Pre-College Programs

Carroll is invested in the success of both today’s and tomorrow’s Pioneers. Helping our current students realize their true potential is at the heart of everything we do. We’re equally committed to younger students interested in learning more about college and providing them with the tools they need to prepare for the next step in their education.

55% young adults with a mentor are 55% more likely to enroll in college

Experience what its like to attend college courses and live on a campus

130% young adults with mentors are 130% more likely to hold leadership positions

Most of Carroll's Pre-College programs are free or low cost

AN OPPORTUNITY FOR YOU

Making decisions about your future, especially when it comes to college, isn’t always easy. It can be even more challenging for first-generation students. Carroll offers many innovative programs that introduce high school students of all backgrounds to the college experience, from academics to student life to everything in between. We work with you and your family to provide the support and information you need to help you reach your higher education goals.

Academic Year Programming

Project Pioneer

Project Pioneer is a pre-college enrichment program for high school students. It’s conveniently offered on Saturdays throughout the academic year and includes many participants who are the first generation in their families to attend college. Project Pioneer offers valuable information and preparation through exposure to a variety of cultural activities, college campuses and academic programs.

Youth to Discover

The Youth to Discover mentor program connects Carroll University students with young people in the Waukesha community. The program’s goal is to help youth become productive members of the community in a positive way. Working together, participants and their mentors will develop critical-thinking and problem-solving techniques, learn about leadership and grow their communication skills. With fun events planned throughout the year, program participants have the opportunity to build a strong bond with one another through unique experiences.

Summer Programming

Pioneer Bridge

Pioneer Bridge is a week-long orientation program that supports first generation Carroll students as they transition from high school to college. Participants move into their residence hall or begin commuting to campus the week before classes start. It’s a way to get to know each other and get comfortable on campus by participating in workshops, classes and social activities while developing the “college life” skills essential to their success. After completing the program, participants become part of the Office of Cultural Diversity’s mentorship program and continue to receive support during their time at Carroll. Apply Now!

Horizontes en Carroll

Horizontes en Carroll is a residential, week-long summer program. It gives high school students an opportunity to explore university life and gain academic, social and life skills that will help them succeed in a college setting. Program participants spend the week experiencing mock classes, working with current Carroll students and taking college preparatory workshops all while staying overnight in our residence halls and enjoying fun activities each evening. Apply Now!

STEM for Girls/STEM para Chicas

STEM for Girls/STEM para Chicas is a five-day camp designed to educate middle and high school aged girls about opportunities in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields. During the program, campers will experience a variety of topics through interactive demonstrations and activities from a coding workshop, to discovering art in nature, to a tour of local workplaces and more. Team building, career panels, mock interviews and more round out the programming.

School Partnership Programs

PASOS

The United Community Center and Carroll University have partnered to offer Bruce Guadalupe Middle School students a unique way to learn about and prepare for health science professions through Preparing and Advancing Students for Opportunities in Science (PASOS). Through workshops, hands-on experiences at Carroll’s and UCC’s campus, and personal attention from current college students and professors, BGCS students will find out what it takes to become a health science professional. Academic support and health science career exploration are provided throughout high school.

"I may know what I want to do, but Project Pioneer helps me learn how to do it."
— Deja Smith, Project Pioneer participant

For More Information

Maria Ramirez, Director of Pre-College Programs
Email: mramirez@carrollu.edu | Phone: 262.650.4826

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