FAQ
What is ASCEND?
ASCEND, A Scholarly Community Entering Notre Dame, is an online summer program that helps incoming Notre Dame students strengthen quantitative skills, develop college learning strategies, and build community before arriving on campus.
ASCEND is designed to help students prepare for the transition to Notre Dame without needing to leave home or give up research opportunities, summer jobs, family commitments, or other pursuits. The program is built around mathematical preparation, peer relationships, near-peer mentoring, and early connection to the Notre Dame community.
What will I learn in ASCEND?
Students in ASCEND review mathematical topics that are important for success in Notre Dame courses. Depending on the ASCEND pathway, this may include algebra, functions, trigonometry, rates of change, modeling, or other foundational ideas.
ASCEND is also about learning how to approach college-level work. Students practice problem-solving, collaboration, reflection, and help-seeking. Through conversations with coaches and peers, students also learn more about the Notre Dame experience, including study habits, office hours, campus resources, and ways to build community.
How is the program structured?
Each week, students complete online learning activities that introduce or review important mathematical ideas. These activities may include videos, practice problems, reflection activities, and applied problems connected to the weekly topic.
Students also meet in small groups with an ASCEND coach and other incoming Notre Dame students. These meetings are designed to help students discuss challenging problems, ask questions, explain their thinking, and learn from one another. ASCEND coaches are current Notre Dame students who help guide participants through both the mathematical content and the transition to college life.
Where does ASCEND meet? Do I need to travel?
ASCEND meets online. Participants and coaches meet using the tools and platforms provided by Notre Dame. There is no travel required, and students can complete the program from home, a library, or any quiet place with reliable internet access.
When does the program meet?
Meeting times may vary by cohort or program pathway. Your ASCEND coach will help schedule a meeting time that works for your small group. Please watch for emails from the ASCEND team and your coach with information about scheduling and live meetings.
Will I receive academic credit for ASCEND?
No. ASCEND does not carry academic credit and does not use formal grades. The program is designed to help students assess their current preparation, strengthen important skills, build confidence, and prepare for the transition to Notre Dame.
What are the technical requirements?
Students need internet access and a computer or tablet with a camera and microphone. Students should also plan to join live meetings from a quiet space where they can participate actively. See the Technology tab for more information.
When does ASCEND start and end?
ASCEND typically begins with onboarding and self-assessment in mid-June, with the main academic modules running from late June through late July. Students should expect to spend approximately five to ten hours per week on videos, practice problems, reflection, and small-group meetings.
Specific dates and meeting times may vary by cohort or program pathway. Students will receive more detailed scheduling information before the program begins.
How much does ASCEND cost?
ASCEND is free for participating students. Students only need access to a computer or tablet, a camera and microphone, and a reliable internet connection.
What should I do first?
Once you receive access to the ASCEND Canvas course, begin by reviewing the welcome materials, watching any introductory videos, and completing the first assigned activities. These early steps will help you get oriented before your first small-group meeting with your coach.
If you have specific questions, please contact the ASCEND program team or Dr. Brian Mulholland, Director of ASCEND.
Resources
The following resources may be helpful as you prepare for your transition to Notre Dame.
Math Resources
Student Life
Director of ASCEND Program
Brian Mulholland
Director of ASCEND
Associate Teaching Professor of Mathematics
bmulholland@nd.edu