as well as some anti-vaccine claims on X (formerly Twitter) to examines the misuse and abuse of Hippocrates.

Where does bread come from, and will we always have it?

This course will briefly examine how grain (especially wheat, rice, and corn) is grown across the world, and how that is likely to change with climate change.
Class will start with a short presentation covering the geography of where grains are grown, with some economic consideration of how they are produced, marketed, and consumed. An in-class activity will then involve close reading and discussion of selections from expert reports on climate change and agriculture. We will conclude by discussing the political issues raised by agricultural changes, focusing mostly on the U.S. context.


Prerequisites
Students should be prepared to read and discuss during class.

James Bond. Ethan Hunt. Jack Ryan. The world of intelligence and espionage has long captivated popular culture. But what does intelligence actually look like? More importantly, what does it mean? Is it more than just wearing a suit, rappelling down a skyscraper, and looking at a stack of manila folders? This course intends to answer those questions and demystify the cloak-and-dagger work of spycraft. In doing so, its intention is that you will develop a keen understanding of intelligence and espionage in the real world. We will look at how spies conduct their work by examining the intelligence process. We will also study key players in the world of espionage, namely the members of the U.S. Intelligence Community. Lastly, we will discuss the history of modern espionage by looking at several case studies, followed by an analytical simulation where students will play the role of analysts, receive “intelligence,” and make assessments based on that knowledge.

Who was "Old Hickory"? What was Franklin Roosevelt's "alphabet soup"? Is Kamala Harris truly "brat"? Students will answer these important questions in this survey of the American Democratic Party, from its experimental beginnings during the Jacksonian era to its current position following the 2024 presidential election. We will examine pivotal moments in the party’s history, including the New Deal coalition, the Civil Rights Movement, and the presidency of Barack Obama. This course invites students to reflect on what the Democratic Party was, is, and should be in the future, analyzing its shifting ideologies and role in shaping American democracy.

The most influential band in history. The most successful musical act of all time. What else is to be said about the Beatles? In this course, we will journey on a Magical Mystery Tour of the Beatles’ history and impact, tracking the band’s musical evolution by listening to their music and analyzing their lyrics. We will also position the Beatles in their historical context as a band that broke the American mainstream at the right time and became the figureheads of a socio-cultural rebellion against the Western status quo. Class discussions about the broader impact of their music to the major socio-cultural and political shift of the 1960s hope to shed a critical understanding of this era of Western world history. We will zoom out and look at the Beatles in the modern era. Could there be another Beatles, a musical act revered critically by the masses with monumental commercial success? What does it mean to be the most commercially successful band AND considered “the greatest” band in history? This course hopes to introduce students to mid-20th century England and the United States, and instill further exploration into the Beatles’ extensive discography.


Prerequisites
Basic interest in music history. All are welcome, from first time listeners to lifelong Beatlemaniacs!

Gonzo Journalism throws the reporter into the heart of the story, breaking the usual rules and capturing raw, first-person accounts. In this class, you’ll learn how to immerse yourself in every angle, translating personal experience into sharp, authentic storytelling. We’ll explore the style’s roots, its influence on modern media, and how you can harness its bold approach to bring your writing to life.

Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is one of the easiest languages to learn as an English speaker — there are no tenses, the grammar is extremely simple, and it's written in the Latin alphabet. Come learn some simple words and phrases from one of the world's 200 million Indonesian speakers! Students will leave being able to carry very basic conversation in Bahasa Indonesia and knowing a bit more about Indonesian culture.

A first look into the world of art history, visual analysis, and visual & material culture through how animals are represented and what those representations tell us about wider histories and cultures. Topics we will look at and discuss include dogs in Mary Oliver’s poetry, how dogs and cats appear in portrait paintings, beasts and the medieval Bestiary, the myths of the unicorn including horses and their respective relations to both masculinity and femininity, and the collecting of animals (menageries, zoos, cabinets of curiosity, taxidermy) and its relation to imperialism, masculinity, expansion, and science.

Welcome to the beginning Finnish class! As one of the few non Indo-European languages, Finnish is quite a unique and fun language. You’ll learn how to greet people, introduce yourself, and say a few basic phrases. We’ll also explore some interesting facts about Finland, like its stunning nature, saunas, and unique traditions. By the end of the class, you’ll be able to say “Hei!” (Hello), “Mitä kuuluu?” (How are you?), and “Kiitos!” (Thank you). Get ready for an interactive class filled with fun, song, and maybe even a virtual trip to Finland!

