Summer Passport Program Provides Early Introduction to Life at Holy Cross

The College of the Holy Cross offers academically promising students from diverse educations, personal and financial circumstances an introduction of what to expect in college via Summer Passport, its four-week residential program. The program provides an opportunity for selected students to get a head start by moving into campus early, taking an academic course for credit and building affinity amongst each other and the Holy Cross community.

Students offered participation in the program include, but are not restricted to, first-generation college students, those who come from under-resourced high schools, and students who are English language learners or for whom English is a second language.

"Our Passport students come to Holy Cross from a wide array of backgrounds and experiences. Their stories bring an important perspective to our community and will continue to shape who they are as students throughout their educational journey at Holy Cross," said Justine Fisher, director of academic services and learning resources.

Members of the class of 2026 converged on Mount St. James in late July and quickly became part of the College.

Over several weeks, students participated in a course designed and taught by Holy Cross faculty — this year’s courses included Putting the Science in Science Fiction and The Elements of Writing Argument; learned how to build a foundation for success; and took part in a variety of skill-building workshops. Weekends were filled with personal downtime and trips to attractions throughout the region, including Six Flags New England and the New England Aquarium.

"Our goal is to establish connection with resources and provide intentional mentorship from the very beginning of the college journey to make the transition to Holy Cross as smooth as possible," Fisher said.

The Passport program continues throughout the academic year via academic skill building workshops and mentoring and a spring retreat.