Summer Prep Academy helps new students adjust to college life

Summer Prep Academy 2

At a glance

40 incoming freshman Alfred State students worked with Habitat for Humanity Alfred State developed the Summer Preparation Academy, a four-week program designed to help freshmen accepted through the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and the Alfred State Opportunity Program (ASOP) become adjusted to the academic and personal challenges they would face as they began college.

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Acclimating to college can be an overwhelming experience, and historically, not everyone is successful in making the transition to higher education.

That’s why Alfred State developed the Summer Preparation Academy, a four-week program designed to help freshmen accepted through the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and the Alfred State Opportunity Program (ASOP) become adjusted to the academic and personal challenges they would face as they began college.

This past summer, more than 40 students participated in Summer Prep Academy, with another seven students acting as peer mentors. From July 25 to Aug. 18, the 40-plus students worked to enhance their skills in math, reading, writing, and studying – the foundations for college success. They also took part in career exploration, leadership development, and self-assessment inventories.

Outside of the classroom, the students were also introduced to the campus, took care of the necessary items to be prepared for the first day of classes, and participated in a variety of social and cultural activities on and off campus that were designed to build a sense of community and develop each student’s individual growth and mindset. Examples included taking part in Habitat for Humanity projects in Elmira, visiting a family entertainment center in Olean named Good Times, using Keuka College’s Ropes Course, and exploring Letchworth State Park.

“This past Summer Prep Academy was a great success,” said Associate Vice President of Academic Services Dr. Kathleen Ebert. “The students were able to become acclimated to college life, remediate their math and writing skills, make new friends and connections, and become empowered to be leaders in terms of academic success.”

For more information on Alfred State’s Summer Prep Academy, email summerbridge@alfredstate.edu or call 607-587-4122.

40 incoming freshman Alfred State students worked with Habitat for Humanity

A group of more than 40 incoming freshman students worked with Habitat for Humanity.