Identity is an unwieldy concept. How do we know something is the thing we believe it to be? How do we categorize things, places, and especially, people? And are these categories produced from individual and/or collective action? By examining cultural artifacts from the 21st century, we will consider how representation has benefitted and harmed populations, especially Black communities in the United States. Key texts include Beyoncé's album, "Lemonade," TIME Magazine's articles on Barack Obama's 2008 presidential victory, and artifacts from the Black Lives Matter movement. This class will provide essential tools to express and interpret this problem of representation and how we may intervene upon it.

Ever imagined what Gatsby's world looked like? Did you know there were castles nestled on the shoreline right across from us? This course will investigate the enthralling history of Long Island's Gold Coast castles and its golden era, as well of the context and world of "The Great Gatsby." There will be no spoilers of the book, nor any need for background knowledge, but we will look into the world it was based in!


Prerequisites
Having read F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" is helpful, but it is in no way required!

Incarceration. Roe vs. Wade. Maternal health. Obstetric racism. Climate change. LGBTQ+ rights. How do all of these topics (and more) relate? Under the framework that is reproductive justice all of these concepts form a complex web that impacts us all.

When Roe vs. Wade was overturned in 2022, this decision sent shockwaves through The United States.

This basic introduction will attempt to take students through what reproductive justice is and how it relates to our lives and to everyone.

We will also look at historical and contemporary legislation relating to the policing of women's bodies, pregnant people, marginalized communities, and pregnant people, and how Roe vs. Wade was only mean to be the beginning of the movement.

We will attempt to look at how a variety of factors, ranging from intersectionality, racism, sexism, white supremacy, and more all work to control women, queer people, black people, and their bodies.

As they say, knowledge is power. Come prepared to think and discuss.


Prerequisites
This is only an introduction and we unfortunately can't cover everything I'd like to within an hour. However I'd like to let students know that this course will deal with heavy topics, with some possible trigger warnings, please be advised.

So, you want to reform English spelling.

I don't blame you. After all, English spelling is famously confusing. Words like "height", "phlegm", and "psychology" are full of silent letters. "Through", "though", "tough", "cough", and "plough" don't rhyme for some reason. And what's up with the letter C? Why not just replace it with K and S? Clearly, we need a redo.

In this class, we'll try to do just that: fix English spelling. And in the process we'll dive into the wonderful field of linguistics. Our journey will take us through English sounds, Latin roots, British dialects, Noah Webster's dictionary, and the Norman Conquest of 1066. We'll use the tools linguists use to describe languages, and we'll analyze spelling reforms of the past. By the end of the hour, we'll have looked at several different ways to "fix" English spelling, and we might even grow an appreciation for English spelling as it is.

"Freedom is nothing but the distance between the hunter and the hunted."
—Bei Dao, "Accomplices"

Why do we study history? What is our historical responsibility? In today's world, governments teeter towards authoritarianism, democracies towards far-right populism, and truth is constant reinvented through censorship and the rewriting of historical memory. What is the role of an individual in face of these alarming societal currents -- the role of the philosopher, the poet, or the artist?

We will take a brief look through the lives and read works of two thinkers and their interlocutors: Czech dissident-playwright-philosopher Vaclav Havel, and Chinese dissident-poet Bei Dao. We will seek to understand how they come together - how Bei Dao's poetry came to be the one chanted by student protestors on Tiananmen Square in 1989 before tanks rolled over their bodies, how Vaclav Havel and his colleagues went to prison for signing a document that reaffirmed truth and civil rights against the then-Communist government, and set the dominos in motion for Czechnoslovakia's famous Velvet Revolution. We will also be engaging briefly with their contemporary and future interlocutors, including Marx, Heidegger, and Ocean Vuong.


Prerequisites
None, except for a willingness to think deeply and engage with philosophy and poetry.

An introduction to the philosophy of stoicism. Topics will cover ethics and natural philosophy, and the class will include advice for forming discipline and finding purpose. If put into practice, stoicism strengthens your mind to form good habits, benefit your mental health, and become a better person. Stoicism is one of the most misunderstood philosophies of the ancient world, and its relevance is equally (if not more) important in the modern world than it was in Ancient Greece and Rome.

