Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)

Information about the Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS).

2026 BOSS will be held June 14-26, 2026 

The 2026 BOSS application will open on October 20, 2025, and close on March 20, 2026.

I had the privilege to BOSS 2025. Throughout the two weeks on campus, BOSS gave our group rare access to top Penn State professors, industry experts, and various business operations. It took us beyond the classroom, allowing us to see EY’s corporate environment and how places like DelGrosso's amusement park or a baseball stadium operate. I enjoyed our hands-on learning components from the business pitch group presentation to learning to tie a tie with Dr. Campbell. The program opened doors, clarified my path, and connected me with people who both challenged and inspired me. I’m especially thankful for the friendships I formed and the team that made everything possible. They created an environment I would return to in a heartbeat. I highly recommend it to any student who is serious about finding their place in a business career. ~Alexia Purkanto, BOSS Participant 2025, York, PA

BOSS (Business Opportunities Summer Session) is a two-week, residential summer program held at Penn State’s University Park campus, only for high school juniors from the U.S. and Puerto Rico and interested in pursuing a business education in college.

The program offers:

  • College preparation and business fundamentals courses taught by Penn State faculty

  • A real college living experience, including:

    • Staying in residence halls

    • Eating in the campus dining commons

    • Interacting with a diverse group of academically driven peers

BOSS is designed to give students a firsthand look at college academics and life, especially within a business-focused setting.

This is a sample schedule of what the two weeks would entail.

To Apply

There is a new application process, and all this information below except your recommendation letter must be uploaded in your application before you are able to submit your application.  We will only see completed applications.  

Complete the online application. 

  1. Complete Online Application Form
    Submit the full application online. You will not be able to submit it until all required documents are uploaded (except the letter of recommendation, which is submitted separately).
  2. Personal Statement/Information (PDF, 1–2 pages)
    Answer the following questions:
    • Why do you want to attend BOSS and what do you hope to gain?
    • What other academic or educational programs have you participated in?
    • What academic awards or honors have you received?
    • What courses will you take as a senior?
  3. High School Transcript
    Upload transcripts from:
    • Grade 9 through your most recent marking period.
  4. Standardized Achievement Test Scores
    Report your most recent scores (SAT, PSAT, NEDT, etc.). If you haven't taken any and your school doesn't administer one, your guidance counselor must email Pauline Hough
  5. Letter of Recommendation
    Required for your application to be accepted 
    • One letter from a teacher or guidance counselor
    • Must be submitted directly by the recommender
    • Letter should speak to:
      • Your academic achievements
      • Your potential
      • Your ability to contribute to and benefit from BOSS
    Tip: Request this early to give your recommender enough time.
  6. Program Fee ($350)
    Only required after acceptance into the program.

Acceptance Letter

An acceptance letter will be emailed to you at the email you use in your application once decision has been made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information for Parents

Contact Information

Phone: 814-865-0938
Email: diversity@smeal.psu.edu

http://www.facebook.com/smealboss