<p>Can anyone who took the Amherst College freshman “Reading and Study Skills” course comment on the value of the program? From the brochure, it is an optional 3 week, daily session (50 minute) program to help incoming freshman improve their reading, comprehension and study skills. The cost is $315. Is this necessary, or helpful, for a kid that is already a pretty good and diligent student? If you took it, would you do it again if you were an incoming freshman?</p>
<p>Thanks for any help.</p>
<p>I don’t know any one who took it, so I can’t common on it specifically. The vast majority of incoming freshman are probably prepared just fine for a college workload, and if not can acclimate quickly. There’s enough support services here after you arrive (Writing center, Q center, academic peer mentors, one on one tutoring, office hours, etc.) that most people will be able to overcome their difficulties. My guess would be that unless you have some special reason to believe that you specifically need this sort of extra preparation before you arrive, it’s probably unnecessary.</p>
<p>I agree with Catfish, my daughter didn’t take it nor did any of her friends. It just seems like another one of these money making programs to play on students fears about their ability to perform. I think it’s an unnecessary expense.</p>