This course explores the dynamics and politics of Chinese-American citizenship from early discriminatory policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 to progressing moments of activism, cultural renaissance, and political representation. Students will uncover how Chinese-Americans have shaped and been shaped by the American political and social landscape and gain a basis of knowledge on Chinese-American history.

How did people run a country 2000 years ago? Were there checks and balances, or did politicians abuse the system? Is a “republic” the same thing as a democracy? What does Rome tell us about America today, which also calls itself a “republic”? In this course, we will study the successes and failures of the government of the Roman Republic, before Rome came to be ruled by a single emperor. No prior knowledge of Roman history needed!

It’s estimated that the world has about 7000 languages, yet in our lives, we’ll only ever learn a few — in this class, we’ll take a tour of some of the coolest features of the world’s languages and writing systems, and dive into all the amazing ways humans have learned to communicate different ideas. Languages without tense or word order, languages where entire complex sentences can be a single word, writing systems with 13 symbols and writing systems with 40,000 – things you didn’t even know a language could have! No background in linguistics needed — only lots of curiosity and a desire to explore.

How do you describe something that by definition is supposed to bend all rules? Popular media is full of magical worlds, and each comes with its own system of magic: in Harry Potter, you must hold a wand and speak and incantation to cast a spell; in Dungeons & Dragons, spells are ranked by level and belong to a school, etc.
In this course, we'll practice crafting our own systems of magic and learn how authors and game designers now use the same ideas for structuring magic as early astronomers, doctors, and alchemists, as well as magicians and spiritualists, used to understand and describe the reality around them.

Students will get an overview of famous case studies, key players in psychology, learn about parts of the brain, and more.

What is hope? How can we hold onto hope when the world seems to be falling apart—and should we? How have poets thought and written about hope across centuries?

This class will explore poetry as a medium for thinking about hope. We will read, contemplate, and discuss poems by authors including Langston Hughes, Jane Hirshfield, Muriel Rukeyser, Wang Ping, Pablo Neruda, and Sarah Kay in conversation with one another. Then, we will write our own poems to reflect on how we each engage with hope.

What comes after calculus? Math, as it turns out, largely branches off into two general approaches: Analysis, studying the smooth and continuous (like calculus), and Algebra, studying structure and symmetry. The broader field of Algebra is quite different from the Algebra I & II you might have taken in school-- Algebraists unfortunately don't spend their lives studying y=mx+b.

Group theory studies symmetry, and is one of the first areas of Abstract Algebra students encounter, and it's like starting math from the beginning again. This course will focus on the visual intuitions of group theory and build toward using rigorous mathematical argument to prove theorems about groups.


Prerequisites
No hard prerequisites, but basic familiarity with sets, set builder notation, basic number theory, and proof will be very useful.

With high school on the horizon, chances are you've heard whispers of what many consider to be the hardest flavor of high school mathematics: Calculus. This class seeks to myth-bust the inflated reputation calculus has gained by offering a simple, logical perspective into the field of calculus. If you've heard of Calculus and feel anxious over it, this class is specifically for you!


Prerequisites
Algebra I

Once upon an infinity, in the Kingdom of Aleph, King Alephonso decided to put his 100 advisors to a test. He had 100 identical rooms constructed in his palace. In each room, the king placed an infinite sequence of boxes; in each box he put a real number. The sequence of numbers was exactly the same in each room, but otherwise completely arbitrary (chosen at the whim of the king).

The king told his advisors that when they were ready, each of them would be locked in one of the 100 rooms. Each of them would be allowed to open all but one of the boxes in the room. (This, of course, would take an infinite amount of time, but in the Kingdom of Aleph, they're pretty nonplussed about infinity.) Finally, each advisor would be required to name the number in the box that he or she did not open. If more than one advisor names the wrong number, they would lose their jobs and their lives.

There is no reason for anyone to hurry in the Kingdom of Aleph, and the king gives his advisors an infinite amount of time to work out a strategy — but eventually, they do have to play. Do they have any hope of making it through his cruel test alive? What should they do?


