I will be attending the University of Virginia this upcoming fall, but right now I’m deciding what I’d like to do in the time before I leave. My initial plans were to get a part time job, continue learning Spanish, possibly take an online college course, but mainly just enjoy the summer with my friends before leaving for college. However, recently I was informed I could possibly participate in this program through UVA for URMs where I’d get to meet faculty, guidance in the transition to college, take courses at UVA in the summer, additional financial aid, etc. Although I still need to apply for this program, if given the chance, I’m unsure. It seems like a great opportunity to get ahead of the game especially with help financially, but part of me feels I need more time to digress and refresh my mind before college. If any of you have any advice that would be very helpful.
Note: I would have to move to UVA in late June and stay their for the rest of summer.
you don’t sound too excited about the program. I’d stay home unless there really is a lot of additional financial aid. Did they say how much it is? Will you have trouble paying for college without it?
If you don’t want to do the program, don’t do it.
As a graduating senior myself, I am looking forward to using the summer as a way to relax before college. It seems like you are too.
If you find the need to get ahead of the game, why don’t you take a class at a local community college. Assuming you are from Virginia, Community college credits should transfer (Since UVA is a state school), so it might be wise to fufil a gen-ed/core requirement before you get to college. This would allow you to ease up your schedule freshman year or allow time for interesting electives.
I think this program will be very beneficial for you in that it will make your transition to college much smoother. I highly encourage you to apply for the program so that you hit the ground running when the fall semester starts. You will get a chance to get familiar with the campus and college life before the rest of the freshmen class starts their semester.
UVA has very competitive students so this program will help you get used to the expectations that need to be met to be successful in academic work at the college level. Expect to put in a lot more effort into your studies than you did in high school. That first semester is a struggle for many students since it is the first time they are living away from home. It takes time to get used to doing everything on your own without having your parents watching over you. Many students did well in high school without much effort but in college it is very easy to get behind in your work. Take advantage of this opportunity that has been offered to you. It will only help you in becoming a successful college student. Too many times students go to college unprepared and find themselves on academic probation. College is very expensive and you want to do everything you can to make sure you have a positive experience.
After reading some of these comments, I’d do the program if it’s going to benefit your future. But, you can still make the time to enjoy your summer.
You’re not going to have too many more summers free after this. Take time to decompress and enjoy life for a little while.
Hang out with your friends. College starts soon enough. You won’t likely every have a summer free again. Make the best of it.
On the other hand, it might be good to start college knowing a bunch of people and various resources you can take advantage of.
I’d take advantage of this type of program if the cost is covered. Colleges know which students might struggle based on their applications, and these programs can really help you be successful. The only concern I’d have is if you really, really need the part time work income from this summer – then you might need to skip it. Otherwise I’d take advantage of it.
I think it’s hard leaving home and HS friends behind…at the beginning of summer or at the end. This sounds like a great program and I would encourage you to do it, even if there are financial costs. Make the campus your own before the huge tide of regular term students rolls in… just MHO
You will need to balance the advantages you feel you will receive by participating in this program vs. the additional costs you will incur by starting in June - housing, food, tuition, etc. If it’s going to cost little to no extra, go for it. Otherwise, spend your summer earning some money and taking a breather before the next 4 years of your life come rushing at you. I guarantee this will probably be the most carefree summer you will have for a longggg time.
Fill out the application and decide if you are accepted.
On the one hand, it’s hard to leave family and friends before you were ready to at the end of the summer, but if they are giving you extra academic support and financial aid, this could improve your chances of doing well for the next four years.
But applying is not the same as committing to attend. I say apply.
Yeah, @AroundHere has it right - it won’t be a choice for you unless you apply and are actually accepted. There may be an application fee, but hopefully it’s nominal. Sometimes we have to pay a little to help us make decisions on stuff.
I would stay home for the summer. It will really the last time to spend as much time with your school friends you will ever have.