Transitioning to college is a big adjustment, and students who build strong college habits and social connections early are more likely to thrive. The LEAP Summer Start Experience provides support for this transition to incoming first-year students admitted to the University Park campus. The program, which runs during Summer Session II, combines small courses reserved for first-year students with peer support and housing within interest-based learning communities to help new students navigate the transition to college.
There is no need to sign up, new summer students automatically have access to the opportunities and supports the program provides. New students admitted to the fall semester should contact Undergraduate Admissions by May 1 and request to change their starting term to summer if they would like to participate in the program.
How does LEAP support student success?
Small classes help students build connections with faculty and each other while fostering a collaborative environment where they can form study groups, build friendships, and start their academic journey strong.
LEAP’s learning community housing brings students together with peers who have similar academic interests, creating opportunities to build connections, share experiences, and extend learning beyond the classroom.
Connection to a Peer Leader who provides support throughout the summer with check-ins and drop-in hours in the residence hall and in the Chaiken Center.
Monday Meetups for Success provide practical strategies and personalized guidance to navigate college life with confidence.
Each Monday Meetup covers key topics such as:
- Understanding academic expectations and getting organized
- Managing time effectively and balancing commitments
- Using campus resources and advocating for support
- Getting involved and building a sense of belonging
- Preparing for the fall semester and setting long-term goals
While participation is optional, students who engage in these sessions build strong academic habits, feel more connected, and gain confidence in their college journey. The skills and strategies students develop in Monday Meetups for Success will help them start strong in the fall and beyond. Peer Success Coaches will remain available as a resource throughout the academic year, ensuring students continue to receive support as they transition into their first full semester at Penn State.
LEAP Learning Communities
LEAP students have the opportunity to opt in to a learning community as part of their New Student Orientation process.
The learning communities for Summer 2026 include:
Arts, Design & Communication
Business & Entrepreneurship
Education & Helping Professions
Engineering & Technology
Exploratory Scholars
Health & Wellness
Liberal Arts: People, Society, and Change
Science & Mathematics
Sustainability, Agricultural, & Environmental Studies
LEAP Courses
Most courses offered in the LEAP program are general education courses that help students from any academic major make progress toward their degree requirements. Beginning in January, you can view courses being offered in LEAP by visiting the public class search. In the class search, set the attribute filter to "LEAP" and it will display all of the courses being offered in the program.
Want to learn more about the LEAP summer start experience?
Webinars will be held during the spring semester. Register for a webinar to learn more about this unique program and experience.