At Skidmore's Pre-College Summer Program, I studied different aspects of love in an advanced writing seminar. In addition to studying in the writing class, I was a part of an exercise science class. In my writing class, I learned about the four types of love through a few narratives and independent films. We analyzed these pieces in the form of debates and essays. In the exercise science class, I learned of the body's response to exercise, and the importance and benefits physical activity has on your body. In this class, we learned through lectures and performed labs. We also presented through group oral presentations, lab reports, and our knowledge was tested through pop-quizzes. 

During the program, some students volunteered to participate in a show that raised money for a domestic violence crisis center in downtown Saratoga Springs. Participating in this performance had a very humbling impact on my fellow performers and me. We performed for a great cause, and helped in a great way. A lot of money was raised and was donated to this great cause that benefited students just like us.

Attending this program influenced my plans for my future in the same way that my exercise science class helped me figure out what areas in the science field I would like to further study. I enjoyed the biology section taught in the curriculum. I appreciated how the internal systems of the body function. After learning a little bit about biology in a college-level course, I am considering this subject as a major or minor when I attend college.

I would absolutely recommend this program to a friend due to the diversity of the school and the program itself. Many fun activities were organized, while spare time was reasonably monitored, giving the student a feel for the "college-life." I thought the courses offered had a very wide variety of subjects to choose from, making the decision process very easy. Within the program, many great students from all different backgrounds gathered in a friendly and safe environment for an exciting 5 weeks. 

I would recommend that students who attend this program use their time management skills wisely in order to be able to have a fun, educating and social experience in the program, like a college student would. Also, it is very important to be open-minded to try new activities.

The first picture was taken during the rehearsals of our performance for the crisis center. A partnered jazz routine was choreographed. The second picture was taken during the exercise science class when my partner and I performed a lab and measured each others' blood pressures.

Experiencing what it would be like to live in a dorm and take college courses are just a couple of reasons why I am excited to attend a summer college program.  I look forward to being independent and being responsible for getting to class on time and studying each night.  I have two goals while I'm there.  One is to successfully earn college credits and the other is to hopefully make life long friends.  It’s important for me that I find time to study and socialize equally. I’m a little nervous about the accommodations and roommate situation.  I hope that I make friends easily and that I find people I have things in common with.  What may be a challenge for me is the college level coursework.  But I have great study skills and determination that will help me get through any difficulties that I may encounter.  This experience will help me prepare for the next stage in my life, and I am very excited about it!

Thank you for your generous contribution. You are making it possible for me to attend a summer college program. Without your help, I would not be able to have this experience. I want you to know that I really appreciate your kindness and will not take your generosity for granted. I will study hard, prepare for college and do the best that I can every step of the way.