Penn State Summer Session, what's it like?

greenbutton
Sat, 25 Jan 2014 23:03:40 +0000

Summer semester should not be confused with LEAP, the program for incoming freshmen. You can be a summer admit and choose to not LEAP, although I can’t imagine why… LEAP underwent some real transformations in past years, but generally speaking you take a pair of classes chosen from the LEAP list. It’s usually a class related to a potential major, and a Gen Ed. (often speech or writing, but not always). The same people are in both classes, and these are small classes (25 people or so) and this is your LEAP pride. Prides all have an upperclass advisor/student who plans activities like going to sporting events, etc to help you see what’s going on. The Prides fill up so don’t wait forever to choose. If you don’t LEAP, then you just choose classes. Remember that the session is shorter so the classes are more concentrated – you won’t be taking a full load unless you are a workaholic.

In August, there will be very limited space for some storage; better to plan to take what little you bring back home. LEAPers live on the same floors/dorms so it is unlikely to be your fall dorm. Summer in State College is wonderful – concerts, ArtsFest, sports, an uncrowded campus, nice weather, one of the country’s biggest fireworks displays…Both my students did LEAP, and made some really good friends. Hope this helps any worries