Our Curriculum

This year’s AYUSA World Leaders curriculum combines project-based learning and youth engagement with college level AP Environmental Science coursework. Through discussions with local experts, renowned guest speakers, engagement in real world planning projects, and relevant field trips, this course will explore three important topics affecting the environment:

The goal of this course is to prepare students to become leaders in an increasingly inter-connected world where one country’s actions can affect the entire globe.

Guest Speakers Include:

• California State Senator, Loni Hancock, who has demonstrated a long-time commitment to environmental protection throughout her career.Read Bio.
• A keynote from Amy Fraenkel, Regional Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Read Bio.
• Professor Antwi Akom from SpeakOut, a leading expert on the green economy, climate change, and educational equity. Read Bio.
• Jennifer Wolch, Dean of the University of California at Berkeley's Center for Cities and Schools. Read Bio.

Inside the classroom

In the classroom, college professors will guide you through the scientific principles, research and concepts that are needed to identify the environment as a global issue. Our expert professors will also work with you to analyze both natural and human-made environmental problems, and to examine alternative cross-cultural solutions for resolving or preventing them.

Sample Daily Schedule

Outside the classroom

At AYUSA, we believe education happens inside and outside the classroom. Each week, we’ll take field trips to enhance your educational experience, see the San Francisco Bay Area and have some fun!

Here are some possible examples:

• The Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Alcatraz
• San Francisco Bay Model
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Muir Woods
• Mt. Tamalpais
• The Eco House
• Habitat for Humanity
• Farallones Marine Sanctuary
• Lawrence Hall of Science
• California Academy of Science San Francisco
• San Francisco Giants Baseball Game
• The Marin Headlands Institute

Learn more about the campus, culture, and community of AYUSA World Leaders summer high school experience.

Program Dates