Of the approximately 4,850,210 public high school students in Texas, only 200 will be accepted into TAMS, the Texas Academy of Math and Science, an early admissions college in the University of North Texas, with four of those 200 being current students here (a freshman and three sophomores).

1. is interested in a math, science, or engineering career;

2. completes Algebra II by the end of the sophomore year;

3. applies well before the deadline;

4. submits competitive SATs and transcripts;

5. extends to teachers and counselors the courtesy of two weeks to submit evaluations, and conveys gratitude for the favor;

6. submits a coherent, well-written essay which clearly articulates reasons for applying;

7. and confirms that all submissions have been received.

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TAMS is a two-year (grades 11-12), residential, early college entry program for high-ability students seeking careers in mathematics, science, engineering, or related disciplines. TAMS students take regular university classes taught by UNT faculty.

While attending TAMS, students will receive two years of high school credit while attending and receiving two years of college credit. Additionally, there is no cost for books, tuition, or housing.

However very few students know much about TAMS.

“I know that’s its a two year ‘pre-college’ program that’s supposed to be accelerated academically,” freshman Zoe Kahana said.

Admission to TAMS is competitive, and students are selected from schools large and small, public and private, and from every region of the state.

During the application process, applicants must present SAT scores, grades, and letters of recommendation implying the student is ready for college-level study. Students are also judged on maturity, motivation, behavior, and career interest.

Despite the rigorous application process, four current students will be attending next year, freshman Zoe Wang and sophomores Heidi Zettl, Emma Holmes, and Brady Johnson. Other students are waiting for acceptance as well.

“I learned of it through Duke TIP (Talent Identification Program),” Zettl said.

By attending TAMS, Zettl and others hope to get a head start on their future career.

“I plan on taking advantage of the unique opportunities TAMS offers, and using their high level classes to challenge myself to improve,” Zettl said. “Challenging oneself, always, is the best way to personal improvement. I will learn to be more efficient there, for example. I will likely be able to get a head start in engineering or medical school.”

At TAMS, residents compete in many competitions in the math and science field.

“I am most looking forward to the research opportunities and competitions such as the Siemen’s Competition that TAMSters can participate in,” Zettl said.

Despite the many advantages, there are some drawbacks.

“I will miss my friends, along with my parents and pets,” Zettl said. “However, TAMS students do have social activities that should make up for at least some of what I will not experience in public school.”

Friends of those leaving will miss them too.

• After two years, TAMS students will have earned at least 57 college credits. They may then either continue their education at UNT, or transfer to other universities in state or out, usually at an advanced standing.
• TAMS students must be Texas residents and have had completed Geometry and Algebra I and II by the end of the sophomore year. A competitive sophomore SAT is required.

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“I definitely will miss all the people I know that are leaving but I also recognize that this program will be really awesome for them,” freshman Ellie Hager said.

While there are advantages of attending TAMS, it is not for all students.

“Even though I wouldn’t want to do it, I think it is a really cool opportunity for students to put themselves on the fast track to success and expose themselves to a community of good influences,” Hager said. “I don’t think TAMS is for everyone, but those who know what they want to do in life can be greatly benefitted by this program.”

For most students, attending TAMS is the first time they will be living on their own or in a dorm room.

“Like mostly everyone going, it will be my first time living from my parents,” Zettl said. “It will be a new experience, but we will all make it enjoyable. TAMS graduates say that the people are great there, so it will become home.”