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Lincoln Scholars, Political Theory Institute, and US Department of Education logos

Summer Civics Institute on American Principles and Debates An Introduction to the College Experience

June 21-28, 2026
In Person, On Campus
Washington, DC

The Lincoln Scholars Program and Political Theory Institute are hosting a FREE week-long college experience seminar for high school students at American University. Students in this seminar will explore major debates and texts in the American political tradition and gain experience in what college work is like. Over seven days, students will meet in small conversation-based seminars with American University faculty and practice skills that are invaluable to a college career, such as:

  • Serious discussion and debate with peers with different perspectives
  • Knowledge of foundational texts for liberal democracy and the American political tradition
  • Close reading and analysis of morally complicated texts
  • Ability to articulate your opinions in writing and in speech
  • Understanding of how college works and expectations for college-level work

The program will include seminars each morning with American University faculty and dedicated study time each afternoon, as well as field trips and guest lectures related to Washington, D.C. and American History. Topics of the seminars will include the rights and responsibilities around free expression; the rule of law vs. civil disobedience; wrestling with the Declaration of Independence; intellectual roots of conservatism and progressivism; and American history as a struggle for freedom.

Selected Course Readings

  • The Declaration of Independence
  • Abraham Lincoln, On the Perpetuation of Our Political Institutions
  • Henry David Thoreau, Civil Disobedience
  • Frederick Douglass, The Meaning of July 4th for the Slave
  • Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Declaration of Sentiments
  • Jane Addams, The Subjective Necessity for Social Settlements
  • William F. Buckley, God and Man at Yale (selections)
  • John Stuart Mill, On Liberty

Benefits

  • An introduction to the college experience
  • A bound volume of primary source documents, sent in advance of the seminar
  • Seven-nights residence on AU campus in a private room with a private bath (nights of 6/21-6/27) with live-in resident assistant 
  • Seven breakfasts, six lunches, six dinners
  • Access to AU facilities, such as the library and fitness center
  • Field trips to Capital Hill and Mt. Vernon
  • Travel Reimbursement of up to $500

Applications

Current high school students are eligible to apply. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis. The application is now open. The final application deadline is April 15, 2026. Past offerings of this seminar have been completely full, so apply early to maximize your chances of acceptance.
Apply Now