UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- New students in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences can take advantage of a program designed to help bridge the gap between high school and college.

For six weeks each summer, the Learning Edge Academic Program, or LEAP, helps entering freshmen make the often difficult transition to college life and academics. LEAP is a universitywide program, but the College of Agricultural Sciences has developed a modified version, often referred to as AgLEAP.

AgLEAP is open to all students accepted to enter University Park for their freshman year. Students need not be enrolled in the College of Agricultural Sciences. However, many students find it useful to become acquainted with faculty in their desired field of study.

Javier Moreno, a sophomore in agricultural and extension education, served as the College of Agricultural Sciences LEAP mentor for the summer of 2003. Moreno coordinated study sessions and extracurricular activities for the 20 students in the program. His objective was to serve as a voice of experience for the novice students.

According to Moreno, there are many benefits to becoming involved in LEAP. "The biggest advantages," he says, "are getting to know the faculty, getting to know your colleagues and getting your foot in the door regarding undergraduate research."

Participating in research is an aspect of LEAP available only in the College of Agricultural Sciences. It is an important element of the summer coursework, along with learning successful study skills and comprehensive writing. Upon completion of the six-week session, students earn six credits toward graduation. "One advantage," Moreno adds, "is that faculty for all three courses work together to coordinate schedules, organize field trips and integrate course material." In addition to the academic work, LEAP provides social interaction. LEAP students live in the same dorms, attend pizza parties and play recreational sports."

Moreno offers one more piece of advice for high school students. "Students with all types of backgrounds -- rural and urban -- can take advantage of the AgLEAP program," he says. "It's a great opportunity to get a head start."

For more information on Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences and the LEAP program, visit the web at http://www.cas.psu.edu or contact Dr. Barbara Wade in the Office of Undergraduate Education at 814-865-7521. EDITORS: Contact Javier Moreno at jmoreno@psu.edu or Barbara Wade at bwade@psu.edu.

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Contact:

Lori Connelly llc143@psu.edu 814-863-0416 814-863-9877 fax

Chuck Gill cdg5@psu.edu 814-863-2713 814-863-9877 fax #288