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About Excel:
Sixteen years ago, Putney created the first Excel programs
as a way to
allow
motivated, intellectually curious students to learn for the
sake of learning away from the pressures and limitations of
school. In our Excel programs, students choose two courses
of study that they follow throughout the program. They also
participate in a variety of extra-curricular activities and
fascinating excursions.
Excel programs are informal and
supportive environments, perfect for exploring a new subject
such as International Relations or Photography, or
developing a pre- preexisting interest in Creative Writing
existing or Art History. Student involve involvement is
critical. Active participation and creativity lead to a
summer experience that surpasses students’ highest hopes for
learning, exploration, and adventure.
Seminars: Excel is not
“school.” Our college-style seminars are dynamic and
stimulating, incorporating guest lecturers, field trips,
active discussion, and group projects. Programs at Amherst
College, Oxford/Tuscany, Madrid/Barcelona, Paris/Provence,
and China offer courses that encourage students to explore
and understand their surroundings. Little time is spent in a
traditional classroom - field trips, interviews with locals,
and discussions in parks or cafés are much more effective
and interesting ways to approach course material. Students
have the opportunity to enjoy learning together because it
is something they want to do, not because of the pressures
of grades and credit requirements.
Faculty: Our
distinguished faculty members are selected not only for
their impressive academic credentials, but also because they
are warm, challenging, dynamic, experienced, and caring.
They engage, befriend, and mentor our students. Most faculty
members live in dormitories with students, sharing in their
lives and fully participating in extra-curricular
activities. Living and working side by side with successful
filmmakers, lawyers, artists, writers, and architects helps
students envision their own academic and career paths.
Because informal interactions are a key part of a successful
community, faculty members are always nearby - to take
students to a jazz concert in the Latin Quarter, visit a New
England college campus, play cricket on the quad at Oxford’s
St. Hilda’s, and provide a reliable source of friendship and
support.
Community:
Selected from all over the U.S. and several foreign
countries, Excel students encompass a wide range of
interests and talents, but share a commitment to personal
and intellectual growth. Both staff and students take
responsibility for shaping the unique communities that make
our programs special. Outside of class, faculty and students
work together to organize events that are fun and rewarding
for athletes, artists, musicians, video buffs, dancers, and
frisbee players alike. These events and activities form an
integral part of Excel, promoting adventure, challenge,
self-discovery, and lasting growth.
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