DOHA, QATAR – There were several familiar faces at this year’s Summer College Preview Program (SCPP) at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q). With many students back for their second year, and others following in their siblings’ footsteps, SCPP is becoming an annual tradition for some families.
SCPP is a summer program designed to better prepare secondary school students for college. Many students go on to attend CMU-Q, and also to recommend SCPP to their younger family members. Nearly 25% of the incoming freshman class has completed SCPP, while about 15% of the class has an older sibling who has attended CMU-Q.
Fatima Al-Khuzaei, who attends Al Arqam Academy, learned about the program through her sister, who is entering her third year at CMU-Q: “This is my second year taking part in the SCPP and once again it has been an incredible experience. I’m planning to apply to the computer science program next year, and by taking part in SCPP I was able to meet the professors and was introduced to the course material.”
Shouq Al-Khuzaei, who also attends Al Arqam Academy, applied to SCPP for the first time this year: “I learned about the SCPP through my cousin, Fatima, as she participated last year and she had such a great experience that she encouraged me to apply. I am so glad I was able to take part in the program. I am now more certain than ever that I want to apply to the information systems program next year.”
Damian Dourado, director of pre-college programs at CMU-Q, noted: “The Summer College Preview Program is an opportunity for secondary students to explore different college disciplines and experience the rigor of university-level academics. The program is excellent preparation for students applying to top universities, and students who complete the program are so happy they often recommend it to their younger siblings.”
Programs are held throughout the year for secondary students interested in studying biological sciences, business administration, computer science and information systems. Learn more.
