The Belin-Blank Center facilitates two university-based programs for college students – the Bucksbaum Early Entrance Academy and the Academy for Twice-Exceptionality.
The Bucksbaum Early Entrance Academy provides an opportunity for high school students who are ready to enter college early. Program participants are full-time University of Iowa students who take classes, use libraries and laboratories, live in a residence hall, and are involved in campus life. Students experience an enriched academic and social community through the Bucksbaum Academy as they transition to university life together. The students receive a comprehensive support structure from the Center that includes a program-specific resident advisor, a weekly seminar for the first two years, weekly individual meetings, and planned social events.
If you know someone who might be ready to begin college early, we are hosting two online Information Sessions (September 7 and September 21) as well as two on-campus Visit Days (October 16 and November 6). You can read more about the Bucksbaum Academy and register for these events at belinblank.org/academy.
The Academy for Twice-Exceptionality provides a structure of support for neurodivergent University of Iowa students beginning college at a typical age. The academy provides supports for academic skills, practical skills (executive functioning and independent living), and social/emotional skills. Supports include a program-specific resident advisor, a seminar experience each year, weekly individual meetings, access to a licensed therapist, goal setting, and planned social events. Additional supports are available through the University’s Student Disability Services. Like the Bucksbaum Academy students, they are full-time students who participate in university classes and campus activities.
If you know someone who is neurodivergent and would be successful in college with additional supports, we are hosting two online Information Sessions (September 6 and September 20) as well as two on-campus Visit Days (September 25 and October 23). You can read more about the Academy for Twice-Exceptionality and register for these events at belinblank.org/2eacademy.
Both of our academies are rooted in a cohort model with support from admission through graduation and are committed to fostering a sense of community. We aim for all the students to feel like the Belin-Blank Center is a home on campus. Join us at an upcoming event to see if an academy is the right fit for you!
Belin-Blank Center 