Our Summer Empowerment Academy program is designed to prepare incoming students who have been admitted with conditions for their transition into college life – both socially and academically. This program provides a unique opportunity to get a head start on your academic journey, build essential skills, and form lasting connections. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or an adult learner, our program offers a supportive and engaging environment to prepare you for success as you pursue your academic goals.
Students participating in the Summer Empowerment Academy will arrive early to campus and participate in our program in the two weeks leading up to the start of our fall semester. Students planning to live on campus will have the opportunity to move into their Fall 2025 assigned residence hall room early to be able to participate. Students who live locally are also invited to participate in the program but will not be able to stay on campus during the Academy.
This program will end just as our annual Week of Welcome event begins.
Brush up on your skills in key subjects like math and writing through interactive workshops.
Learn essential strategies for time management, study skills, note taking, and navigating college resources.
Connect with fellow students, faculty, and staff through team-building activities and social events.
Experience campus at a slower pace before all other students arrive for the fall semester.
- Boost Your Confidence – Gain the knowledge and skills you need to start your college journey with confidence.
- Build Lasting Connections – Form friendships and networks that will support you throughout your college experience.
- Get Ahead – Start your first semester with a solid foundation and clear understanding of what to expect.
- Earn Elective College Credit – Students who successfully complete the University College Summer Empowerment Academy will earn two credit hours of elective college credit toward their academic program.
We believe in your potential and are committed to helping you succeed. The University College Empowerment Academy is more than just a program—it’s your introduction to a community dedicated to your growth and success. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Marshall family!
- Eligible students are those who have been admitted with conditions to University College at Marshall University as incoming first-year students for Fall 2025.
- Eligible students have registered for Marshall’s New Student Orientation in Summer 2025.
- Eligible students must have submitted a 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov and listed Marshall University as a recipient of the results.
- Eligible students must submit an application to be considered for participation.
A limited number of seats are available.
Breakfast | 7:30 a.m. | Harless Dining Hall
Session 1 | 9 – 10 a.m. | UNI 100 – Campus Resources, Lead Center, Student Organizations, Advocating for Yourself, Boundaries
Session 2 | 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. | Imposter Syndrome: Yes, You Belong Here
Lunch | 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Harless Dining Hall
Session 3 | 12:30 – 2 p.m. | Team Building with Rick Gage, Breaking the Ice
Session 4 | 2:15 – 3:15 p.m. | UNI 284 – Growth vs. Fixed Mindset, 10,000 Hour Rule
Session 5 | 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. | UNI 284 – Short and Long-Term Memory, Cognitive Schemas
Dinner / Free Time | 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Harless Dining Hall
Evening Activity | 7:30 p.m. | Movie Night with Snacks
Robyn Stafford, Student Support Specialist and Academy Coordinator | messeng1@marshall.edu, 304-696-5816
Chris Atkins, Director of University College | atkins41@marshall.edu, 304-696-3252
Sherri Stepp, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies | goodall@marshall.edu, 304-696-7038