ISSUED: 8 February 2021
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University is offering its second annual Summer Start program July 5-August 3 and is opening the program to any new first-year college-bound student, even those who plan to attend a different institution in the fall. Summer Start is an immersive program designed to ease the transition to college for first-year students and give them the chance to earn credit.
“At Shepherd, we are committed to student success,” said Dr. Kelly Hart, vice president for enrollment management. “By participating in Summer Start, students gain an advantage as they begin their college career. Taking college courses, living in the residence halls, and experiencing cultural activities allow students to experience college life in a nurturing environment. As a result, they gain knowledge, confidence, and the tools to succeed.”
“Summer Start is a wonderful opportunity for students to ensure academic and social success in their first year of college and beyond,” added Shannon Holliday, coordinator for students in transition. “Whether it’s to get an early start on academics or to experience living on campus, Summer Start helps new college students prepare for what lies ahead.”
Isabella Forte, a psychology major from Hedgesville, participated in the first Summer Start last year and calls enrolling in the program the best decision she’s ever made.
“Summer Start helped me meet my first college friends right alongside my most useful campus resources,” said Forte. “The Summer Start professors and advisors were so extremely welcoming and helpful. This made me feel like I was many steps ahead of the game and allowed me to relax a little bit more when I got here for my fall semester.”
During Summer Start, students can earn three to seven credit hours in required coursework such as English, Economics, First-Year Experience, and Fitness for Life. The course offerings are all transferrable to other institutions. The program also offers cultural activities and on-campus housing at no cost for incoming Shepherd students and for an additional fee for other participants.
The costs are three credit hours $951 for in-state students and $2,256 for out-of-state students; four credits $1,268 in state and $3,008 out of state; six credits $1,902 in state and $4,512 out of state; and seven credits $2,219 in state and $5,264 out of state.
Incoming Shepherd students who complete the program are eligible for scholarships. Interested students and their families can contact Danielle Duvall, financial aid counselor, at dduvall@shepherd.edu for assistance with the financial aid process. Please make reference to the Summer Start program in the email subject line.
The Summer Start application deadline is May 1. For more information or to apply, visit the Summer Start webpage or call 304-876-5461.
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