ACE (Academic Clark Excellence) Summer Institute
August 8 - 22
Are you an African descent, Latino/a, Native American, or Asian American (ALANA) domestic student, or a first-generation college student? Do you want to get a head start on your academic career and make great friends before the school year begins? If so, consider attending Clark's ACE Summer Institute prior to the Week One orientation program. The ACE Summer Institute is a living and learning community that will help you make a smooth transition from high school to college. Applications to the program must be received by June 7.
The ACE Summer Institute will assist you, as a promising first-year student, in making your transition from high school to college easy. The skills developed during the program will make your Clark experience rewarding and assist you in reaching the academic goals you set. It's also a great opportunity to make friends before the school year begins while getting a head start on your career.
During The ACE Summer Institute we will assist you in accomplishing the following:
- Become familiar with the campus and the city of Worcester before the semester begins.
- Complete an intensive overview course in pre-calculus (for science majors) or quantitative math (for non-science majors).
- Complete overview courses in writing for college, psychology, and learn to work in the science labs.
- Become part of a community with your peers, faculty, and staff while building your leadership skills.
- Develop your understanding of requirements for graduation according to your field of interest.
- Participants also complete workshops that provide an overview of undergraduate courses, leadership opportunities and diversity, and meet administrators and faculty. Additionally, they complete externships, site visits, attend field trips and are matched with a mentor with a similar academic interest.
Participants also receive an overview of undergraduate courses and student leadership opportunities. This happens prior to course registration for the fall semester, so you'll have a good idea of the courses you should take during your first year at Clark. You will be enrolled in two courses during the program and receive academic credit towards graduation, [these courses are non transferable should you leave Clark]. The courses are Math for College and Writing for College. Approximately 30 students are selected to participate in the program, so early application is encouraged. The program is free, and books and academic materials are provided.
Continuing support for ACE students
If you participate in the ACE Summer Institute, you will benefit from continuing support and mentoring throughout your undergraduate years. The resource room is staffed with trained peer mentors to provide individual and group support with course work. Informational workshops are offered each month on topics such as renewing the financial aid application, budgeting for college, and student leadership. Ongoing academic advising and career planning is available as well.