Jill Linz

Jill Linz, a physics instructor at Skidmore, teaches a course she developed called “Sound and Music.” It’s not only a favorite among pre-college students, it’s also a quintessential example of Skidmore’s interdisciplinary curriculum as it puts learners at the intersection of science and art. 

Linz joined Skidmore in 1992 after receiving her master’s degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Her primary interest is physics curriculum development and her research areas include physics as it relates to light and color, astronomy and music.

If you had to sum up the skills students gain by attending Pre-College, what would you say?

It would be confidence and maturity. They gain several concrete skills as well — time management, direct lessons from their coursework and more — but their growth in confidence and maturity is transformative.

When you say Pre-College is transformative, what do you mean?

Many Pre-College students come to campus shy and nervous. I can only imagine the feelings that come with this big step. But thanks to the structured curriculum and social programing, they’re walked through the experience in a proven and effective way. As they go about their five weeks, their interactions with college students and professors elevates their maturity, giving them the language and platform that a successful college experience is based on.

How would you describe students at the end of the program?

Students who attend Skidmore’s Pre-College program leave excited and empowered to face their college futures. It’s a moment where all possibilities open for them.