Why Choose Early Start - West Lafayette
Early Start is a 5-week summer program run by Purdue’s Office of Summer and Winter Sessions designed to provide incoming Purdue students with college-readiness opportunities, such as becoming familiar with campus, taking classes to jump-start degree progress, and finding a community, all before the hustle and bustle of their first regular fall semester.
The transition from high school to college is challenging, so in 2017, Purdue started the Early Start Program to foster a sense of belonging in students, prepare them for the academic rigor of Purdue, and ensure they hit the ground running in the fall of their freshman year. Since then, over thousands have begun their journey as a Purdue student feeling more prepared academically with a boost to GPA, more aware of the support available to them as students with knowledge of all Purdue’s resources, and more integrated into the student life at Purdue by spending the summer with a tight-knit community of peers, all of whom are practicing being successful Purdue students through Early Start.
Over the 5 weeks of the program, students work with their assigned peer mentor, an upperclassman trained to guide incoming freshmen toward success at Purdue, using their own experience to provide relevant, specific guidance. Peer mentors come from different programs across Purdue, and every Early Start student has access to all peer mentors during the summer for a wide variety of experiences to support their path to college readiness. The relationship students build with their peer mentor as they navigate college life and begin to network among their new community really underscores the mission of Early Start: to ensure that all students connect, thrive, and feel like they belong at Purdue
Advantages of Early Start
Starting college in the summer instead of the fall can offer a range of benefits that might appeal to students looking for a smoother transition into their college experience. Here are several reasons why a summer start could be advantageous:
Easing the Transition
During the summer session, you’ll move into your residence hall, get settled, and discover campus life—from the dining courts to study spots — all in a supportive environment. You’ll take 6 to 9 credit hours, easing into the rigor of Purdue courses without the intensity of a full fall schedule. It’s the perfect way to build your transition from high school to college, develop strong study habits, and feel at home before the excitement of fall begins.
Building Confidence
Starting early reduces the stress of figuring everything out at once—classes, friends, clubs, housing—so that by the time the fall semester arrives, you’ll be well-prepared and less anxious about the transition.
Establishing Connections Early
With fewer students on campus during the summer, connections with professors, advisors, and peers become more accessible. Establishing these relationships early on can create a strong support network for when the full student body returns in the fall.
Getting Ahead Academically
By starting in the summer, students can complete prerequisite or introductory courses ahead of time, lightening their load for the fall semester. This can be especially beneficial for those in demanding majors or those who want to explore a wider range of electives and extracurriculars.
These early credits can help lighten future course loads, allowing more time to balance academics with internships, study abroad opportunities, or extracurriculars during the regular academic year.
Exploring Campus Resources
With fewer students on campus during the summer, it’s easier to explore and become familiar with the campus, including libraries, labs, and student services. This knowledge can be a significant advantage when the full student body returns in the fall.
Flexible Schedule
Summer start programs often offer flexible scheduling options, allowing students to focus on a few courses at a time. This flexibility can reduce stress and help students balance their academic responsibilities with personal interests or part-time jobs.
Standing Out
Starting college in the summer highlights a student’s initiative and willingness to go above and beyond. This proactive choice demonstrates to professors and potential employers a readiness to maximize the college experience and a commitment to success from day one.
Boosting Academic Performance
Studies have shown that students who participate in summer start programs often perform better academically in their first year. The focused, immersive experience helps them develop the skills and resilience needed to tackle the challenges of college-level coursework.
Experience Campus at Your Own Pace
Enjoy a different side of Purdue in the relaxed, open atmosphere of summer. With fewer students on campus, there’s more room to explore scenic spots, discover study spaces, and enjoy recreational facilities—all at a pace that feels right for you. Summer is the ideal time to settle in, make Purdue feel like home, and fully enjoy everything campus has to offer, free from the usual hustle and bustle.
Taking Advantage of Unique Opportunities
Starting college in the summer offers exclusive opportunities, including specialized courses, unique research projects, and internships designed to accelerate academic and career growth. Through partnerships with Purdue’s top academic units, these programs offer early exposure to various fields, hands-on experiences, and connections with mentors. Choosing a summer start helps ease the transition to college life while providing a strategic head start on academic and professional path.
Peer Mentors
Early Start provides access to dedicated tutoring, academic advising, and peer mentors who help students navigate coursework and Purdue life from the beginning. Each small group is assigned a Peer Mentor for more personalized support, offering insights on balancing classes, locating campus resources, and adjusting to student life. Peer mentors serve as valuable guides, sharing their experiences and helping students feel connected as they transition into Purdue.