Through access and opportunity, ASU continues 'Changing Futures'

Arizona State University will continue to change futures through the summer as aspiring scholars live the bold vision by unlocking opportunity through immersive programs like Barrett Summer Scholars, The Leadership Institute, RISE Leadership Institute and INSPIRE.

With Access ASU, high school students can engage in college-level discussions, explore real-world career pathways and develop leadership skills grounded in identity and purpose. These are all essential building blocks of the Changing Futures vision that is an effort to reshape education to be accessible and relevant across all stages of life. The initiative focuses on empowering learners through new models of education that meet real-world needs and preparing them to thrive.

Rooted in culture and community, INSPIRE goes beyond traditional college-readiness models by weaving culturally grounded experiences into every aspect of learning. Students engage with ideas and future pathways while their identities and histories are reflected and valued.

“A lot of Native American kids grow up in very rural areas, and we don’t have that many resources or information. When students like us get to come here and see how it is, it makes us want to be here,” said Kira Thomas, a past INSPIRE participant.

INSPIRE is completely free, including housing, meals and activities, ensuring cost is never a barrier to participation. Throughout the program, students build meaningful connections with ASU students, faculty and staff in small, supportive settings. These relationships often become one of the most impactful parts of the experience.

Maddie Billy, an ASU student ambassador majoring in clinical exercise science, was a participant in high school. She shared how the experience allowed her to see herself as a student at ASU while learning about their resources.

“As an ambassador, it gave me the opportunity to share what I’ve learned with students and support them in their college-search journey. INSPIRE has allowed me to grow personally and academically, along with all the connections I’ve made along the way, and returning as an ambassador has truly been a full circle moment,” Billy said.

One of Access ASU’s longest-standing summer camps is The Leadership Institute summer program. This is a dynamic, residential experience designed for rising high school juniors and seniors eager to explore higher education.

The Leadership Institute centers around empowering students to grow as scholars and leaders rooted in civic engagement and community advocacy.

“This is actually my second summer ... I loved it so much last year that I instantly wanted to come back. I love meeting all the new people and meeting all the camp ambassadors. It’s such a heartwarming experience to be part of such a big legacy,” Silvana Bojorquez said.

Since 1995, more than 1,300 students have participated, making it one of Arizona’s longest-running leadership-focused pre-college summer programs. Taking place at ASU’s Tempe campus, The Leadership Institute allows students to participate in interactive workshops and leadership activities that focus on developing a student’s confidence as they progress through their educational and career journey.

The curriculum is structured around three core pillars: career and college preparation, leadership development and civic engagement. Students receive guidance on college applications, university costs of attendance and scholarship opportunities while also building skills in public speaking, teamwork and critical thinking.

Past participants completed a community project, partnering with Feed My Starving Children. This project helped to deepen their understanding of service, reinforcing the importance of giving back and leading with purpose.

The RISE Summer Leadership Institute prepares high school students entering their junior or senior year with college and career success through a hands-on learning experience.

Similar in structure to The Leadership Institute summer program, RISE includes intentional career-connected learning tied to real issues affecting communities.

Throughout the residential experience at ASU, students participate in interactive workshops led by educators and professionals from a range of disciplines. Students are encouraged to think critically about their academic interests and long-term goals in these sessions.

“You make so many friends; I came in knowing no one, and now I feel like I have an extra family of people — and you’ll learn a lot about yourself, so I definitely recommend high schoolers looking into college to come to RISE, because it’s awesome,” RISE participant Chloe Thomas said.

In addition to career exploration, RISE students participate in sessions focused on entrepreneurship and the value of education. The program also emphasizes that leadership involves creativity and solution-oriented thinking, closely connected to educational pathways and accountability to community needs.

Barrett Summer Scholars offers students an immersive academic experience designed to introduce pre-college students to the rigor and engagement of first-year honors courses.

Participants take seminar-style classes that feature small-group discussions and coursework that challenges them to develop their academic voice. Through faculty-led courses, students explore their interests in depth while gaining exposure to new subjects and ideas. This year’s offerings include courses in architecture, engineering, health and biomedical sciences, molecular sciences, business and entrepreneurship, and English and the humanities.

“The goal of Barrett Summer Scholars is to help students explore the connections between their interests, potential careers and the college pathways that lead there,” said Amy Ball, director of outreach experiences at Access ASU. “Through the program, students learn directly from ASU instructors and professionals in the field, gaining hands-on experiences that help them better understand their options and imagine themselves pursuing those paths.”

Each summer provides a unique experience, and eligible students may reapply to participate across multiple years and grade levels, allowing for continued growth and exploration.

This integration of academic rigor and career discovery helps students connect their strengths and aspirations while empowering them to envision futures where they can thrive and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

Through social activities and team-based experiences, students foster confidence, friendships and a strong sense of belonging as they prepare for higher education.

Barrett Summer Scholars has an $800 program fee. The program provides students with a residential academic experience that includes coursework, mentorship and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Limited need-based scholarships are available.

Step into your leadership journey this summer. Explore Access ASU’s immersive programs and apply to start shaping the future you envision.