Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth

Welcome to CTY!

Attending a CTY residential program is an exciting opportunity—students dive into fascinating subjects, make new friends, and grow in independence. While the experience can feel different from a typical school or home setting, a little preparation can go a long way in helping your child feel confident and ready for the adventure ahead. Here are some tips for preparing for their CTY experience:

• Deep focus on one subject: Students spend about seven hours a day exploring one subject in depth. They'll be with the same teacher and classmates throughout the course, which builds a strong classroom community. The academic pace is fast and fun. The range of ages and backgrounds of the students can be wider than your child is accustomed to. Classes can range from grades 7-10 and ages 12-16. Adjusting to the community and schedule can take some time.
• Increased independence: CTY is designed to help students learn to take more personal responsibility. Staff are always nearby to help, but students will need to speak up when they have questions or need support. This independence builds confidence and life skills they will take with them long after summer ends. Bonus: they might even come home knowing how to do their own laundry!
• A busy and balanced schedule: Students at CTY have a full schedule of academics and activities each day as well as a little unstructured time with friends. They’ll get to know different areas of campus and participate in fun traditions. Transitions at CTY might involve 5-10 minute walks across campus, changing groups for activities, or waiting for events to start. The schedule can require significant focus and energy. The schedule may feel different from home, including set mealtimes and lights-out routines, but students quickly find their rhythm. 

Before the program: 

Your support makes a big difference! Talk positively about the experience to help your child feel capable and excited. If your child is feeling unsure, remind them that nerves are normal and that trying new things often leads to growth.

Let your child know it’s ok to miss home sometimes. Many students do at first. Together, come up with ways to handle those feelings, like focusing on fun activities, thinking of encouraging words from family, or looking forward to mail. You can also agree on a schedule for checking in, which helps provide reassurance while encouraging independence.

Read the materials with your child so you know what to expect. The site information packet is especially helpful in providing relevant details about your child’s site, including what to bring and what to leave at home. Knowledge of CTY’s residential policies and procedures ahead of time minimizes the risk of surprises or unrealistic expectations.

It’s also helpful to review basics like how to do laundry, make healthy food choices, keep possessions clean and organized, and share personal space with a roommate. Your child’s resident assistant will also be on hand to provide guidance and supervision in these areas.

A handful of students decide, with their families, to commute to and from the site every day after evening classes have ended. We encourage parents/guardians and students to discuss this decision together and to keep communication open surrounding the issue. Students who previously thought they wanted to live at home sometimes change their minds once they begin to make friends and experience the residential program in action. Some commuter students might also miss out on portions of the activities program. It is not always possible to switch from being a commuter to being a residential student. Switching from residential to commuter is always possible. If a student is on the fence, discuss with them the possibility of starting off living on campus.

During the program: 

Opening day: You’ll meet your child’s RA, instructor, and teaching assistant. These are the adults your child will interact with most. RAs especially help create a friendly, safe environment and guide students through daily routines and social life.

You may also want to say hello to the site’s academic counselor, who will likely be near the medical check-in area. They’re there to support students’ emotional, academic, and physical wellbeing. If you have any information that might help them support your child, feel free to share—it’s always appreciated.

It’s normal to want to check in, but try to give your child space to adjust in those first few days. Keeping calls or messages short and upbeat can help them focus on making connections and getting comfortable. Many students enjoy writing letters or receiving mail—it’s a great way to stay connected without disrupting the experience.

If something seems especially challenging or concerning, call the site office.

Closing day: You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your child’s academic progress in a conference with their instructor. Take time to celebrate all that your child has accomplished, whether it’s mastering a tough topic, trying something new, or simply growing more confident away from home.