Prerequisites
None

If your computer only understands 1s and 0s, how does it communicate and reason about many different kinds of code and data - numbers, fractions, text, or even instructions? What is a von Neumann architecture? And how are these two questions related?

In this class we'll cover binary representation of integers and floating-point numbers, basics of ASCII and data structures, intro to instruction sets and microarchitecture. Time permitting, we might discuss the layered architecture of systems design.

We'll reserve some time at the end to overview the study of computer science and its subfields, if you're curious what topics are typically covered in a bachelor's program in CS!


Prerequisites
Thorough understanding of algebra, particularly exponents (~Algebra II). Also should be able to count to 16 in binary. (Bonus points for counting down from 0 to -16.) Recommended reading: https://owlcation.com/stem/How-Do-Binary-Numbers-Work

Why do people consider Einstein the smartest person in history? This course dives deep into the mind-blowing impact of relativity – Einstein's seminal invention – from exposing the cracks in Newton’s laws to unraveling the architecture of the cosmos. Einstein didn’t just rewrite the rules of physics; he opened the door to a universe far more thrilling than anyone imagined. This course will involve mind-bending concepts meet real-world wonder, with just a sprinkle of math (don’t worry, it’s straightforward algebra, and we’ve got your back). Together, we’ll unlock the intuition behind relativity and completely transform the way you see space, time, and reality itself.

Welcome (back) birders! After a quick review of how to identify birds by both sight AND sound, we'll discuss the importance of birds in the environment and the steps we can take to protect them. Plus, you'll get to make your own take-home birdfeeder! Fly on in—no prior experience needed!

Most people know who their grandparents are, and some know their great-grandparents. If you keep going back, though, you'll reach a point where your ancestors were not humans, nor even primates, nor animals, nor any life we know of today – “they” would just be some organic molecules on the early Earth, about to undergo drastic chemical changes that would mark the beginning of the first life forms. How did this transition from chemicals to life take place, and how do we know? While the origin of life is still mostly a mystery, scientists are full of ideas on how it may have happened. In this class, I will explore some of those ideas, including how to make the building blocks of proteins and DNA, then how to put those building blocks together in a simple, single-celled organism.

Students will learn about the fundamentals of green chemistry and its potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. Through hands-on experiments, real-world examples, and engaging discussions, students will learn how chemistry can create sustainable solutions in everyday life—from cleaner energy to eco-friendly materials. This course will inspire students to think creatively and critically about how chemistry can design a healthier planet, while empowering them to become part of the green revolution shaping the future of science and technology.


Prerequisites
N/A

The four fundamental forces—gravity, electromagnetism, the strong nuclear force, and the weak nuclear force—govern everything in the universe. From the formation of galaxies to the behavior of subatomic particles, these forces shape reality at every scale.

This course explores the nature of the four fundamental forces, probing the origin of these forces, interesting properties associated with each one, and how they come into play in physics and engineering.


Prerequisites
Some background in physics and math may be helpful, but not required.

Maybe you've heard about Einstein's strange and beautiful theory of special relativity: the way that time warps, space contorts, and some of our most fundamental assumptions about reality break down at high velocities. Maybe you haven't. Either way, this class will discuss where all of these mind-bending ideas come from and why you should care about them. Following in the footsteps of Einstein, we will use a series of simple "thought experiments" to gradually unravel the complexity of this theory.


Prerequisites
Students should have some exposure to physics and basic geometry.

Most people don't think twice about insects beyond killing pests and admiring butterflies, but insects are the most diverse group of land animals alive today, and have been a critical part of Earth's ecosystems since long before vertebrates ventured onto land. This class will provide a basic introduction to insect biology and ecology. Students will learn to identify a few major insect orders and understand how these animals contribute to their ecosystems.


Prerequisites
Completion of middle school life science curriculum

Are you interested in bugs? Come learn about the fabulous and indispensable minibeasts that run our world!

Due to human activity and climate change, insect numbers have been plummeting in a silent extinction most don't seem to worry about or notice.

Many people think that life would be better without bugs. Anybody that has gotten a million mosquito bites after a summer evening may agree (I certainly agree when it comes to mosquitoes!!).

However, life as we know it would be *impossible* without insects. Insects pollinate our crops, turn decaying matter into soil, and provide an essential foundation to the food chain. Come learn all about this, how to identify basic insect orders, cool bug facts, and much more!!


