About

The Carleton Liberal Arts Experience (CLAE) is a week-long all-expenses paid summer program for high school juniors. The program is intended for students who want to explore the liberal arts on a residential campus and are interested in African American history and culture. The free program provides exposure to highly rigorous, college-level coursework across a range of disciplines within the unique style of education found only at liberal arts colleges like Carleton. CLAE is a free program made possible by generous Carleton alumni who are dedicated to advancing liberal arts education. CLAE is interdisciplinary, featuring courses in the humanities, arts, and STEM, where students find unexpected connections between classes and across disciplines. The program also prepares students for the college search, application process, and thriving at elite colleges. Each CLAE cohort is comprised of 52 scholars from all across the U.S. Admission to the program is highly selective. Scholars experience life at Carleton including living in the dorms and eating in the dining halls. Mentorship is a highlight of the program. Current Carleton students provide guidance and leadership to CLAE Scholars throughout the week. The schedule includes a survey of four distinct courses taught by leading professors, college prep workshops led by professional Carleton staff members, and community building activities. All costs related to housing, food, and transportation are covered by Carleton. Students who are exploring a liberal arts education and are interested in African American history and culture, are encouraged to apply. We’re looking for academic excellence, investment beyond the classroom in activities, talent, or work, and a desire to engage with values of diversity and inclusion. At Carleton, students love to learn and enjoy challenging their intellectual capacity. It’s fueled by deep curiosity and desire to make an impact. Applicants should embody these characteristics.