UNE launches immersive pre-college experience to prepare high school students for university life

The University of New England is introducing an immersive pre-college experience to prepare participating high school students for the academic rigor and collaborative nature of higher education. 

To be offered for the first time this July, UNE’s NextWave Pre-College Experience will bring together students in grades 10–12 for a full week of learning and research on UNE’s coastal Biddeford Campus. The residential program — open to all students regardless of their intended academic major — will provide participants with an interdisciplinary learning environment to engage in hands-on research, develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges, and glimpse life at Maine’s largest independent university.

UNE faculty experts in business, science, mathematics, health care, education, and the humanities will lead students in teams to conduct research, apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and present their findings before an audience at the week’s end. 

In addition to the academic curriculum, students will reside in UNE dorms, allowing them to build relationships with like-minded peers while experiencing university life firsthand.

Research indicates that participation in pre-college programs can significantly enhance a student’s readiness for higher education and see students through to graduation. 

Golshan Madraki, Ph.D., associate professor of supply chain management in UNE’s College of Business and director of the NextWave Pre-College Experience, underscored the program’s value in preparing students for the next stage of their education.

“NextWave is designed to engage motivated high school students in a dynamic learning environment where they can explore their intellectual curiosity while developing the critical thinking and communication skills essential for college success,” Madraki said. “We are excited to welcome the inaugural group of innovators to UNE this summer.”

After each day’s academic session, students will engage in a variety of on- and off-campus activities focused on recreation and team building, including kayaking and boating on the University’s scenic waterfront, bonfires and volleyball on UNE’s campus beach, ice skating in the Harold Alfond Forum, and a night at the Portland Sea Dogs.

Students will also complete a variety of interactive exercises in UNE’s world-class teaching facilities, like cooking in the University’s nutrition teaching kitchen, filming in the newly constructed Nor’easter Production Studio, touring the Arthur P. Girard Marine Science Center, and exploring aquaculture farming aboard a UNE marine research vessel.

Participation in the program is also a valuable opportunity for students to grow their professional networks, Madraki said, allowing students to build lasting friendships and connections that will extend beyond college and into their professional lives. 

Students who successfully complete the program and meet UNE’s admission requirements will be awarded a $2,000 scholarship toward their tuition if they choose to enroll at UNE as full-time undergraduates. 

Gwendolyn Mahon, Ph.D., M.Sc., UNE provost and senior vice president for Academic Affairs, said the NextWave program comes at a pivotal time — both for students, as they make the transition from high school to college, and as the world faces a host of growing social and economic challenges. 

“Experiences like NextWave provide students with the intellectual and practical foundation to thrive in higher education,” Mahon remarked. “By engaging in hands-on problem-solving and interdisciplinary collaboration, students not only strengthen their academic skills but also develop the confidence and adaptability necessary to lead in a rapidly shifting world. 

“UNE is proud to offer this opportunity to future scholars who are eager to challenge themselves and make an impact,” she said.

Applications for the NextWave Pre-College Experience are now open, with 40 spots available. Interested students and families can learn more about this year’s program theme, curriculum, and application details by visiting www.une.edu/pre-college-experience.