Prerequisites
None! Come excited to learn about bugs!

(Adapted from the same class taught by Dr. Emily Quin at the University of Cambridge).

This course will focus on the application of psychology in the United States legal system, namely in situations like witness interviews, person identification, deception, and jury decision-making. This course requires no prerequisites, and is meant to give students a brief but fun and easy-to-understand introduction to the factors that influence how the law is carried out in this country.

Join us for an exciting hands-on workshop where you’ll become a molecular biologist for the day! In this fun and interactive session, we will explore the fascinating world of DNA by extracting it from strawberries—one of the most accessible sources of genetic material. You’ll learn the science behind DNA, its role in living organisms, and why it’s often referred to as the "blueprint of life." Using everyday household items, you’ll mash, mix, and filter your way to visible strands of DNA, gaining a deeper understanding of cellular biology and genetic science. Whether you’re a budding scientist or simply curious, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to discover the building blocks of life in a fun and engaging way. Come unlock the mysteries of DNA with us!

With the consequences of climate change becoming increasingly visible around the world, discussing it has become ever more important. Yet, to fully engage in discussions about the causes, effects, and actions to solve the climate crisis, one needs a fundamental understanding of the processes that drive it.

How can a gas such as CO2 (making up only 4 molecules per every 1000 molecules in the air) have such a serious effect on the planet? In this lecture, we will try to answer this and many other questions.

The goal of this lecture is to build a fundamental intuition behind the “Physics of Climate Change”. We will largely be following Lawrence M. Krauss’s book of the same name and will discuss:

1) How did we discover climate change, and why is what is happening now unique in history?
2) How does climate change work?
3) Why is it serious, and why should we care?
4) What can we do about it?

It is impossible to fully explain all the intricacies of climate change in 1 hour. However, we will do our best! We will focus on building intuition and giving you some important facts. Hopefully, you will be left feeling more informed, interested, and ready to engage in discussions about this issue. Throughout the lecture, we will look at fundamental topics in physics, such as light and radiation, energy, and thermal expansion, in an approachable (and hopefully fun!) way.


Prerequisites
Prior physics interest and knowledge can be helpful but is absolutely not required. If you are interested in climate and/or physics, chemistry, and biology, and are not afraid of plots and graphs you are more than welcome to join!

The immune system lies in a delicate balance between the Light and the Dark, mediated by the Force: inflammation. Like in Star Wars, the mediators of inflammation work together and against each other to ensure our bodies are capable of fighting disease, toxicity, and cancer. Inflammation seems to play a role in almost every major disease (including a major role in the progression of COVID), but there's so much we still don't know about it. Do the keys to curing diseases like Alzheimer's, pulmonary fibrosis, and heart disease lie in controlling our body's inflammatory response to them?

In this course, we'll use Star Wars as an analogy to take a closer look at your immune system and the inflammatory response, especially how macrophages -- the white blood cell commanders of your disease-fighting army -- are the "chosen ones" destined to bring balance to the Forces of inflammation, and how inflammation plays a larger role in disease than you might have ever imagined.


Prerequisites
Basic biology knowledge, no knowledge of Star Wars required!

This course will introduce students to the ways in which social, environmental, and cultural conditions affect one’s health – otherwise known as a social determinants of health framework, which helps contextualize one’s health outcomes in the context of their broader life and community. For example, how does education access relate to healthcare outcomes? Or race, gender, and social class? What about material circumstances – where one lives and works? Is quality food accessible? These are the sorts of questions that we want to tackle in this course, pushing students to widen their understanding of health beyond just the individual. Ultimately, the key takeaway from this class is to recognize and address the root causes of health inequities that exist between advantaged and disadvantaged groups – and how social determinants of health shapes these inequities. Including both informative and interactive components, students will gain hands-on experience researching how social determinants of health may affect their lives and the health of those in their communities.

Global Health 101 focuses on exploring the main perspectives, goals, and challenges of work in global health. The course expands upon the interdisciplinary nature of global health to create a better understanding of the many fields that impact global health. Additionally, this course introduces the mission of Partners in Health Engage, a non-profit grassroots organization that works towards making health a human right.

