Dear future Gateway student:

Thanks for your interest in the Gateway Program and for taking the time to check out what we have to offer. This program was designed to help you make the transition from high school to college. In college you will be expected to become an independent learner and take responsibility for your own learning. That's why you will need to learn new strategies for dealing with the demands of college courses. Here are the three areas you will focus on:

• In Gateway English classes you'll learn new ways of writing, specifically how to come up with ideas, how to organize your ideas and then write longer essays that clearly communicate what you want to say. You will learn in a small and non-threatening class environment with lots of individual feedback from your instructor. (You can always get more help at the Writing Center).
• Your math classes will help you prepare for the science or business courses you might take after completing the Gateway Program. (There is also more help available at the Math Lab).
• Another class, College Reading and Study Skills, will help you develop good study habits and reading skills. You'll learn about time management and organizing your projects.

We feel that we want to challenge you, but we also want to build in a lot of support so you can succeed without being overwhelmed. Here are some support features:

• I will serve as your mentor; that means that you can always talk to me about any concerns and all aspects of college life.
• I will be your academic advisor; that means I'll assist you when you have questions about your courses. At the end of Gateway, I will put you in touch with an advisor in your future major.

I hope this summary gives you a better idea about what to expect when you enter the Gateway Program. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

I look forward to hearing from you and hope to see you at Otterbein.