SUMMER STAFF APPLICATIONS
Our applications are now open for our summer staff. All current BHSECQ students can apply for our paid Media Intern and Peer mentors, and apply to be a volunteer. Click for more information.
Applications due: April 27th, 2026
About Our Program
The Bard DNA Summer Program is a summer enrichment program which DNA fellows are expected to attend the July before their freshman year. During this three-week long program, students will take engaging and fun academic courses, participate in community bonding activities each day and attend Peer Mentor-led advisory sessions. Field trips are also offered to students during this time, some of the past ones including: attending a Broadway play and visiting Bard College!
To apply, you must be an incoming 9th grader.
About our Summer Staff
Our summer staff are students who are hired via application and interview to assist and facilitate the DNA summer program. To be summer staff, you do NOT have to be a certain grade. Summer staff must be able to attend all required trainings and each day of the summer program, be on time, attentive, and engaged in all trainings, summer program classes, and activities. All staff must maintain a professional, mature demeanor at all times, be a positive role model and an example to incoming 9th graders,, and show dedication to your role throughout the summer. After applying, applicants may receive a follow-up email to schedule an interview date. Decisions will be mailed out no later than early June.
PAID POSITIONS
Peer Mentors
Common Mentor traits:
• Communication skills
• Organization
• Flexibility
Media Specialist
Common Intern Traits:
• Creativity
• Collaboration skills
• Organization
Peer mentors are tasked with providing guidance and discuss strategies for becoming a successful BHSEC Queens student. They also assist in the facilitation of academic lessons by working with struggling students by individually helping them complete their tasks. For advisories, mentors must design activities and icebreakers to help build a supportive and cohesive community.
The media specialist is tasked with overseeing the creation and production of all Bard DNA Summer Program-related videos on our social media page. This position is encourages to think creatively about additional ways to engage the program community through media such as photos and video skits.
Additionally, they also take photos and videos of Program faculty, staff, and participants.
MORE POSITIONS
Volunteer
Common Volunteer Traits:
• Communication skills
• Collaboration skills
• Helpful nature
Volunteers will assist faculty in maintaining classroom norms and expectations, work individually with struggling students in class or in the learning commons. They will also provide guidance and discuss strategies for becoming a successful
BHSEC Queens student, similar to a peer mentor