Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)
BOSS 2018 - Will be held June 17 - June 29, 2018
No application will be considered until all the material is submitted.
BOSS is a two-week program for high school students interested in pursuing a business education in college. It’s an opportunity for these students to take college prep and business fundamentals courses taught by Penn State faculty. Participants will also get a glimpse of what college life is like by living in residence halls during their two-week stay on Penn State’s University Park campus.
"I participated in BOSS in 2014, the summer after my junior year of high school. I had no idea what I wanted to major in upon graduation 
or where I wanted to attend college. BOSS exposed me to so many majors, career paths, professional and transferrable skills; this eye-opening experience was one that would not have been attainable elsewhere. BOSS not only informs prospective students of academic opportunities, but builds skills such as confidence, networking, and business literacy. Without BOSS I without a doubt would not be at Penn State today, I would not be an intern with the company I am today, and I would not be the Business student that I am today. I will forever be grateful for the Smeal Diversity Enhancement Programs, and for my time at BOSS."
- Brittany D., 2014 BOSS Participant
Sample Schedule
To Apply
Complete the online application form and submit (VIA MAIL) the supporting materials listed below:
- Your Personal Statement/Information
Write a one or two-page essay that answers the following questions:- Why do you want to attend BOSS and what do you hope to gain from the experience?
- Discuss other academic or educational programs in which you have participated.
- Discuss your academic awards or honors and what courses you will take as a senior.
- Scholarship statement of financial need by guardian (if applicable)
Some scholarships are available for students with financial need. To be considered for a scholarship to attend the BOSS program, enclose a statement written by your parent/guardian explaining your family's financial situation. - High school transcript and school profile
Ask your school counseling office to send your high school transcripts from grade nine through the most recent marking period, as well as a school profile, if available, explaining the grading system. - Recent standardized achievement test scores
Ask your school counseling office to send your most recent standardized achievement test scores (SAT, PSAT, NEDT, if taken; otherwise, another achievement test administered by your school).
If you have not taken a standardized test and your school does not administer another standardized test, please have your school guidance counselor contact our office. - Letter of Recommendation
You need to obtain one letter of recommendation from a high school teacher. The teacher should comment on your academic achievements, potential, and ability to contribute to and benefit from BOSS. The letter may be included in application, if envelope is sealed and signed across seal.
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 at campus 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. Only if you are accepted will you have to pay the registration fee, which is non-refundable. There are no other fees associated with this program.
Acceptance Letter
An acceptance letter will be emailed and mailed to your address once a decision has been made.
Mail Application Material to:
Diversity Enhancement Programs
Smeal College of Business
The Pennsylvania State University
Attention: Pauline McCarl
203U Business Building
University Park, PA 16802
Contact Information
Phone: 814-865-0938
Email: boss@smeal.psu.edu