Testing and Professional Development Center and the Achievement Academy Outreach Program recently concluded their first Summer Youth Program. The program was organized for high school students of grades 10-12, from June 26 to July 21, to equip them with English language, Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and SAT skills, while they gain firsthand experience of university life.

"With an enrollment of over 30 students in our newly launched university preparation program for high school students, we are enthusiastic that this splendid beginning is predictive of greater success next summer and thereafter," said Dr. Tom Alibrandi, Director of the Achievement Academy. "We at AUS are acutely aware that many students show up for their undergraduate studies unprepared in English and in basic study skills. We feel strongly that our Summer Outreach Program not only helps participating students understand what is expected of them in university life, but also improves their English Language proficiency so they may succeed in their undergraduate studies," added Dr. Alibrandi.

The English language courses in the summer program are designed using the latest teaching techniques based on current research findings in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).

According to university administrators, there is a major problem with new students being unable to achieve the necessary TOEFL scores to gain admission into the university. Though students may meet the admission requirements in other aspects, a lack of English skills results in some students spending up to a year studying English in the institution's Bridge Program before they are permitted to begin studying for their chosen major. The objective of the Summer Youth Program is to prepare students for the necessary admission tests and to strengthen the skills needed to further their education.

Anas Nabie, a 17 year-old Iraqi student from Dawha School in Sharjah, expressed his views on the Outreach Program and explained how the program paved a successful path for his future application to AUS. "It changed my way of thinking about AUS and the programs it offers. My teachers were like my friends and they helped me with my speaking, writing and listening skills. I also learned the importance of teamwork and deadlines. I now have the confidence that I can pass the TOEFL exam and qualify to register and study at AUS," said Nabie.

In addition to the courses, students enrolled in the Summer Youth Program are given a student ID card which allows them to enjoy selected campus facilities including lodging if they choose.

Along with the Summer Youth Program, the Testing and Professional Development Center, catering to AUS and external students, offers various placement examinations and preparation courses including the TOEFL. It also offers engineering examinations and English language courses, led by highly qualified instructors helping students meet their learning goals.