Frequently Asked Questions - Gateway to Success

What is Gateway?

The Arcadia University Gateway to Success prepares students for collegiate-level intellectual inquiry, emphasizes academic achievement, and provides personal attention and resources to help students to succeed at achieving their goals.  Known on campus as “Gateway” for short, our program guides students toward greater intellectual, personal, and social growth in college. 

The Gateway to Success program began at Arcadia University, then named Beaver College, in August 1991 with a part -time director (Dr. Doreen Loury)  and two part-time professional counselors  (Bruce Keller and Angela McNeil). Gateway to Success was the umbrella to the College Academic Assistance Program and Act 101 program.  The mission of the program was and continues to be service to students who demonstrate academic promise even though their academic credentials do not reflect their full potential.

Students are recruited through the Enrollment Management office, with the Gateway to Success staff actively participating in the selection process. Admission consists of three pathways: Required attendance of the Summer Bridge program, recommended attendance of Summer Bridge, or beginning the Gateway Program in the Fall.

Throughout their tenure at Arcadia, admitted students receive individualized attention and additional resources. Both the Summer Bridge and semester components are structured to provide academic, social and personal support, designed to facilitate the academic success of full- and part-time Gateway students as they seek to attain their educational goals.

Can any student apply or join Gateway to Success?

Students that enter Gateway are selected by Arcadia Enrollment Management officials. If you want to be considered and you meet the criteria, your application will then be reviewed for consideration. See Admission to Gateway for more information.

Is Gateway to Success just a summer program? What makes it different from programs offered at other institutions?

There is a summer component of our program, which is either recommended or required for students. However, the summer portion is only a small part of Gateway to Success. You will be supported by Gateway well beyond that first summer, until the moment you graduate. In fact, we will even offer support to Gateway graduates after you complete your studies at Arcadia. While Gateway has the same structure and is the same concept as summer programs offered at other universities, Arcadia’s Gateway to Success persists for each student throughout your time at Arcadia. The bonds we create are built to last, with the mission of aiding each student to reach their full potential. 

How long does the summer program last? 

The Gateway to Success Summer Bridge lasts for six weeks.

See calendar for specific dates 

Can I have a summer job while attending the program? 

Having a summer job while committing to Gateway would be very challenging. We do not recommend working while you are here with us during the summer. Your job as a Gateway student is to be able to focus on classes, workload, and achievement. Gateway takes up a large amount of time during the week and weekends. You will be enrolled in summer classes that move faster that your classes will in the fall and spring, and your workload is larger. Therefore, we think it is difficult to concentrate and excel at both. You will have plenty of time to work during the fall and spring semesters, so don’t worry!

Are students able to bring a car during the Gateway summer session?

Similar to the University’s policy, that states “First-year resident students are not permitted to have a vehicle on campus for any period of time without written permission from the Department of Public Safety,”  students are not able to bring a car during Gateway summer program.  There is no need or usage for a car on campus. Students are on campus for the most part and when activities or events occur transportation will be provided. 

Are there events or activities on campus during the summer for Gateway students? 

Yes, activities are available for students each weekend and are hosted by Gateway staff.  The mandatory weekend is feeling with team building and solving problem fun activities.  The other weekend activities varies from trips to Philadelphia, amusement parks, bowling, movie nights and others.  Weekday activities are available as well.   

If I am offered a chance to attend the Gateway summer program but choose not to attend, am I able to still attend Arcadia in the fall?

If you are recommended to attend the Gateway Summer Bridge and you choose not to, yes, you can still attend Arcadia University, join us in the Fall and still receive the resources the program offers. However, if you are required to attend Summer Bridge and choose not to, you will not be able to attend Arcadia University in the fall.

How many students attend the Gateway program in a summer?

The amount varies annually, but we average about 25-30 students per summer.  

Are students able to request roommates or adjust living accommodations?

Students are assigned rooms in summer.  Each student completes a roommate questionnaire form and rooms are assigned by program staff prior to the summer session. 

What if I am homesick? Will I have the option to leave?

Multiple events are happening day and night for Gateway students, so there is little time to feel homesick in a schedule full of opportunities to interact with other students, have fun, try new things, adjust to your independence, and adapt to your college experience. Yet, there are some weekends when students have the option to either stay or go home. Gateway students are also allowed to have visitors, so if you do get homesick, your loved ones can visit!

If I became a member of the Gateway program, will I only have support during the summer?

No, once you become a Gateway student, you will always have Gateway! Support and resources will be here for you throughout your time at Arcadia.

More About Summer Bridge

Will I receive credits? How many, and will they transfer to the following semester? 

During your Gateway summer session, you will take a total of 3 courses.  An English course titled, Writing for the Academic Conversation worth 3 credits; a one credit, Learning Strategies course and a 4 credit elective course.  All credits transfer in and count toward graduation.  The elective course also fulfills one of the Arcadia Undergraduate Curriculum.  As a first year student in the fall, you will being with eight semester credits and the GPA earned during your Gateway summer session. Course information will be provided once you are selected and begin your process into Gateway. 

Will I have to take the placement test again if I took it during one of the Gateway meetings?

No, the only test that you will take in addition to the Math and English placement tests already taken is the Language placement test, which is offered during Summer Orientation.

If I attended the summer session will I be able to pick my classes and courses for the fall and/or spring semester?

Your first fall semester classes will be chosen for you, to help with the transition into your first semester. Once the spring semester arrives, you will be able to pick the classes of your choice! Remember, if you ever need help, advisers are here to assist!

What academic or personal support systems will I have on campus? Will advisors be available for students?

There are many resources on campus for students. The Learning Resource Network is open to helping students study, edit, produce, and or write papers, and peer tutors are available, too.  Of course your Gateway mentor will be available to you any time you need help. At Gateway we make sure our students know about sessions offered to learn about even more resources on campus.  Advisers are open to helping students as well. All you have to do is reach out to them via email or phone or by scheduling an office visit. 

Am I able to declare my major for the fall semester if I enter GW?

As a Gateway student, you are required to enter your first summer session and/or first fall semester as an undeclared student. You will declare a major during your first spring semester at Arcadia.  Each student is enrolled in the introductory course of their intended major in the fall and spring.

What is the cost of the summer program?

There is an estimated fee of $3,000, which includes housing, meals, activities, and transportation. The exact amount paid out-of-pocket varies from student to student because it is determined by each individual’s financial status according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Will I need additional pocket money? 

You may want to bring money just in case you would like to do some additional things, like order food, go to the movies, and buy some shirts from the bookstore. Yet, it is up to you to use your judgment. While you are here, all of your necessities are covered.