Ambitious High School Students Flock to Georgetown’s Pre-College Summer Program (GPS) at QF

QF partner Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) recently concluded another successful edition of their Georgetown Pre-College Summer (GPS) Program, a unique preparatory initiative aimed at empowering high school students in Qatar and equipping them with essential skills for university-level success.

This year’s program provided 34 students a transformative learning experience with mentorship by current students and alumni of GU-Q. Through three immersive weeks of full-time classes taught in English, participants gained valuable insights and practical experience to excel in their academic pursuits.

"GPS empowers students to become confident, well-rounded individuals ready to tackle the challenges of university life," said Jibin Koshy, Educational Enrichment Manager at GU-Q. "By providing an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment, we enable them to expand their horizons, experience university level curriculum, build critical skills, and develop lifelong connections."

One of the many GU-Q students who volunteer as mentors, Fatima Yunusa said the program has also been personally rewarding for her. “The participating students remind me of my own experience with high-school and college applications. I remember feeling lost but slowly finding my way around the process with the support of counselors, teachers, and university students. Today, I am glad that I get to be part of that support system for high school students at GPS.”

The program’s educational experience includes classes in world geography, critical reading, writing, international relations, and global politics, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the world.

“This program has been the most useful use of my summer time,” said participating high schooler Mahi Sharma. “I have learned more about international relations and world politics in the last three weeks than my entire high school career.”

“GPS has been incredibly interesting and enriching,” said participant Shoug Khozestani. “This has been a good peek into what university will be like.”

Prospective students were also introduced to the university’s four majors: International History, International Economics, International Politics, and Culture and Politics, and the many benefits of studying in the unique multiversity environment at Qatar Foundation.

In addition to classes, GPS participants received specialized SAT and ACT preparation to enhance their American college entrance exam scores. GPS is one of several meaningful and engaging programs at GU-Q that are designed to promote academic and personal growth for students in Qatar and abroad.