The Emory Pre-College Program, an academic program for high school students, is now accepting applications. 2011 marks it's third year—and it’s a program that has become a popular place for children of alumni.

Last year, 28 children of alumni attended the program, which is more than 20 percent of program participants. One of those students was Melanie Rieder of Short Hills, NJ, daughter of Rick Rieder 85C, a member of the Board of Trustees, and Debbie Rieder 83C.

Melanie (first row, second from left, above) grew up with Emory as a household word—not only are her parents alumni, two uncles (Michael Lieb 83C, Jeffery Rieder 87C) and an aunt (Susan Rieder 87C) are Emory alumni as well. Though she visited the University many times as a child, her parents felt it was important for her to experience Emory on her own before making a decision to attend.

“We wanted Melanie to see Emory from her own perspective,” Debbie Rieder said. “The Pre-College Program gave her the perfect opportunity to do so. It was important to Rick and to me that Melanie make her own independent decision about whether or not Emory was a good match for her. We wanted her to want it.”

Melanie spent two weeks at Emory last summer, drawn not only by her family’s affinity to the University but to the course description for Nancy Marshall’s class, The Magic of Photography. She spent two weeks living on campus, enjoying the many extra- and co-curricular activities and local trips offered by the program.

“She loved it,” Debbie said. “And the rest is history. She applied early decision, and will be attending Emory next fall.” And that makes her an Emory Legacy.

See a video about the Emory Pre-College experience here.

The Emory Pre-College Program offers six-week credit courses in disciplines including biology, economics, mathematics, film studies, languages, sociology and psychology. Students may also enroll in two-week non-credit courses, which include classes such as The Neuroscience of Technology, The Science and Policy of Disease, Writing the Personal Essay, and Law and Litigation. Courses run from May 16 to August 5.

For full course listings, admission requirements and an online application visit Pre-College Program's website. To request a brochure, email the Pre-College Program at summerprograms@emory.edu or call 404.727.0671. The preferred application deadline is May 1. The courtesy scholarship is available for six-week credit courses.

--Elizabeth Elkins 95C, senior program associate, summer school and pre-college programs