Summer Session

JumpStart Program: July 19 - August 25

Academic Success

New students who are accepted through the Admissions Review Committee are required to attend this 5-week summer program prior to their first semester. These students will have intense academic preparation for college and participate in classes, workshops, and intentional outings designed to introduce them to academic expectations. Classes in English and Quantitative Reasoning align with the General Studies learning outcomes. Students receive supplemental instruction as well as classroom instruction. With their peers in the New Signers track of JumpStart, students also participate in a Personal Discovery program daily, for team-building, decision-making, conflict resolution, and physical challenge activities. Upon completion of this summer program, students will continue receiving academic support through the PLUS program.

New Signers

Offered with the Academic Success track, this program is for students primarily from mainstreamed high schools who are new to American Sign Language (ASL) and to learning in a visual environment. Students receive intensive instruction in ASL as well as deaf awareness, deaf culture, and Gallaudet history and traditions. New Signers participate with peers in the Academic Success track in Personal Discovery, as well as in intentional outings and field trips. Upon completion of this summer program, students will continue receiving academic support through the PLUS program. Click here to see a short clip made by New Signers.

Family Orientation Program (FOP): July 19 - 24

The Family Orientation Program is designed to help families learn about Gallaudet and ease the transition from family to university life. Two Family Orientation Program Sessions are offered, one in July during JumpStart Program and one in August during New Student Orientation (NSO). During FOP, families learn about campus departments and services and have opportunities to ask questions. Some of the departments highlighted include the Department of Public Safety, Housing, and Academic Advising. Family members arriving during the New Signers Program receive additional information on how students learn American Sign Language. Click here to see the schedule of last summer's FOP.

Fall & Spring Session

Performance Learning for Undergraduate Success (PLUS):

The PLUS program provides students with access to academic services and promotes student success and retention. First year students identified through the admissions process or placement testing participate in PLUS. Students receive tutoring for academics or American Sign Language skills. They are required to attend university workshops, regular study tables, individual tutoring, PLUS meetings, and to have good standing in their classes.