How do you usually spend your summer? If you answered, “Sitting around doing nothing,” you may want to plan ahead now and make next summer one to remember! Consider a pre-college summer program at a school like the University of Rochester that can help boost your chances of college success! Check out our interview with Ursula Balent, pre-college summer program coordinator at the University of Rochester.
What does a residential pre-college summer program look like at the University of Rochester?
Students may choose between one-, two-, and three-week noncredit courses offered through Rochester Scholars or four-week, credit-bearing courses offered through Taste of College.
The students’ day begins with breakfast at 8 a.m. Morning Rochester Scholars classes run from 9 a.m. until noon, when lunch begins. Afternoon Rochester Scholars classes run from 1 to 4 p.m. Courses are structured like traditional college seminars and promote learning by doing. Students actively participate in a variety of workshops, class discussions, field trips, group projects, experiments, and labs, putting newfound knowledge to use in independent and creative ways. Classes are taught by select University faculty and graduate students, along with top local educators, who have demonstrated their commitment and enthusiasm to cultivating the minds of young students. With smaller class sizes, instructors have the time to mentor and guide each student and give valuable insights into theories, technologies, and principles of the field.
Class times for students enrolled in credit-bearing undergraduate classes through Taste of College vary, but classes typically run for a total of 3 hours and are held 3-5 days a week. The program allows motivated students to explore subjects that are typically reserved for study on a collegiate level. Courses are offered during the University’s summer academic semesters, and credits are transferable to most colleges and universities.
If a student is not enrolled in both morning and afternoon classes, they may use the free time to enjoy the many activities available, study, browse the libraries, or simply relax. Students are also encouraged to attend information sessions, workshops, campus tours, and interviews offered by the Office of Admissions.
How old should students be to participate, and what can they study?
Rochester Scholars classes and the residential offerings are open to students entering grades 9-12. Courses offer hands-on classroom activities that introduce students to fields of study such as art, photography, journalism, music, history, forensic science, neuroscience, medicine, and engineering, among others. Classes are also offered in partnership with the Eastman School of Music, the School of Medicine and Dentistry, and the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Life Sciences Learning Center.
For high school juniors and seniors looking to get a jump start on their college careers, our Taste of College program offers the chance to earn college credits and study among University of Rochester undergraduates. Typical Taste of College course subjects have included Calculus, Intro to Philosophy, American Sign Language, Prep for College Chemistry, and Principles of Economics, among others.
Why should a college-bound student think about giving up part of their summer to enroll in a pre-college program?
Students will get a true taste of the college environment and gain new perspectives on their academic abilities and potential. In addition, they can investigate their educational goals and explore career possibilities. Students build lasting relationships with peers who share similar academic and personal interests. Participants who enroll in the residential component of Rochester Scholars or Taste of College will have the opportunity to meet with admissions counselors, attend workshops about the admissions process, and receive tips and advice for study skills. These programs are also attractive additions to college applications. Students can add the program to their resumes, write about their experiences in application essays, or talk about it during interviews with admissions counselors. A student who elects to spend time pursuing an academic interest beyond the school environment often translates into a very interesting applicant.
What options are available for younger students?
Rochester Scholars Jr. is designed for students in grades 6-8. The program runs for one week during the summer and offers just the right mix of intellectual stimulation, academic freedom, and gentle guidance and support from instructors. During the lunch hour, Rochester Scholars Jr. students participate in supervised activities and games on campus.
Any advice for a student considering a pre-college program? What should they look for? Anything in particular they should be prepared to bring with them?
Look for programs that offer courses students are interested in exploring. Determine what it is they want to get out of a pre-college program. Talk to former program participants. Determine what the family can afford and ask if there are scholarships available.
Ask if the program is run by the university itself or another organization renting space on campus. Summer is a great time for students to try something new and explore their options. All they need to bring is their excitement and willingness to learn!
So what’s new in 2011?
We are very excited to be offering a pre-college study abroad program for rising juniors and seniors to Malawi, Africa. The two-week Malawi Immersion Summer Seminar offers a unique opportunity to experience Malawi and its culture through exploration, community mapping, research activities, interviews, and field notes. Trips will include extraordinary travels to villages, museums, parks, and safaris. Students will walk away with enhanced knowledge of the customs, cultural and political milieu, and historical context of Malawi.
The University of Rochester’s Office of Pre-College Programs is always adding new classes and exciting opportunities. Please refer to http://enrollment.rochester.edu/admissions/precollege/ for the latest, most comprehensive information. Please adhere to scholarship and application deadlines.
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