Pre-college programs are an incredible way for high schoolers to get a taste of college life, allowing them to take classes at their dream university, meet other prospective students, connect with professors and, depending on the program type they choose, even experience dorm life. While not all pre-college programs are affiliated with universities, the ones that are provide an extra jumpstart to your college career.
Students who pursue a residential pre-college program can live on campus, letting them get a feel for what daily life is like at their chosen school. This is an important benefit for many teens, but others prefer to stay home while attending a pre-college program. So, how do you know which option is best for you?
Here are the perks (and downsides!) of staying overnight at a pre-college program, commuting or attending virtually.
What Are Pre-College Programs?
Pre-college programs allow high schoolers to take classes at a university, so they can earn college credit and see what it would be like to attend the school on a full-time basis. Think of it as a trial run: Most happen during the summer and last a few weeks, although you’ll find programs of varying lengths throughout the year. USC offers a variety of pre-college programs tailored to students’ interests and intended majors.
While some have a more general focus, many university-affiliated pre-college programs will focus on a specific field of study. This can help students nail down their intended major, which may influence where they go to college. USC, for example, offers a spectrum of programs for every kind of prospective student, including performing arts, engineering, business, journalism, law, science and more.
Many summer programs also let students experience dorm life firsthand. Staying overnight on campus can help teens build confidence, exert their independence and see what kind of university they’d like to live at.
Of course, students don’t have to stay on campus. If you’re local, you can simply commute. There are also virtual options for pre-college programs!
What Are the Pros of Residential Pre-College Programs?
There are many reasons why someone would choose a residential pre-college program. After all, if you plan to live on campus when you embark on your bachelor’s degree, you’ll need to stay on college grounds at some point. Why not get acquainted with campus life now?
Here are some of the perks of attending residential programs at a university, such as the four-week summer courses USC offers:
Decide what kind of campus you’d like to live on. No two university campuses are the same, and it can be hard to decide what college experience you want to have. For example, some people prioritize campuses based in big cities, while others want to attend a school with a well-known sports team. Residential pre-college programs let you identify what you gravitate toward, which will help you when it’s time to make college decisions.
Get to know other prospective students. While you’ll undoubtedly become acquainted with other program participants during your classes, the real bonding tends to happen outside of the classroom. When you stay in the dorms, you’ll have more opportunities to meet people and talk about more than academics.
Immerse yourself in the program. Being in the pre-college program 24/7 makes it easier to experience your chosen school. If you leave college grounds for the night, it may not feel like you’re getting the full picture.
Build your confidence and independence. For most people, college is the first time they’ll be living on their own. Pre-college programs can help ease your nerves and give you a taste of what it’s like to navigate college on your own. Many participants emerge more confident, self-assured and ready to make this major life change.
Familiarize yourself with campus grounds. College campuses usually have signs everywhere, but they can still be tough to navigate when you first arrive. When you’re a resident at a pre-college program, you can tour all the buildings and get the lay of the land. That way, you won’t be late to your first class or miss the best meals at the cafeteria when you start school.
What Are the Benefits of Commuting to a Pre-College Program?
There are also plenty of reasons why someone may prefer to commute to their pre-college program, which is also an option for USC Summer Programs. Commuting can make attending the program more accessible for many high schoolers, and it doesn’t take away from the value.
Of course, commuting is only an option if you live nearby. If you can easily drive or take public transit to the university, this option may make the most sense. Here are some other benefits:
Commuting brings down the cost of a pre-college program. Everyone knows college credits are expensive. Adding room and board may make a pre-college program financially out of reach for many people. By cutting out food and lodging costs, high schoolers may find that a pre-college program is finally an affordable summer option.
The experience can be more comfortable. Going away to live with strangers is intimidating for anyone, but it can be especially tough when you’re still in your teens. By living at home, students can avoid the anxiety of sleeping in a dorm and take breaks from the potential stress of the pre-college program.
You can juggle multiple responsibilities. Many high schoolers have obligations that make going away for a pre-college program seem impossible. They may have to hold down part-time jobs, practice their sport or help care for family members. By commuting to the program, you’ll still have time to devote to the other important things in your life.
The program is still a valuable experience. While it can be fun to stay in dorms and explore a campus, the real value of a pre-college program is the classes you’ll attend and the connections you’ll make. You still get all that when you commute!
Another important perk of attending an on-campus pre-college program — whether you stay overnight or commute? They help you signal interest in a university. You can note your program attendance in your college application, which will reveal “demonstrated interest” to your college or university of choice.
What Are Some Perks of Virtual Pre-College Programs?
There is a third option for some pre-college programs: attending virtually. This means that high schoolers can take classes or attend lectures and seminars online. USC’s online pre-college exploration courses allow students to explore their interests — ranging from cybersecurity to film — on a flexible schedule.
Here are some reasons you might want to attend a virtual pre-college program.
Online classes are usually the most affordable option. As mentioned, pre-college programs can be cost-prohibitive for some. However, online classes are usually more affordable than in-person ones, so it’s worth looking into virtual options if you want to save money.
You can attend programs that are across the country. Many high schoolers are interested in colleges that are thousands of miles away from where they live. That can make visiting for a pre-college program logistically and financially tricky. With a virtual program, you can attend from almost anywhere in the world.
Online classes are still enjoyable and informative. Learning online is a more common and streamlined process than ever. A virtual pre-college program is still a great way to take college classes and try on a potential major, even if you aren’t sitting in a campus classroom!
Pre-college programs are a great way to try out university life before taking the plunge. It’s up to you to choose the format that best fits your situation and goals. No matter whether you choose a residential or commuter program, you’re bound to make memories and learn more about yourself — and your chosen school.
Learn more about USC Summer and Online Pre-College Programs today.