Starting college can be both exciting and unnerving with the expectations of taking responsibility for your learning, adjusting to the pace and rigor of college courses, as well as making connections and balancing academics with your social life. In the five-week Dragons Prep program, our first-year students take up to nine college credits, may live on campus, and are assigned peer mentors readily available to answer questions about academics at Drexel and school-life balance.

During Dragons Prep, you will also learn about academic resources on campus and how to navigate the University's teaching tool, Blackboard Learn, in addition to weekly sessions on outsmarting college, and attending social and cultural events. As a bonus, after the five-week program, Dragons Prep participants will receive customized services that can include mentoring and coaching as well as networking and social opportunities offered through the host of the program, the Center for Inclusive Education and Scholarship (CIES).

During Dragons Prep, classes and workshops will be scheduled Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. And, like the real college experiences you are about to begin — homework, studying, and projects will be required outside of the classroom. Please understand that for you to receive all the benefits of participating in the Dragons Prep program, you are required to attend all classes and workshops and participate in co-curricular activities. There is a competitive application process and space is limited, so don't wait to apply. Completed applications are due May 15.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible, students must be:

• Admitted for the 2024–2025 academic year to apply
• Confirmed for the 2024–2025 academic year to participate
• An incoming first-year student

To learn more about the Dragons Prep program, join us for an upcoming information session. Click the links below to register on Zoom. 

Monday, April 22 from 4 - 5 p.m.

Thursday, May 2 from 4 - 5 p.m.

Program Activities

While in Dragons Prep, you will be a part of a diverse learning community, centered on academic excellence, with opportunities for connection and learning from peer leaders who have gone through similar experiences. By fostering your natural talents and gifts, you will be empowered to navigate the University environment, utilize resources to support your academic goals, and get involved in Drexel's vibrant campus in a way that makes sense for you. Most importantly, the connections you make as a Dragons Prep student will last through your college years and beyond.

In addition to receiving a comprehensive orientation to campus and academic requirements, participants take part in:

• Three courses for credit to prepare for the rigor and pace of college-level academics
• A curriculum designed to cultivate college success, including time management, effective study skills in college, and ways to reduce stress
• Mentorship opportunities with Drexel faculty, professional staff, and upperclass peer leaders
• Workshops about navigating the college experience at Drexel with experts from various Drexel departments such as Counseling and Health, Student Conduct & Care, Financial Aid, and more
• Time for personal self-reflection to better understand past challenges while setting goals for future success
• Group social and cultural activities to help build friendships and embrace Philadelphia as a part of the broader community, such as visiting local landmarks and museums