Moving from a CTY young students’ program to one for older students is an exciting next step—and like any transition, it may come with a few new things to get used to. This guide offers tips to help your family feel confident and prepared as your child takes this next step in their CTY journey.


What’s familiar, and what’s new?


While the core of the CTY experience remains the same—engaging academics, connections with peers, and supportive staff—there are a few changes students may notice:

  • More time in the classroom: At older student sites, students focus on one subject for seven hours a day, including an evening session after dinner. This is more classroom time than the YS program and can take some adjustment, but many students enjoy the deep dive into a topic they love.
  • A bit more independence: Now take on a bit more responsibility. For example, they may make their own food selections and decide who they’d like to sit with. Staff are always nearby to help, but students are encouraged to ask for what they need and practice being more independent.
  • A wider age range among students: Students at older students’ sites typically range from age 12-16. While classes or housing groups are carefully considered to make everyone feel comfortable, students will encounter peers with different levels of experience and maturity. Staff are trained to ensure all students are safe and supported, and the overall environment is designed with younger students in mind.


Before the program:

Questions about your child’s class or housing? If you’re curious about your child’s class or residential experience—especially how the age range might play out—feel free to contact the site’s program manager or assistant program manager. Their contact details are in MyCTY with the registration information for the summer. They’re happy to talk through any questions and help you feel at ease.


Housing assignments aren’t finalized until shortly before the session begins, so the program manager/assistant program manager will not be able to tell you the age makeup of the hall on which your child will be living. The dean of residential life can take concerns into account. We can’t promise specific arrangements, but the more we know, the better we can support your child.


During the program:

Opening day: When you arrive onsite, administrative staff will be available to greet you, answer any questions, and help you feel confident about the experience ahead.


Stay connected, but let them settle in: It’s a good idea to set up a communication plan with your child before the session starts. Knowing when to expect a call or message can ease homesickness and help your child stay focused on making the most of their time. If you're having trouble reaching them or just want to check in, call the site office—staff are always happy to help.


Give them time to adjust: Even though your child may feel like a “CTY pro,” this new environment may still feel unfamiliar at first. It’s totally normal to feel both confident and a little unsure at the same time. Reassure your child that, just like before, they’ll get the hang of it and find their place in the community.


Reach out if you need to: If your child mentions anything you find worrisome, don’t hesitate to call the site office. Our staff would rather help early than try to fix a problem after it’s grown. You know your child best, and your insights are incredibly helpful.


Closing day: You’ll have a chance to meet with your child’s instructor to hear about their academic progress and celebrate all they’ve accomplished. Whether it was mastering a new subject, making new friends, or simply stretching outside their comfort zone, every step is worth celebrating. If challenges came up along the way, they’re part of the learning process, too. We hope your child leaves proud of what they’ve done.