New "Cub College" helps pre-college students prepare for the ACT

By Eric Reikowski, media relations assistant

The Oakland University Department of Pre-College Programs is launching a new program designed to help middle and high school students in the Detroit Metropolitan area prepare for higher education.

Starting in February, the department’s Cub College program will offer a variety of Saturday on-campus classes to help students get ready for the ACT exam and acquire the skills for a successful college career. Classes in core academic areas, including study skills, literacy development and math skills will offered along with the ACT prep courses.

“The Cub College is an idea we have been exploring for a couple of years,” said Reginald McCloud, director of Pre-College Programs. “The program is designed to serve the entire Metro Detroit community, including the children of OU employees and alumni.”

Classes in test-taking and study skills will teach middle and high school students how to reduce stress and build confidence through proper planning and studying for exams. Literacy development courses will be offered to seventh- and eighth-grade students who wish to improve their reading skills and better comprehend, analyze and communicate ideas.

Additionally, students can enroll in math classes designed to help them develop problem-solving, critical-thinking and computational skills. Classes for middle school students will focus on general math skills, while classes for high school students will be devoted to beginning and advanced algebra.

Two six-week sessions will be offered for each course, with the first session taking place Feb. 27-April 3 and the second session April 10-May 15. The cost for each course is $150.

ACT preparation classes will cover the math and reading portions of the ACT, allowing students to practice testing with the official ACT Prep Guide. Two five-week sessions will be offered that cover high school reading and math, with the first session taking place Feb. 27-March 27 and the second session April 10-May 8. The cost for each course is $170.

Students can register for courses at oakland.edu/precollege (click on the “Cub College” link) and submit payment via online checking or savings account (ACH), debit or credit card.

Students must register at least 48 hours prior to the start of the course. All courses have a minimum required enrollment that must be reached prior to the first session to avoid cancellation.

For more information, contact the Department of Pre-College Programs at (248) 370-4455.