BEAM - Bridging Education in Optics and Applied STEM

Are you interested in the study of light and lasers?

This program has been cancelled for 2025. Please check back next year. We apologize for any inconvenience.

The BEAM summer school is an active, hands-on school designed to ignite passion and curiosity in STEM fields, with a particular focus on optical sciences and their applications and career paths. 

As a summer school participant you will fully immerse yourself in the world of optics with the support from experts in the field of quantum-optics-based technology. Through hands-on experiences, interactive workshops, and mentorship, you will gain foundational knowledge and practical skills, empowering you to pursue careers in cutting-edge fields. You will participate in tutorials, seminars, experiments, career development sessions, and laboratory tours. You will learn to network with peers and technical staff, and create a capstone project. 

The BEAM summer school is funded through the US Department of Energy Office of Science’s WDTS Pathway Programs. 

Additional information:

• Dates: four weeks total, Monday, June 30th - Friday, July 25th, 2025, 8:30am-4:30pm
• Camp location: McCurdy Charter School; 515 C Camino Arbolera, Espanola, NM 87532
• Stipend Information: Each student will receive $500 per week, paid upon completion of the entire school
  
  

How to apply:

• Must upload transcripts to application form
• Be prepared to describe interest in program, relevant experiences, and how participating in this program will help you with your academic, personal, and/or professional goals

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be at least 16 years of age
• Good academic standing
• Completed Algebra 1 and Geometry
• High school or college students 
• US citizenship required