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to do real chemistry research? This course introduces high school students to the exciting world of scientific discovery, focusing on how chemistry research is conducted in university labs and beyond. Students will explore different areas of chemistry, such as organic synthesis, environmental chemistry, and materials science, and learn what a typical day in the lab looks like for researchers in these fields.

We’ll also cover how students can get involved in research early, including summer programs, mentorship opportunities, and funding sources like fellowships and grants. Through interactive discussions, students will brainstorm potential research topics, learn how to find mentors, and gain insights into how chemistry research can lead to careers in medicine, engineering, sustainability, and more.

Whether you're interested in experimenting with new materials, designing sustainable chemical processes, or just curious about how science happens outside the classroom, this course will give you the tools to start exploring chemistry research at the next level!

Dive into a groundbreaking exploration of psychoactive molecules at the intersection of neuroscience, medicine, and cultural understanding. This course offers a scientifically-grounded journey through the complex world of psychoactive compounds such as psilocybin, LSD, MDMA and ketamine, challenging preconceptions and illuminating cutting-edge medical research. Unpack their biochemistry, receptor interactions and neural mechanisms, explore critically their potential of neuroplasticity and mental health treatment, and discuss approaches to studying traditional medicines with cultural respect and scientific integrity.


Prerequisites
Basic understanding of biology and chemistry might supplement your learning, but is not required. This is an introductory course, no background is required.

Life is the most complex phenomenon we know of. Exactly what is needed for life to develop? A terrestrial planet in its star's habitable zone? A rich soup of biochemical precursors? Or maybe just a sprinkle of water and methane ice on a comet?
In this course we will attempt to recreate and extend Frank Drake's famous attempt at quantifying the most complex phenomenon in the known universe. The Drake equation has just seven terms - can we do better? Or should we?

Have you ever wondered what the world would look like if you just kept zooming in? Or why light and matter sometimes behave in ways that we can't explain? These questions are all explored in the field of quantum mechanics! Quantum mechanics is a very large field that studies the very small. It has fascinating applications in chemistry, physics, and beyond. In this course, we will dive into this subject to learn more about the quantum realm and how it makes up the world as we know it!


Prerequisites
Pre-algebra

A review of the state of Astrobiology, the likelihood of alien life, and discussion on the social and ethical implications of extraterrestrial intelligence.

Diamonds, gold, emeralds, and rubies are among the most well known examples of minerals, which form the building block of our society. From glittery makeup to the copper wiring used in electronics, minerals can be found everywhere in our daily lives. That being said, what exactly are minerals? What are their properties? Where do they come from? What can we do with them? In this interactive course, we will survey a variety of minerals and their unique properties, as well as how these minerals are formed, and how they are used in everyday life.


Prerequisites
General chemistry is recommended, but not required.

Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of cardiac physiology! In this fascinating course, you'll discover how the heart works as an incredible pump, powering your entire body. We'll explore the intricate electrical system that keeps your heart beating rhythmically, utilizing the specialized pacemaker cells to the complex network of conduction pathways. You'll learn about the unique action potentials of cardiac cells and how they create the familiar ECG waveform doctors use to check your heart health. We'll dive into the mechanics of the heart, understanding how it contracts and relaxes to push blood through your body efficiently. Furthermore, you'll see how the heart adapts to different demands, like exercise or stress, through amazing mechanisms like the Frank-Starling law and touch on how the body regulates blood pressure to keep everything running smoothly. By the end of this course, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the incredible organ that keeps you alive every second of every day.
Topics: Cardiac Anatomy, Cardiac Output, Regulation, Frank-Starling, Baroreceptor Reflex, Bainbridge Reflex, Microcirculation, EKG.

What is a fossil? What does it tell us about Earth's prehistoric life, and how do we really know?

Learn about fossils of extinct invertebrates, the ancestors of our modern-day squid, octopi, sea stars, and coral. See (and touch!) fossils that older than dinosaurs, and become a paleontologist to discover when, where, and how these creatures lived.

Success isn’t just about talent or intelligence—it’s about resilience and balance. To achieve your goals without sacrificing your well-being, you need more than just grit. You need to manage stress effectively and maintain harmony in your life. This course offers practical tools for stress management and well-being, focusing on holistic practices like yoga, meditation, and Reiki. You'll learn how to cultivate self-awareness, manage stress, and enhance resilience to navigate academic and personal challenges. Additionally, we’ll introduce integrative medicine, blending traditional and modern healing methods to support your overall health. Whether you’re looking to reduce anxiety, boost focus, or create a more balanced lifestyle, this session will equip you with strategies to strengthen both your mind and body. Perfect for students seeking wellness, self-improvement, and stress relief.

