Ever wondered what a gap year actually looks like, beyond the backpacking-through-Europe stereotype? We asked two accredited gap year consultants to break down what a gap year really is, who it's for, and how it can help students build motivation, confidence, and direction before (or during) college.

By now you've probably seen dozens of Penn State packing lists. They all cover the essentials: extra-long twin sheets, towels, shower shoes, laundry basket, fan, storage bins, power strips, and a small first aid kit. Those lists are great, so instead of repeating them, we're going to focus on the items you don't think you'll need—but will probably be glad you packed by October. These are the purchases that can make college life easier, reduce stress, and help you stay organized throughout the semester.

There is a lot to do when preparing to start college! The summer between high school and college is filled with excitement, nerves, and a never ending list of tasks to complete and things to buy. We understand this challenge and are here to help!

Learn how to use the Penn State Transfer Credit Tool, find courses that will transfer, and make smart decisions about taking classes at another college or university.

Whether you are a rising senior, a thoughtful junior, a sophomore inquiring, or a freshman planning ahead--the question of graduating early crosses the desk of many Penn State students. While some worry about graduating on time, others ponder if they should finish early and weigh all the options. I was in this position asking this question since freshman year of college, and went back and forth all four years. I ended up landing on graduating early in Fall 2023, but there were many pros and cons debated and tweaks I had to make in my educational journey to get there.

While most students traditionally take classes in Fall and Spring Semesters, Penn State offers summer course options to all students. The reasons for taking a summer course vary: catching up on credits, graduating early, preferring an asynchronous format…the reasons are different for every student.

Transitioning from high school to college brings varying degrees of ease for different students. While some may breeze through college exams with minimal effort, others struggle to adapt to the nuances of instruction, testing, and grading. Universally relatable among college students is the experience of failing an exam or falling short of anticipated grades, often occurring early in the semester as students navigate new class dynamics and subject matter.

As one semester concludes, the anticipation for the next one begins. This blog aims to guide students in effective preparation, helping them harness essential skills and resources for a successful academic journey. Alongside strategies for note-taking, course selection, and technology utilization, consider the invaluable support that academic tutoring can offer as you embark on the upcoming semester.

At one point, the differences between the ACT and SAT accentuated their rivalry.  But both have been redesigned recently so that now, they are more like comparable alternatives in friendly competition. Both are still the major college admissions tests and criteria for national merit scholarships; both still test what students learn in high school. But here the differences begin and with those differences, the likely reason why which test to take became--and still is—a question for so many students. 

You need to focus on these 3 sections of the syllabus.