top of page

 

Dear Incoming Ninth Grader:

 

We would first like to say CONGRATULATIONS on your recent match to Bard High School Early College (BHSEC) Queens! On behalf of the BHSEC Queens Admissions team and Bard DNA Family, welcome to Bard! We are excited that you have shown interest in an early college education and in attending BHSEC.  

 

Bard DNA Fellows Program 

 

Attending BHSEC affords all of our students the opportunity to engage in a rigorous academic environment and contribute to a dynamic community. As an incoming ninth-grade student, you have the exciting opportunity to join the Bard Diverse Network of Action (DNA) Fellows Program! The purpose of the Bard DNA Fellows Program is to provide additional academic support, mentorship, professional and leadership development, and a sense of community to BHSEC Queen’s students during their four years here. The Bard DNA Fellows Program aims to support students from historically underrepresented and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds in their academic and social transition to BHSEC Queens. Therefore, due to the limited number of students we can offer this opportunity to, preference will be given to students who identify as being from a group who has been historically underrepresented in higher education. These groups include students who racially identify as African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), American Indian or Alaskan Native; first-generation college-goers; students with disabilities; or students who are eligible for free lunch. 

 

Bard DNA Fellows will receive:

  • Access to leadership and skill-development workshops

  • Access to a Chromebook 

  • Mentoring opportunities

  • Invitations to special field trips and opportunities

 

Bard DNA Fellows are required to: 

  • Attend the 2026 Bard DNA Virtual Summer Program (July 6 - July 24)

  • Attend the monthly Bard DNA Fellows leadership and skill development workshop series, held after school during the school year

 

Summer Program Purpose 
 

The Bard DNA Summer Program was designed to support students from historically underrepresented and/or economically disadvantaged backgrounds in their academic and social transition to BHSEC Queens and into early college life. From day one, this program begins to build a culture of college success and access among all participants.

The summer faculty members immerse students in engaging coursework and connect with them individually to discuss their potential for academic growth and success. The summer peer mentors, who are current BHSEC Queens students, served as a resource and support for incoming DNA Fellow students, helping them prepare for their transition into the BHSEC Queens community.
 

Summer Program Goals

  • Support students’ transition into BHSECQ

  • Build a strong sense of belonging and community

  • Introduce the early college model and academic expectations

  • Strengthen critical thinking and communication skills

  • Promote social responsibility through reflection and action

  • Reduce pre‑high school fears and increase readiness

 

​

bottom of page