The Virtual University Initiative is part of the ETL Education Foundation College Readiness Program. It is an academic enhancement program for high school students. ​



College Ready? ...We can help





College readiness typically refers to a collection of skills, knowledge, behaviors, and competencies a high school graduate should possess upon entering and/or preparing for the freshman year of college. College readiness criteria include knowledge of the college process, possession of specific cognitive strategies, appropriate writing and research skills, competence in self-assessment skills, and while in high school, familiarity with the completion and use of standardized college admissions tests (e.g. SAT/ACT).


The ETL Education Foundation Virtual University Initiative (VUI) addresses all aspects of college readiness. The VUI seeks to expose students to college-like experiences thereby enhancing readiness. Students have the opportunity to interface with technology, enhance academic skills, complete college-level mini courses, explore career options, discover learning styles and preferences, as well as apply new learning to community problem solving. By leveraging the power of the internet, the VUI provides enhanced opportunities for students to practice and garner critical college readiness skills


Please navigate through our menu of Initiative Centers and Programs and sign up for the activities that best suit your needs!





College Readiness Indicators





COLLEGE KNOWLEDGE -- Student possesses an awareness of the college process, including admissions, curriculum, financial aid, etc.


COGNITIVE STRATEGIES -- Student has amply practiced and is adept in: problem solving, analysis, reasoning, openness, inquisitiveness, interpretation, and precision.


WRITING AND RESEARCH -- In one semester, college students are often expected to produce multiple expository, descriptive, and or persuasive writing products that are well supported and researched. Oftentimes, high school students have not had sufficient opportunity to hone their writing and research skills sufficient to the level required for college success.


SELF-MONITORING -- Self-monitoring refers to students' ability to assess their own level of understanding and mastery of a subject. Students proficient in self-monitoring are able to select or change learning strategies when faced with difficulties, transfer or modify successful strategies, and identify learning challenges early.


STUDY SKILLS -- Certainly study skills go well beyond simply completing readings and assignments. Important study skills include time management, instructor communication, learning preference alignments, and other factors.


TEST SCORES -- Though many colleges are deemphasizing standardized test scores, they still play a role in the admissions process and remain an indicator of college readiness. Familiarity with standardized tests and how they are used is an important aspect of college readiness.



Customize how the Virtual University Initiative can meet your needs. Explore our website and sign up for available programs. Visit this site frequently as programs are available on varying schedules and content is regularly added to the Centers.