Life-Changing Learning in Nature
For High School Juniors and Seniors
Why Choose Maine Coast Semester?
Maine Coast Semester offers a unique, four-month educational program that takes students out of the traditional classroom and into a hands-on, experiential learning environment. Our program includes backcountry adventures, science field labs, and daily opportunities to learn about sustainable living. Graduates often describe Maine Coast Semester as “the place where I learned how to make a difference in the world.”
During the semester, students participate in rigorous and relevant academic classes, and interact with a diverse group of peers and educators from across the country. The natural landscapes of Maine, including rocky shores, salt marshes, boreal forests, and sandy beaches, serve as the primary setting for this educational experience. Students also have the opportunity to become part of a close-knit community, where we work collaboratively on tasks such as farming, wood splitting, and other responsibilities that are crucial to the functioning of the group.
Maine Coast Semester is the perfect choice for students looking for a unique and meaningful educational experience that will prepare them for college and well beyond. With our emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning, you will gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a positive and lasting impact on the world.
What's so unique about a Maine Coast Semester experience?
The Coast of Maine
Over 400 unspoiled acres on the Maine Coast are yours for inspiration, education, and exploration, whether you’re modeling tidal changes, designing energy-friendly buildings, or hiking our network of trails.
The Academics
With a 3:1 student-faculty ratio, a rigorous curriculum, and the natural world as a laboratory, Maine Coast Semester challenges you to break through classroom walls and not just learn, but do.
The Backcountry
Not every classroom is in a room. You’ll learn life-long skills to hike, paddle, camp, and explore the natural world.
The Farm
Put your head, heart, and hands to work growing and harvesting food and caring for livestock on our sustainable, working organic farm. You won’t just learn about sustainability, you’ll live it.
You should go!
“I learned what a positive and inclusive community really is, and I gained a much deeper appreciation for the natural world. I pushed myself academically through the small class sizes and hands-on learning.”
10 years later...
“…I am continually discovering new things about myself that I can trace back to Chewonki. It has been a hugely transformational experience, and not just in the short term.”
I was challenged...
“…academically, socially, and my world-view grew. I made lifelong friends who I am still in touch with, and I carry the memories and lessons from my time at Maine Coast Semester with me every day.”
What Maine Coast Semester Alumni Have to Say!
To the Point
Our Student Blog
Welcome to our next Director of Maine Coast Semester, Sarah Rebick!
Dear Chewonki Community, I am pleased to announce that Sarah Rebick has been unanimously chosen by our search committee and …
A Walk in the Woods
Since being at Chewonki, one of my favorite things to do is go on walks with my friends or by …
Birding Field Lab
Every week, as part of our science class, we spend an afternoon doing a field lab. We pile into the …
Connected by Creativity
‘Twas the night before classes started and stress was high. Semester 72 had been at Chewonki for three days and …
Game Night
The days at Chewonki are long and packed with activities. Most nights my cabin and I go straight to sleep …
The Game With No Name
The game, with no name. The members of Gordy cabin semester 72 play a silent game, a game of no …
110%
I don’t want to brag, but I’m still alive. Meeting new people always seems difficult and staying with old friends …