Summer Programs
The transition from high school to life at a college or university can be overwhelming and difficult, but there are some things you can do before college that can ensure a smoother adjustment. Summer college programs are one of those activities that can help prepare you for the academic, social, and residential aspects of life on a college campus. These programs may be right for you if you want to explore academic fields of interest to you and get a preview of what college is like.
Reasons to participate in summer college programs for high school students
- Take a proactive step in your academic future
- Experience the excitement of college life
- Explore various careers and majors
- Take classes similar to those in college
- Gain experience outside the classroom through hands-on activities
- In-depth study of a subject you're interested in
- Learn to investigate and navigate a college campus
- Interact with world-renowned and expert faculty
- Develop a talent or interest in a topic, field, or discipline
- Cultivate personal skills and characteristics, such as leadership and intelligence
- Form friendships with fellow students and future classmates
- Discover new things and learn about yourself and the world
Tips
Before selecting a summer program, think about your goals.
- What do you want to gain from a summer program? Keep in mind what your goals are and what you want to learn during a program.
- What type of summer program would be the most appropriate format in order to achieve your goal? What type of summer program would provide the best experience for you? Take into account your learning style.
- How much time do you want to invest in a summer program? Summer programs can range in length-a few days, weeks, or months.
- Do you want to travel to a different location and live on the college campus? There are some summer programs that are residential, which includes living in dorms with other students. Other programs have options where students can commute from home.
- Do you want to get high school or college credit for the summer programs?
- How much can you and you family spend on summer programs? Summer programs range in prices, including some free programs.
- Talk to your high school counselor about the summer programs you're interested in. Discuss your options and ask for their advice.
The Illinois Advantage
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers an array of summer programs through many of our colleges.
Check out the Fighting Illini Web site for all sport camps.