Program Dates: June 26-August 11, 2023
Application Opens: May 18
Application Deadline: June 13
Welcome to ASCEND
ASCEND (Achieving Success through Community, Engagement, and Networking at Duke) is a remote summer pre-orientation program that prepares incoming first-year students for success in Duke’s gateway STEM classes. Over seven-weeks, students complete an on online curriculum proven to improve their course peformance and persistence.
ASCEND participants will also have access to special funding for STEM tutoring and be invited to events throughout the fall and spring semesters of their first year.


ASCEND Coaches
ASCEND coaches are the heart of the program. These upperclassmen mentor the participants and guide them through the program. Each coach has a wealth of knowledge they are eager to share with incoming students to help them acclimate to Duke.
ASCEND Community
ASCEND is a group learning experience that connects incoming students to their classmates, older Duke students, and professors. Each participants joins a small team that learns together and collaborates on challenge questions to win Duke-themed badges. Throughout the summer, they’ll also connect with faculty in different STEM fields to learn how to excel inside and outside the classroom.
Program participants, coaches, and affiliated faculty with be invited to the Celebration Dinner at the beginning of September.
