ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio University's summer Precollege Orientation Program offers new undergraduate students a two-day primer on life as a Bobcat and provides a jolt to the local economy. During the two-day sessions, students and their parents receive a whirlwind, comprehensive overview of college life and surrounding attractions. Additionally, area merchants introduce themselves to thousands of potential future customers.

This summer, more than 3,700 new college students and their parents participated in 15 Precollege sessions from July 23 until August 11. Sessions for transfer students were held July 6 and July 20.

"The transition from high school to college can be a challenging one for both parents and students," said Director of Orientation Programs Richard Linn, who coordinates Precollege events. "The Precollege program is designed to aid in that transition by providing those parents and students with information that will answer their questions and help them feel more comfortable."

During Precollege, students learn about the challenges of college life, both inside and outside the classroom.

"Precollege allows new students to feel confident in their preparation for attending classes in the fall," Dean of Students Terry Hogan said. "In addition to addressing practical concerns such as registering for classes, it focuses on the emotional and social adjustments that must be made and sets the stage for adjustment and ultimate success in college."

The bustle of Precollege activity is a welcome sound to Athens businesses.

"Precollege is a boon for the area economy, especially during this slow time of year," said Larry Payne, president of the General Division of the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce. "When you bring in 10,000 people (incoming students and family members), it's important to local businesses. In addition to the initial impact, many businesses are recruiting potential customers, both students and parents, for the next four years."

Sally Dunker, head of the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, said, "As always, the 508 hotel rooms in Athens County are very filled, as are Bed & Breakfasts and camping sites, during Precollege."

Athens businesses participate in Precollege in several ways. For example, local merchants furnish "mock dorm rooms" in Tiffin Hall with goods and suggestions for services from their businesses that can help make the students more comfortable. From bedspreads to picture frames to snack baskets, the businesses have an opportunity to promote their wares.

"The mock dorm rooms give us good exposure," said Jack Bigger, local J.C. Penney Co. store manager. "When approximately 4,000 students and their parents go through, that's quite a flow of traffic. You can't buy that kind of exposure. Our hope is that we plant the seed of our name while they're here for Precollege and, when they return to town, they'll remember that there's a mall in town where they can do their shopping."

Also, the Chamber and Convention and Visitors Bureau sponsor an information tent for new students and parents. "It's a great opportunity to welcome new students and their parents to the area," Dunker said. "We want them to feel a part of the community and to make sure they're aware of the many available opportunities in the area."