College Prep Week
Each summer, the GVSU Charter Schools Office invites high school 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students from GVSU-authorized charter schools to participate in a week of academic and cultural exploration. During College Prep Week, students from across Michigan take a deep dive into everything Grand Valley State University offers to experience what it is like to be a college student!
In-Person College Prep Week
What to Expect
When you come to Allendale for College Prep Week, our college summer simulator program, you jump right into a non-stop schedule that keeps you moving, learning, and having fun. Many of the activities focus on college preparation, personal growth, and stepping out of your comfort zone to try something new!
College Preparation
- Campus tours
- Staying in living centers
- Exploring campus and what you want to study
- Simulated college classes with GVSU professors
- Connect with GVSU students and faculty
- Learn about college resources and student support
- Motivational speakers from GVSU
- Free GVSU college application
- Mental Health Workshop
Adventures & Activities
- Full Day at Michigan's Adventure
- Explore downtown Grand Rapids and local business
- Lasertag, Ninja Warrior courses, and more!
- Team-building challenges
- Prize drawing to win GVSU swag!
Professional Preparation
- Resume-building
- Personal management skill development
- Prepare for professional settings
- Practicing presenting to an audience
Virtual College Prep Week
What to Expect
Another option available to students is a completely virtual College Prep Week experience! This opportunity allows students to participate in fun, engaging online activities, connect with other students from across the state, and focus on college preparation!
College Preparation
- Math 4 Success SAT Preparation
- Connect with GVSU students and faculty
- Learn about college resources and student support
- Free GVSU college application
- Mental Health Workshop
Activities
- Virtual Escape Rooms
- Engaging Group Games
- Motivational speakers from GVSU
Professional Preparation
- Resume-building
- Personal management skill development
- Prepare for professional settings
- Practicing presenting to an audience
The Staff
Leadership
The GVSU College Prep Week is led by the Charter Through College Team. Shelby Powell, Dr. Barry Hall, and Genevieve Reside - along with other members of the GVSU Charter Schools Office - plan the major details of the week and are often working "behind the scenes" as the students participate in the day's activities.
College Prep Week Navigators
The GVSU Charter Schools Office recruits current GVSU undergraduate students to be "college prep navigators." These students are typically entering their junior or senior year of college and provide the high school students with insight about the college experience. They work alongside the high school students throughout the entire week and help answer questions.
