LINK Scholars Get an Academic Boost at Summer Learning

Summer is here, and for LINK Scholars, that means Summer Learning is in session! Summer Learning is a six-week academic accelerator for our Scholars to decrease the summer slide. The curriculum is packed with core course competencies for English, math, and science, as well as elective courses and panel sessions for college/career exposure.

“My favorite thing about summer learning has been the academic classes because I really like talking to my teachers and peers.” 

—Imani Johnson, LINK Class of 2023

This year, we’re offering the following elective courses so Scholars can pursue their non-academic interests: Graphic Design, Fashion, Black Journalism, Chicago Black History, Civil Rights and Housing, Music, LINK Podcast, Dance, Black Cinema, Career Exploration, Personal Branding, and Entrepreneurship.

“My favorite part of Summer Learning this year has been seeing and chatting with the friends I met from last year’s Summer Learning. Also, I’m enjoying taking elective classes; I think it was a smart idea.”

—Kamron Beal, LINK Class of 2024

We’ve also hosted two panel sessions so far:

Angelique Gaddy from Hope College provided a virtual tour of Hope’s campus and a panel of current Black students at Hope who shared about their experiences. And since Hope College is a LINK partner school, LINK Scholars receive a special scholarship if they choose to attend Hope! 

A panel of Black attorneys from Chicago visited with Scholars about the field. The panelists were Paul Bateman Sr. of Littler Mendelson, Paul Bateman Jr. of Sidley Austin LLP, and Aerial Henderson and Luke Arrington of the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

We are excited for all that our Scholars get to experience through Summer Learning. It’s a vital piece of academic support that keeps our Scholars moving forward on the path to success. Because of supporters like you, they are getting the academic boost they need to enter the next school year primed and ready for success!