BOSS Frequently Asked Questions

This sections is dedicated to answering frequently asked questions about the business opportunity summer session (BOSS).

Who is eligible?

The BOSS Program is for students who are entering 12th grade and have a strong interest in pursuing a business education at the college level.

What are the program fees?

Program attendees are required to provide their own transportation to and from the University Park campus. While personal vehicles are not permitted (i.e. attendees cannot drive themselves and park their cars on campus), attendees can be dropped off by a parent/guardian, take public transportation, taxi, private bus, or airplane to State College. A $50.00 registration fee is required only if you are accepted.  Please do NOT send the $50.00 registration fee along with your application. All other program expenses (food, lodging, and BOSS events) are covered.

What if I can’t afford the program?

Some scholarships may be available to cover the registration fee.

Where does the program take place?

BOSS takes place at Penn State’s University Park campus in State College, Pennsylvania. The campus can be reached by car, bus, or plane. The participant's parent(s) or guardian(s) are responsible for their transportation to and from University Park campus.

Where will summer participants stay?

Students will be housed in a campus residence hall with other program participants. The housing assignments will be made for the participants prior to their arrival.

What should students bring with them to stay in the dorms?

Clothing:

  • Appropriate clothing for daily class. Dress for daily activities is informal clothing similar to what you would wear to school. Shorts are permitted as long as they are of appropriate length.  No crop tops or strapless shirts
  • Casual clothing for down time or outdoor activities
  • Business casual outfit (khaki pants/skirt, polo/button up shirt, etc.)
  • Professional outfit for final presentations
  • Appropriate shoes for walking around campus

 IMPORTANT: On the day of your presentation and for our visit to the EY office, your dress will be:

  • Gentlemen:  suit or dress pants/khakis, dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes.
  • Ladies: dresses or skirts (below the knee or longer); or dress pants/khakis, blouse, dress shoes.

Other items:

  • Students should bring pillows, sheets for extra long twin bed, blankets, sleeping bag or any other bedding supplies they wish to have.
  • Toiletries (including hand soap, wash cloths, towels)
  • Swim suit and towel for visit to the amusement park
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Rain gear/umbrella
  • Laundry detergent
  • Pens, pencils, blank notebooks
  • Any medications needed, including over-the-counter medications

 Optional:

  • Clothes hangers
  • Snacks

 Please label all personal belongings!

Will participants have access to a refrigerator or microwave while in the dorms?

Yes, there is a refrigerator and microwave in the common areas of the residence halls. Depending on housing, students may have a mini-fridge and microwave in the room.