The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) : A Prestigious Humanities Program for High School Students
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is one of the most prestigious and intellectually stimulating summer programs for high school students passionate about the Humanities and Social Sciences. Designed to foster critical thinking, leadership, and community engagement, TASS provides a unique six-week residential experience where students delve into thought-provoking topics, build meaningful relationships, and explore academic life at a college level.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the Telluride Summer Program, including its offerings, costs, application process, and what makes it a transformative experience for students.
What Is the Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)?
TASS, originally known as the Telluride Association Summer Program (TASP), was founded in 1945 and later restructured in 2021 to focus on more specific themes in humanities and social justice. Unlike many summer programs, TASS prioritizes intellectual curiosity over grades and standardized test scores, making it a truly inclusive and merit-based experience.
Each summer, selected students participate in rigorous seminar-style courses at leading universities such as Cornell University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Maryland. These courses emphasize discussion, analysis, and collaboration rather than traditional lectures and exams.
What Programs Does TASS Offer?
TASS offers two specialized tracks for students who are eager to engage with critical topics in the Humanities:
TASS-CBS (Critical Black Studies): This seminar explores the intellectual and cultural contributions of people of African descent while examining historical and contemporary issues affecting Black communities.
TASS-AOS (Anti-Oppressive Studies): This seminar focuses on systems of power and oppression, challenging students to analyze structures of inequality and consider strategies for social change.
Both tracks encourage students to engage deeply with texts, films, and other media while participating in lively discussions that refine their analytical and communication skills.
What Do Students Do at TASS?
TASS is more than just an academic program—it is an immersive community experience. Here is what participants can expect:
1. Seminar Classes
Each day, students engage in three-hour, college-level discussions with faculty and peers. The focus is on deep reading, critical thinking, and articulating complex ideas. Unlike traditional high school settings, there are no grades—students are encouraged to learn for the sake of learning.
2. Community Engagement
TASS places a strong emphasis on community building. Students participate in collaborative decision-making, extracurricular activities, and service projects. The program also incorporates Transformative Justice practices to help students navigate conflicts and build meaningful relationships.
3. Faculty and Mentorship
Each seminar is led by two accomplished faculty members, along with two resident teaching assistants known as "factotums." These mentors support students academically and socially, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment.
How Much Does TASS Cost?
One of the most incredible aspects of TASS is that it is completely free. The program covers:
Tuition
Books and materials
Room and board
Field trips
Travel assistance (if needed)
Additionally, financial aid is available for students who would normally need to work during the summer, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to participation.
Who Is Eligible for TASS?
TASS is open to high school sophomores and juniors (ages 15-18) from diverse backgrounds. The program strongly encourages applications from students of color, first-generation college-bound students, and those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
There are no GPA or standardized test requirements—TASS values intellectual curiosity and a passion for social change over traditional academic measures.
How to Apply for TASS
Applying to TASS is a multi-step process that requires dedication and thoughtfulness. Here is a timeline to keep in mind:
Mid-October: Teachers and counselors can nominate students, but self-nominations are also welcome.
November 15: Applications officially open.
December 1: Teacher/counselor nominations are due.
First week of January: Final application deadline.
Mid-March: Interview invitations are sent.
March-April: Interviews take place.
Early May: Admission decisions are released.
Late June to early August: The program begins!
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar
What Does the Application Include?
The TASS application requires:
An online application form
High school transcript
One letter of recommendation
A writing sample from a previous class
Several essays that showcase critical thinking, passion for the Humanities, and a commitment to community engagement
Because TASS does not consider grades or test scores, the essays and interview process are crucial for demonstrating your fit for the program.
How Competitive Is TASS?
TASS is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of around 3-5%. This means that thousands of students apply each year, but only a small percentage are accepted.
To improve your chances, focus on writing compelling, introspective essays that demonstrate your curiosity and willingness to engage deeply with challenging topics. Since there are no grades involved, the admissions committee wants to see how you think, not just what you know.
Is TASS Right for You?
TASS is an academically rigorous and socially engaging program designed for students who are passionate about the Humanities and eager to develop their leadership skills. If you love reading, discussing big ideas, and working collaboratively to create meaningful change, TASS could be an ideal fit.
However, if you are simply looking for a program to boost your college applications without a genuine interest in the subject matter, TASS may not be the right choice. The program requires full commitment and active participation.
Final Thoughts
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar is one of the most rewarding opportunities for high school students who are serious about Humanities and Social Sciences. With its free tuition, world-class faculty, and intellectually enriching curriculum, TASS provides an unparalleled summer experience that prepares students for both college and lifelong learning.
If this program excites you, start preparing your application today—your summer at TASS could be the start of an incredible academic and personal journey!
For more information, visit the Telluride Association website and explore the application requirements in detail. Good luck!
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