Illinois program prepares high schoolers for college success

Getting a college degree can significantly boost one’s career and income prospects. But many students who start college drop out and don’t finish — a phenomenon many experts believe stems from barriers to accessing resources that could aid their academic success. Additionally, it’s not uncommon for high schoolers who intend to apply for college to never actually do so, a trend that disproportionately affects students of color, low-income students and first-generation students.

To try to head off these discouraging patterns, University of Illinois Extension professionals held the Illini Summer Academies in 2023. About 120 youths spent a few days at the university delving into electrical and computer engineering, veterinary medicine, health sciences, business, social issues and more in faculty-led sessions. In the evenings, the campers experienced social and enrichment activities, giving them a taste of college life — from making friends to learning to navigate financial aid programs. They even spent nights in campus dorms.

Youth reported discovering new career paths and improving their college readiness. They also expressed interest in learning more about the topics covered in the faculty-taught events.

“I loved all of the people that I met here and the college experiences we were able to have,” one participant shared in a survey. “The things that we learned were really interesting and definitely confirmed my passion for science.”

Project supported by fee-based funding and state appropriations.