The Summer Institute introduces students who have been chosen for the OUS program to Colgate's academic rigor and to the campus. The institute is designed to bridge the transition to college with a focus on the academic culture of Colgate. The program promotes persona. growth and educational achievement.
Academics
From early July to mid-August, OUS students live on campus and participate in 1.5 academic courses taught by Colgate faculty, with an emphasis on critical reading, analytical writing, and quantitative literacy skills.
Colgate recognizes that not everyone has access to abundant resources, engaging teachers and counselors, and state-of-the-art technology. This could be due to personal economic circumstances or inadequately funded public schools. Consequently, not all students arrive at Colgate with a backpack full of academic, social, and economic privileges. The OUS program begins with a five-week, pre-first-year Summer Institute. The Summer Institute strengthens OUS scholars' academic skills by immersing them in the culture of this rigorous institution of higher learning. Indeed, we aim to see the students for more than just their grit and determination. We want to validate their experiences in order for them to thrive in this educational setting.
In addition to taking courses, students are introduced to various resources available on campus, including the libraries, career services, and financial aid.
Mentorship
Throughout the Summer Institute, six OUS juniors and seniors serve as community liaisons and help guide participants through the academic rigors and expectations of a Colgate education. Moreover, students receive one-on-one advising from members of the faculty as part of the supplemental academic advising process.
How to Join
The Summer Institute is open exclusively to students admitted to Colgate in the Office of Undergraduate Studies (OUS). All applicants to Colgate are considered for the OUS program — no additional application is necessary or possible. If accepted to the program, students will be notified with their Colgate acceptance letter. Full participation in the Summer Institute is an additional admission requirement for students enrolled as OUS scholars.
Community
Programming also introduces participants to various offices that manage student affairs and campus life. In addition, students will be introduced to Hamilton and its surrounding communities to learn about the myriad offerings in their new home-away-from-home.