In today's world, information is everywhere—but not all of it is accurate or reliable. This class will help students develop critical thinking skills to evaluate news, social media, and online content with a more discerning eye. Through real-world examples students will learn how to recognize bias, misinformation, and manipulation tactics while strengthening their ability to think independently.

By the end of the session, students will have practical strategies for analyzing sources, questioning narratives, and making informed decisions in an increasingly complex information environment.

Each year, the US Mint produces 10 billion coins. Since 1792, coins have been a cornerstone in our economy, but with the advent of new payment technologies, coins risk becoming remnants of the past. In this class, we will explore the story behind the cents, examine rare coins, and learn about the evolution of United States (and international) coinage throughout the years.

A cool coin souvenir will be provided too!

Who will succeed in rigging the Splash election in their favor? In this class, we will learn about the political practice of gerrymandering -- the slicing and dicing of congressional districts that allows politicians to "rig" elections in their favor and disadvantage their opponents. We will explore a little history, take a look at gerrymandering in practice, and explore ways to stop this legal (but viciously unfair) mechanism harming our Republic. Along the way, every student will put on their politician shoes and practice gerrymandering in a friendly competition.

An introduction* to life-saving techniques, such as CPR and thrusts (formerly called the Heimlich maneuver), as well as ways that we can stay safe in both medical and social situations. Demonstrations of CPR and thrusts using a dummy will be made.

*Please Note: Students will not be officially CPR certified by taking this course. However, information on where to receive official CPR certification will be shared.

Have you ever thought about the stock market, wondered how people retire, or just want to figure out how to use, save, and grow your money efficiently? This course, taught by volunteer instructors from Yale’s Dwight Hall Socially Responsible Investment Fund, will teach students how to responsibly manage their personal finances now and in the future. Topics will include saving, borrowing, and creating an investment portfolio (covering topics such as diversification, index fund investing, and the power of compounding interest). No prior finance-related knowledge is required!

This course will provide an overview of the national Air Traffic Control system as well as the procedures involved for safe and proper navigation and direction of aircraft within the United States.

Learn essential medical skills that could help save someone's mobility in an emergency. In this hands-on course, you'll master the art and science of immobilizing injured arms and legs using both modern medical supplies and improvised materials. You'll discover how to properly support injured joints and bones through techniques like the sling and swathe method, which protects injured shoulders and arms. By understanding the anatomy behind these injuries and practicing real-world stabilization techniques, you'll gain confidence in handling common but serious injuries until professional medical help arrives.
Perfect for students interested in sports medicine, emergency response, or healthcare careers - or anyone who wants to be better prepared to help others in need. No prior medical experience required - just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!

All about menstruation: how it works, the social stigmas attached, and how people experience it differently and what we can do to make having a period better.

How do groundbreaking companies like Tesla, Airbnb, and Spotify go from an idea to a billion-dollar business? How can great businesses make great impact? Welcome to Venture Capital 101, an exciting introduction to the world of startup investing! This course is designed for middle and high school students eager to learn how investors fund the future of innovation. Students will explore:
- How Venture Capital (VC) Works: The VC fund cycle and what investors look for in a startup.
- Tracking Market Trends: How do VCs predict which companies will succeed, when, where, and for how long?
- The Startup Lifecycle: From a founder’s first pitch to term sheets, IPOs and acquisitions.
- Alphabet Soup! B2B, B2C, DTC, SaaS – an introduction to business models.
- Industry Overview: Consumer, software, hardware/deep science, fintech, and more.
- Why Diversity Matters: Diverse investors make better investments, and diverse founders build better businesses.
- Big brands you should follow today and current market trends. Where does artificial intelligence fit into all this?!
- Becoming an Entrepreneur!


Prerequisites
None. An interest in finance, technology, and groundbreaking ideas.

90% of businesses fail, but every successful business is like a superhero that solves problems for people. In this class, we will strategize ways to identify a specific issue, who we could help, and pathways to start, pitch, and grow a successful business endeavor.