Passaic Today

Nearly 250 high school students attended Montclair State University’s Pre-College Summer program in July, exploring fields such as film and TV production, pre-med, sports communications, Wall Street investing, animation, art, and architecture. The program aimed to give students a taste of college life and access to New York City's corporate and cultural resources.

Classes were taught by Montclair faculty and included field trips to locations like Google headquarters and the musical Hamilton. Oliver Majnik, a rising senior at Colonial High School interested in Pre-Law, said: “Montclair is one of my top college choices... I love the classes; the professors are great and they’re easy to talk to. All the activities we’ve done show me what college will be like.”

The program offers one-week courses that challenge students academically while allowing them to experience college life. Located just 12 miles from NYC, Montclair leverages its proximity to provide unique learning opportunities through its Summertime in the Big Apple program.

Students could choose from various courses such as Acting, Animation, Business Entrepreneurship, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Film and Television Production, Model United Nations, Pre-Medical Professions, Social Media, Sports Communication, and Wall Street. These courses help students explore potential academic majors and career paths.

Bradley Litchfield, co-managing director for Pre-College Summer said: “Not only are students learning what it’s like to take a college-level program but they’re also learning to be independent and autonomous... These experiences will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”

Throughout the school year, Montclair also offers Dual Enrollment Programs for high school students across New Jersey. These programs allow students to earn college credits while fulfilling high school requirements at reduced rates.

Prospective students or parents interested in more information about Pre-College Summer can learn how to apply or plan a visit to Montclair State University.