RISING CATAMOUNTS
A Pre-College Guide for Parents and Students
A Shared Journey:
Why UVM Alumni are Encouraging Pre-College Experiences at UVM
Discover how UVM’s Pre-College programs help high schoolers thrive academically and personally, and helps establish a smooth transition to the next significant stage of their academic journey. From rigorous coursework to immersive campus life, students gain valuable skills and a sense of independence, all while connecting with the UVM community.
In this video, we sit down with a UVM alum and his daughter as they discuss her transformative experience in the Summer Academy program and the value of participating in both online and on campus pre-college programs at UVM. Learn how alumni are helping their children build on a proud Catamount tradition and preparing their high school students for the journey ahead.
Academic and Personal Growth:
What families are saying about Summer Academy at UVM.
Preparing for the transition from high school to college is a formidable step for both students and their families. Many parents are turning to the Summer Academy at UVM to help bridge this gap. This immersive program offers high school students a taste of college life, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed in their future endeavors.
Watch this video to learn more about why parents encourage UVM’s Summer Academy pre-college program for their hight school students.
Easing the transition
“We wanted to try it as kind of a test run for college.”
—Kerry Sullivan, parent
“As a way to transition from a pretty regimented home life to a little more independence as she starts thinking about colleges.”
—Jeff Novak, parent
Academic and personal growth
“She’s really excited to push herself academically and also get a little taste of what it’s like…”
—Jeff Novak, parent
“Problem solving and learning just how to navigate college, I think it’s a great experience for someone at that age.”
—James Holl
Saving money and earning credits
“She will obtain three credits from this, which just that alone I think is huge…and gain a better understanding of how to prepare from day one.”
—Diana Camaiani, parent
Experiencing campus and community life
“We thought Burlington was a beautiful location for her to learn in…the balance of academics with the fun component.”
—Kerry Sullivan, parent
UVM Alumni Association
Stay connected to your alma-mater through the UVM Alumni Association
There are more than 134,000 loyal UVM alumni worldwide, all connected to the University of Vermont in different ways. The Alumni Association builds and maintains engagement programs for alumni, parents, and students, to help them connect back to UVM in a meaningful way.
Join the Catamount College Connection
The UVM Alumni Association and Office of Admissions invite you to join us for Catamount College Connection. This is a virtual opportunity for high school students to learn more about the college admissions process.
The virtual program is scheduled to include the following:
- Keynote speaker, Dr. Andy Rosenfeld, presenting his new research on the Science of Happiness
- Pro tips for the admissions, financial aid and scholarship processes
- Q&A with panel of admissions experts.
Virtual Event Details: July 8, 2026 | 7:00 – 8:15 p.m. ET
Link for registration: Catamount College Connection Virtual Program
There is no cost to participate in this program, but registration is required.
View the Catamount Connection 90-minute recording from July 2025 which includes tips for the admissions, scholarship and financial aid process, guidance for writing the application essay, and a live Q&A with admissions experts from several selective institutions including Middlebury, Notre Dame, Boston University and UVM. Dr. Andrew Rosenfeld, Associate Professor and Child Psychiatrist at UVM’s Larner College of Medicine, will shared his research on the science of happiness as the keynote speaker.
The University of Vermont Earns Prestigious R1 Status
The University of Vermont (UVM) has achieved Carnegie R1 designation, placing it among the highest-ranking research institutions in the U.S. This milestone reflects decades of investment in groundbreaking research, faculty excellence, and academic innovation. With over $260M in annual research funding and notable advancements such as vaccine development, brain mapping, and climate studies, UVM continues to address global challenges. This R1 status strengthens UVM’s mission to drive innovation, attract top talent, and contribute to the well-being of Vermont and the world.
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