Frequently Asked Questions

Read what our students have to say about the program.


“I would recommend SSA to freshmen to get ahead in the summer before classes start. Passed the final exam? Great, that’s one less class you’ll need to sit in. Didn’t pass the final exam? Still great, because you’re more prepared than anyone else in the classroom in the fall who wasn’t in SSA. You’ll know what to expect and quickly relearn material. Without this program, I would have wasted my summer sitting on the couch watching TV. I’m so happy I was given this opportunity to keep my brain sharp and be prepared for college.”

– Emily C.

“SSA had allowed me to see what I want in life. The program allowed me to mature, allowed me to put myself first. I developed habits that are good for college and now I feel confident.”

– Oscar D.

“The program taught me what type of student I want to be in college and how to put it into action.”

– Lorenzo W.

“SSA helps with meeting people, improving social skills while doing so. It also helps build a math foundation for people who might go into a math heavy major.”

– Carlos G.

“Staying on campus is what allowed me to participate in the program, and it contributed to me being able to attend tutoring for the full duration. Being roommates with fellow participants allowed me to be able to study with others even after tutoring.”

– Ryan C.

“It has had a huge impact on me. I have met so many people who I am thankful to have in my life. Moreover, it helped me form habits I did not have in high school. Although I might not have done well in the final exam, I feel like I have learned so much about calculus and how enjoyable it can be. The program only reinforced my decision to be in STEM. Everything I have learned will most definitely help me succeed in the fall semester and hopefully in my future semesters. I have learned what helps me learn and what doesn't, and I feel more connected and familiar with the University of Houston than ever. Overall, this program taught me many life lessons I will never forget, and it was a very fun summer experience!”

– Maria N.

“SSA has left a massive impact on me because I learned that college is nothing like high school. I also have learned to put hours into studying to see good results and improvement.”

– Anthony A.

“I feel like SSA has prepared me for the fall in many crucial aspects. I feel mentally and emotionally prepared for the upcoming fall semester.”

– Aariyah M.

“SSA helped me to feel prepared for a “college degree experience” especially living on campus. I have newfound confidence going into college that I didn’t have before.”

– Zaria B.

“SSA helped me familiarize myself with the campos, make new friends and connections, and kept my brain sharp before the upcoming school year.”

– Anthony U.

“I would recommend SSA to incoming freshman because it gives them experiences that most freshman won’t have, such as getting familiar with the campus and gaining early exposure to math and chemistry content. Another reason I would recommend it is because it is a good way to make new friends, and you have people there who are willing to give you the tools to succeed.”

– Kaiyla S.