News & Media

• Pre-college programs boost college readiness by building academic and personal skills.
• Explore interests early through academic exploration and unique courses.
• Get ahead with credit accumulation, saving time and money in college.
• Experience early college exposure to ease the transition into campus life.

For many high school students, the transition to college can feel like stepping into the unknown. The challenges of adapting to new academic expectations, navigating unfamiliar environments, and making decisions about future careers can be overwhelming. That’s where pre-college programs come in. These programs are designed to bridge the gap between high school and college, providing students with valuable tools, experiences, and knowledge that set them up for long-term success.

Whether you’re looking to build confidence, explore your interests, or get a head start on earning credits, pre-college programs offer a wide range of benefits. Here’s why participating in one might be the best decision for your future.

Build Confidence and Achieve College Readiness

One of the most significant benefits of pre-college programs is the opportunity to achieve college readiness before officially stepping onto campus as a full-time student. Many students face a steep learning curve during their first year of college, from managing their time effectively to understanding how to navigate academic resources.

Pre-college programs help eliminate that initial struggle. Through structured experiences, students gain exposure to the rigors of college-level coursework, develop essential study habits, and learn how to balance their responsibilities. These skills help ease the transition, ensuring that students are prepared to succeed both academically and personally.

Discover Your Passions Through Academic Exploration

High school students don’t always have the opportunity to dive deeply into subjects they’re curious about, especially if their school’s curriculum is limited. Pre-college programs open the door to academic exploration, allowing students to take classes that align with their interests or even uncover new passions they hadn’t considered before.

Imagine trying out a business course, a psychology class, or even hands-on STEM workshops. These experiences can ignite a spark that helps students clarify their career goals and feel more confident about choosing a college major. By exploring academic interests early, students can make more informed decisions when it’s time to enroll in college.

Get a Head Start with Credit Accumulation

Pre-college programs often offer opportunities for credit accumulation, allowing students to earn college credits before even graduating from high school. This head start can save time and money, enabling students to graduate earlier or lighten their course load during college.

For families concerned about the rising costs of higher education, earning credits in high school can significantly reduce financial strain. Additionally, entering college with credits already earned means students can often focus on more advanced courses, specializations, or internships earlier in their college journey.

At Lackawanna College, for example, students enrolled in pre-college programs can begin building a foundation for their academic future while earning credits that will transfer seamlessly into their degree path.

Experience Early College Exposure

The leap from high school to college is about more than academics—it’s a cultural and social shift as well. Pre-college programs provide valuable early college exposure, giving students a glimpse into what college life is really like.

Participants often get to experience aspects of campus life, from attending lectures in a collegiate setting to engaging with peers from diverse backgrounds. This early exposure helps students acclimate to the college environment, making the eventual transition feel less intimidating. It’s an opportunity to test the waters, practice independence, and build relationships—all while still benefiting from the support of their high school network.

Additionally, this exposure can help students feel more comfortable navigating the logistical side of college, such as understanding campus resources, interacting with professors, and utilizing tools like academic advisors or writing centers.

Gain a Competitive Edge

In today’s competitive college admissions process, standing out from other applicants is more important than ever. Participating in a pre-college program demonstrates initiative, motivation, and a genuine commitment to learning. These traits are highly valued by admissions officers.

When students apply to colleges, highlighting their participation in programs designed for college readiness and academic exploration shows that they’ve taken steps to prepare themselves for the next level. It signals that they are serious about their education and have the skills to succeed in a college setting.

Build Lasting Relationships

Another often-overlooked benefit of pre-college programs is the chance to form lasting relationships with peers, mentors, and even college faculty. Students meet others who share similar academic goals and interests, creating a supportive network that can follow them into their college years and beyond.

These connections can be especially valuable for students who choose to attend the same institution where they completed a pre-college program. Entering college with an existing network can help ease the adjustment process and make the experience more enjoyable.

Find the Right Fit

Pre-college programs also give students a chance to “test drive” a college before committing to attending. Spending time on campus, engaging with faculty, and experiencing the overall atmosphere can provide valuable insights into whether a school feels like the right fit.

At Lackawanna College, we’re proud to offer programs that support students in exploring their academic interests, earning credits, and gaining the confidence they need to succeed. These programs are designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to benefit from early exposure to college life.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

Are you a high school student looking to jump-start your college journey? Explore our Pre-College Programs to gain valuable experience and set yourself up for success. Visit our admissions and enrollment page to learn about how to apply, financial aid options, and student support services.

Discover exciting career pathways and take the first step toward a bright future. Join a community of motivated students and supportive professionals who are committed to helping you succeed. Your future starts now—let’s make it happen together!