Jackson State University is hosting a two-day assessment and advisement program for newly admitted freshmen, who represent the largest incoming class in the history of the institution. The program, which runs through Thursday, July 16, gives neophytes an opportunity to complete the required College Basic Academic Subjects Examination with Essay (CBASE). As well, students will be able to speak with advisers and representatives from areas such as financial aid, business and residential life.
Dr. James C. Renick, provost and senior vice president of academic and student affairs, welcomed new students and their parents and declared that JSU would help color their future. He told students that with technology being so important “this class like previous ones will receive iPads to enhance your studies.”
Renick also thanked parents and guardians for their support because, he said, “It takes a village to prepare these young men and women for the future.” Furthermore, he urged students to get their passports and voter registration cards. “You’re a citizen of your own community, and you’re a citizen of this world. With a Jackson State education, you can go anywhere. It’s not hyperbole because we recently welcomed back 80 students who traveled all over the world this summer. They’ve been to places such as China, South America and Paris.” He urged the incoming class to be just as bold, courageous and curious.
The First-Year Experience Program is designed to ease the transition to university life. It includes the required University Success course and areas of focus such as critical thinking, technology use and community service. Additional components of the program:
- New Student Orientation
- Comprehensive Academic Support Services
- Student Retention Service
- Transition/Transfer Program
- Summer Intervention/Summer Bridge Program
- Center for Undergraduate Research
- First-Year Seminars
One parent, Tomeka Minor (Class of 1997), says she’s excited about her daughter, Alandria Tucker, attending Jackson State University. “I was in the auditorium singing ‘Jackson Fair’ to celebrate my alma mater,” she said. Meanwhile, daughter Alandria says she will major in psychology and is “looking forward to meeting new people and experiencing the melting pot and various cultures.”
Other activities slated for the first-year experience program included parent orientation, a block party and campus tours.