Application Process
Is there financial aid available?
We are attempting to identify private and corporate sponsors for qualified students with financial need. None have yet been identified. Therefore, there is currently no financial aid for this program.
How do I contact the program if I have questions during the application process?
It is best to email your questions to summer@tcnj.edu. Please put Bonner Summer Fellows in the subject line.
When is the deadline to apply?
Applications will be accepted until the program is full.
I’m homeschooled; what should I do about recommendations?
We require a recommendation from a non-relative that assesses the student’s academic performance. If the only individuals involved in instruction are relatives, we accept recommendations for work done in a group situation, extra-curricular, or job setting that speak to a sense of effort, responsibility, teamwork, intellectual curiosity, or particular skills.
When will I be notified of the decision?
Decisions are made on a rolling basis. You should receive a decision within a month of the office receiving a completed application. You will be notified if parts of your application are missing.
How old do I have to be to participate in the program?
The Summer Bonner Fellow Program is geared towards advanced high school students (typically rising juniors and seniors). However, exceptional rising sophomores will be considered and are encouraged to apply.
Payment
Do you accept payment plans?
No. Tuition must be paid in full by June 10th. Unfortunately, we cannot allow students to participate in the program if they have an outstanding balance.
Is the cost of food included in tuition?
The cost of the regular meal plan is included in tuition.
Can I receive college credit for the class I take?
Yes, the course is worth four college credits (One TCNJ course unit).
Is there a dress code?
No and Yes. No in the sense that students are not required to wear formal attire or uniforms to attend class. That said, we do expect students to be mindful of their appearance, and to dress appropriately for an academic setting. Similarly, when students are involved in community service, they are expected to dress in a manner that is appropriate to the service venue.
Travel Information
I am flying to the area to attend the program. Do you provide any shuttle service to and from campus?
Arrangements can be made to and from the Philadelphia International Airport for a fee.
Should I bring my own computer?
You may bring your own computer, but it is not required.
May I move into the residence hall early?
No. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate any students in the residence hall before the program begins. Please plan to arrive on the day of your program’s opening.
How do I get to campus from the airport/train station?
Please visit the program details section of the website.
I live far away, can I have things shipped for me to pick up when I arrive?
No. The Program Office does not accept packages on behalf of its students before their arrival.
Residential Life
Is there separation in the residence halls between the male and female students?
Students are typically housed with the different genders on separate halls.
May I be away from the residence hall overnight?
No. Program participants are expected to stay in residence for the whole experience.
Will you provide linens?
We typically do not provide sheets, towels, bedding, and the like for students. However, we can arrange rental of these items for students who are traveling a distance. A list of suggested items to bring will be included with your acceptance materials.
If I enroll as a resident, where will I live?
You will live in one of the residence hall on TCNJ’s campus.
Can I have visitors in my Residence Hall?
Only program participants and staff are allowed access to student halls and rooms. Immediate family members are permitted access to student rooms during move-in and move-out only.
My friend is attending the Program, too! Can we room together?
While we do not guarantee specific roommate requests, our application allows accepted students to request a specific roommate by mutual request.
Is there a curfew?
Yes, there is a strictly enforced curfew. Students must be present and signed in the residence hall by 10:00 PM. There are no curfew extensions except for program-led excursions.
Meal Plan
I’m a very picky eater. What kinds of food options are available?
Dining services provides a wide range of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and kosher options.
Evening and Weekend Activities
What will I be able to do in the evening?
We work very hard to provide a multitude of activities each evening. These include film screenings, discussion groups and field trips. A calendar of events will be made available about a week before the start of each program.
How much spending money should I bring?
All of the basics are covered in the program fee. However, students may wish to purchase sundries from the college store or a keepsake from one of the recreational activities (such as a trip to a local minor league baseball game). The suggested amount of spending money is about $200.
Is there an ATM on campus/what banks are close to campus?
Yes. There is a Wells Fargo ATM located the Brower Student Center.
Campus Facilities
What I have access to the TCNJ Library?
Yes. The library is open during the summer. Research and homework time will be scheduled throughout the program.
Will I have access to a computer?
Yes. Students will have access to computer labs to complete their assignments.
