Benjamin Franklin Experience

We help teens with grit realize their full potential.

What, in conjunction with high school, is necessary to increase the chances that teens with grit graduate with the skills they need for 21st century success? 

AidJoy's team of experts—youth psychologists, award-winning educators, sociologists, and social entrepreneurs—got together to answer that question. The solution, Benjamin Franklin Experience (BFE). Our experiential learning program provides highly-motivated teens:

• the opportunity to explore many careers—to have a bigger view of the world and what is possible;
  
  
• career guidance and direction from high-performing adults who have attained their own dreams—mentors who understand their drive and ambition; and
  
  
• instruction and practice in the social behaviors and life skills that colleges and employers are seeking—and an understanding of why these soft skills matter.

Why focus on
highly-motivated teens,
or teens with grit?

Because they have the potential to become super-achievers and innovators. They can become the future leaders who change the world. 

BFE has a rigorous application process that identifies  students who move toward goals—not solely in academics.  Athletics, arts and music, hobbies—even care of family members indicate that applicants have the thoughtfulness  and staying power that will be factors in their future success. 

Our program is intense, creative, fast-paced, fun, and full of endless opportunities. Students need to have the emotional foundation to take this amazing ride, and build on the incredible resources they are given. 

Economically Diverse Students

Students are admitted solely on merit without regard to ability to pay. Our classes are filled with students brimming with enthusiasm from every walk of life. Their affinity is their eagerness to learn.

We create an environment in which social advantage—and disadvantage—disappears. Our program requires that everyone step outside of their comfort zones—and that is a powerful equalizer. Students are given the opportunity to shine based on their individual talents.

How the Program Works

Over the course of two-weeks, students ages 14-18 have day-in-the-life experiences in ten inspirational careers, each led by an expert in their profession. Fields include STEAM, journalism, law, medicine, and more. One day, students work with an environmental scientist in a mountain stream; the next, they cut a music track for a TV show. 

We expand students’ view of the world beyond what they currently imagine possible. We push students to dream of living a life full of happiness and passion, and show them that it is they who will generate the big ideas of the future.

Connecting With Mentors and Developing Soft Skills

Visiting-Mentors attend select classes alongside students. These are high-performing professionals from a variety of fields who share their career stories with students and participate in class experiences. 

Each day, students and mentors do focused-reflection exercises, team activities, and writing assignments to:

• understand and express themselves;
• understand and relate to others, and;
• learn techniques to cope with daily demands. 

These are the foundation of all social skills most sought by colleges and employers today. Our methods have measurably increased our students’ abilities in:

• self-awareness; 
• effective interaction with others;
• coping with challenges; and
• willingness to embrace new thinking.

BFE graduates are inspired. They establish lifelong mentors and friendships. They make important discoveries. They expand their passions and discover new talents. They see themselves in a future they might not have dreamed possible before.

Our Scholarship Fund

In 2018, we will accept 120 students. Our goal is to admit 96 students on scholarship (80% of the class). 

Donate now, and provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to a highly-motivated teen who cannot afford to attend the program. Your generosity could change their future and life trajectory.