SUMMER 2025 Mathematics Boot Camp at the Timbuktu Academy (SMBC-TA)
The Summer 2025 Mathematics Boot Camp (SMBC-TA) will be held on the campus of Southern University and A&M College, in Baton Rouge (SUBR), June 2-27, 2025, for students entering grades 9th – 12th in the fall of 2025. This 4-week program entails a myriad of enriched activities designed to cultivate participant awareness and understanding of Quantum Mechanics & Computing for real-world applications. Selected students will focus on math and science competencies essential for college matriculation in Quantum Information Sciences & Engineering (QISE) fields. Based on our previous experiences, the six (6) core math and science competencies that will be addressed are (1) algebraic and geometric reasoning, (2) calculus, probability, and statistics, (3) problem-solving and critical thinking, (4) experimental design and data interpretation, (5) scientific communication and technology integration, and (6) interdisciplinary connections. Participants will engage in experiential quantum computing research and attend a lecture series of guest speakers, featuring innovative topics in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and particularly, quantum computing to prepare them for lucrative careers in the STEM workforce.
Selection Criteria:
Entering 9th – 12th grade in Fall 2025
Possess at least a minimum 2.5/4.0 Grade Point Average (GPA)
Acceptable conduct/disciplinary record
Intention to pursue an undergraduate degree in a STEM field, particularly Mathematics and/or Physics
For Consideration, applicants are required to submit the following:
Completed application; contact Dr. Anthony Stewart at anthony.stewart@sus.edu
High school transcript
Conduct/disciplinary record
Resume’ (list school activities in which you have participated, i.e., clubs and organizations, awards, volunteerism, etc.)
Two (2) recommendation forms (completed by a mathematics teacher and an official familiar with your distinct academic potential, personal attributes, etc.)
Personal Statement; (1-page essay describing your interests in science and mathematics, previous science experiences [science fairs/rallies, summer research, summer enrichment, etc.], and career goals)
Photo & Medical Consent Form (signature required by student and parent/guardian)
Program Name: Summer Mathematics Boot Camp at the Timbuktu Academy (SMBC-TA)
Dates/Times: June 2-27, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Student pick-up by 3:30 PM)
Location: Fisher Hall, SUBR campus
Application Deadline: May 2, 2025
Project Director/Coordinator: Dr. Anthony Stewart, IBM-HBCU Quantum Center
Fellow & Associate Professor of Physics, Department of Mathematics and Physics and
Director, the Timbuktu Academy, SUBR, anthony.stewart@sus.edu
Co-Investigator of the Timbuktu Academy: Dr. Diola Bagayoko, Southern University
System (SUS) Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Physics and Director Emeritus of the
Timbuktu Academy, SUBR, bagayoko@aol.com