On Wednesday, July 29, 2009, the UPP concluded its first summer program for 18 current high school students and recent graduates.  While the main focus of the program was geared toward developing each student’s ability and confidence in communicating in English, there was a variety of activities to keep the students interested and enthusiastic throughout the length of the summer program. 

Dr. James Seasholtz and Mr. Mark Johnstone, UPP English language instructors, provided the English language instruction and guidance to the students throughout the program. In addition, Mr. Patrick Bauer, UPP Administrative Dean, conducted an in-house seminar on the process of applying to colleges and universities, which all of the students found very beneficial.  Mr. Charles Cejka, UPP physics instructor, held a “science day” for the students during which they were given the opportunity to conduct their own experiments in the UPP science lab under Mr. Cejka’s close supervision.  Additionally, Mr. Mohammed Nashbat, Director of the UPP Academic Resource Center, provided on-going instruction to the students throughout the course on how to conduct academic and other research online. At various times, speakers such as Dr. Ron Bulbulian from Alfaisal University conducted question and answer sessions with the students.

On the final day of the program in a short ceremony, Dr. John Aydelott, Director, and Mr. Waleed Al-Baty, Registrar, presented each student with a Certificate of Completion.  While very excited to receive their certificates, most of the students regretted the fact that the course had ended so soon.  In addition to the summer course instructors, several Alfaisal University dignitaries attended the presentation of the certificates.  Following the presentation of certificates, everyone present celebrated the summer program’s success by enjoying a pizza lunch together.