The end of high school and transition to college may appear daunting to many teenagers. At MGH Aspire, we believe that previewing and building a greater understanding of what to expect can reduce the anxiety that often accompanies novel experiences. With this philosophy in mind, College Explorations provides participants a hands-on, authentic glimpse into the college experience.
College Explorations is designed for high school students (ages 14 – 17), who are early in the college planning process. In this three-day summer program, participants learn about campus life, gain insight into the social aspects of college, and cover topics related to academics (e.g., decoding a syllabus and accessing student support resources).
College Explorations takes place on a college campus. Participants will eat meals at the dining halls, explore the campus, and spend one night in a dorm-like setting. Discussions will focus on the differences between high school and college in regard to structure, academics, and social expectations.
College Explorations discussion topics may include:
- Decoding a college syllabus
- Navigating a college campus
- How to find “your people” at college
- How to access counseling and academic support services
- Reflecting on one's learning style
- Exploring time management and organizational strategies