Extracurricular Activities
Explore Extracurriculars at Franklin Academy
At Franklin Academy, we believe the most profound education often happens outside the traditional classroom. We provide students with elite, immersive extracurricular and academic experiences—from exploring cutting-edge technology in university-level engineering labs to engaging in global philanthropy across borders, and cultivating artistic expression in our school choir. These carefully designed programs empower students to discover their passions, accumulate high-quality academic and service experiences, and build highly competitive portfolios for top-tier university admissions.
The High School Advantage
Global Philanthropy Leadership (GPL)
True leadership is forged in the face of real-world challenges. Students break geographic boundaries to travel across the globe and domestically, directly engaging in solutions for climate, ecological, and economic challenges.
Who It’s For:
High school students looking to broaden their global perspective and develop pragmatic problem-solving skills.
When It Happens:
Summer / Winter
What You Will Do:
Conduct field research and execute philanthropic initiatives under expert guidance. Project destinations include: China (Microfinance & Poverty Alleviation), Nepal (Sustainable Development), Costa Rica (Biodiversity Conservation), and Arizona (Biodiversity Conservation).
STEM & Engineering Programs
For students determined to push the boundaries of technology, our advanced STEM programs bridge the gap between high school science and collegiate-level innovation.
UCI Autonomous Driving
Who It’s For:
High school students passionate about computer science, artificial intelligence, and engineering.
When It Happens:
Summer (2-week university-level immersive program).
What You Will Do:
Hosted in collaboration with the UC Irvine School of Engineering. Students learn Python/C++, assemble scale-model autonomous cars, and write machine vision and obstacle avoidance algorithms for physical track testing.
Lab on a Chip Summer School
Who It’s For:
Students in Grades 9-11 (Basic Algebra required; no prior engineering experience necessary).
When It Happens:
Summer (UCI residential dorm option or commuter option available).
What You Will Do:
An interdisciplinary program combining biomedical engineering and microfluidics. Students learn SolidWorks 3D modeling and Arduino programming to design, fabricate, and test functional miniature diagnostic devices.
Arts & Teamwork
A truly well-rounded, elite student requires not only academic rigor but also artistic creativity and collaborative spirit.
Franklin Choir
Who It’s For:
Students across various grade levels with an interest in music, vocal training, and stage performance.
When It Happens:
Year-round during the regular academic year.
What You Will Do:
Students with a passion for music has the opportunity to participate, develop their vocal technique, and experience the thrill of live performance.
Take the Next Steps
Whether you want to develop the next generation of smart hardware in a university lab or rescue endangered species in a tropical rainforest, Franklin Academy has a stage for you. Fill out the brief form below, and our admissions team will reach out to help you map out the perfect extracurricular roadmap.