Through hands-on experience, students gain laboratory and research knowledge. They may also choose to enter an apprenticeship with a professional or mentor. In addition to regular classes, the Academy features May Term, a two-week session in which students take an intensive course or workshop in a unique academic area. The extended curriculum is based on the belief that gifted students have unlimited potential for leadership. In turn, they have a responsibility to the community.
All students complete community service work during the two-year residency.
For example, students may volunteer in hospitals, nursing homes, United Way agencies, senior citizen centers, Special Olympics and libraries. The Academy allows students to attend a school similar to a residential college. All Academy students live in Wagoner Complex, a residence hall on Ball State s campus reserved for academy students only. Sixteen to 20 students live in each wing, with two students sharing a dorm room. Rooms are furnished and have telephone access.