What is JumpStart?

JumpStart is an opportunity for incoming UM freshmen to come to campus early. Participating students enroll in the Second Summer Session (June 24 to July 24). Students get a jumpstart in their University studies, meet faculty, and most importantly make new friends and adjust to college life before the rest of the freshman class arrives on campus for the Fall Semester. The program includes activities and experiences that encourage students to interact with one another while learning to manage the freedom and independence of college life.

JumpStart in the News: Freshmen Get 'JumpStart' on First Year of College

Click here to download a PDF version of our brochure.

Registration is now closed for 2009.

How will I benefit from participating in JumpStart?

During the term of the program you will:

• Earn 6 hours of credit toward your degree program (you select which courses you want to take when you meet with your advisor during Orientation), which can lighten your course load for the fall semester.
• Make the transition to ‘University student’ early, so you are more prepared for the fall semester
• Explore the campus, library, computer labs, the writing center, advising offices, recreation center, and local points of interest
• Adjust to residence hall life with other incoming freshmen
• Get a jump on learning to manage free time with study time
• Have the opportunity to ask questions, seek answers, and make connections
• And most importantly, make new friends and contacts with other freshmen, in your classes, and on campus - friendships helps new students adjust to the university easier and more quickly

Who is eligible for JumpStart?

The invitation to participate in JumpStart is extended to any student who has been admitted to the University as a freshman for the fall of 2009. This invitation is particularly attractive for those students whose class loads would normally be heavy in the first semester (i.e. students enrolling in the Sally McDonnell Barksdale (SMB) Honors College or Croft Institute, students majoring in Pharmacy, Engineering, Accounting, Liberal Arts, Pre-Health, or participating in athletics, the LuckyDay Program, ROTC, University Bands, and other demanding extracurricular activities). The program is especially helpful for students that might need a basic level course or prerequisite before beginning a multiple course sequence (i.e. someone that needs to take a developmental studies course, someone wanting to take College Algebra before beginning the Calculus sequence, etc.).

Should I still sign up for Freshman Orientation in June if I participate in JumpStart?

YES! All freshmen must attend an orientation session. JumpStart participants are encouraged to register for one of the first sessions in June in order to assure they get into the courses they want (in the summer and the fall). However, all JumpStart participants must complete their orientation session prior to June 24. The JumpStart program begins with the expectation that all participants attended and successfully completed an orientation session.

Orientation allows you to meet with your advisor and set your schedule for both the fall and for JumpStart. Without a schedule, you cannot participate in JumpStart. Orientation also introduces students to all aspects of the campus and allows both student and parents to familiarize themselves with the inner workings of the University. Additionally, students are afforded the opportunity to meet advisors and important campus staff. Questions about orientation should be directed to the Office of Orientation Programs.

What kinds of classes do I take during JumpStart?

You will sign up for your classes during your June orientation session after visiting with an academic advisor. Students choose courses from a list of acceptable courses offered during the second summer session (must meet course prerequisites). This list will become available when the summer schedule is posted at the end of March.

Besides academic, what other types of opportunities or experiences will I have?

Getting a jumpstart on your degree program is just one reason to participate in the program. It also aspires to introduce you to and to help you become more comfortable with the various aspects of college life. Thus, in cooperation with the Division of Student Affairs, we offer “JumpStart Hour” during weekday afternoons-included in the possible topics that will be addressed: building life skills, involvement in student organizations, avoiding substance abuse, time management, etc. The sessions won't always require you to sit in a room and listen. We'll also introduce you to campus services such as the reference center in the library, the Writing Center, and the Galtney Center for Academic Computing.

Is that it? Will there be more?

Of course! We haven't even covered the best part of the program, our JumpStart Mentors! JumpStart Mentors are specially selected and trained University of Mississippi students who live in the residence hall with JumpStart students, lead peer group meetings during JumpStart Hour, and offer general counsel and guidance about transitioning to university life. Making new friends is part of the university experience; why not get a JumpStart on it?

How much does it cost?

Application/Program Fee	$100.00
Housing	$365.00*
Meal Plan	$385.00 **
Tuition (6 hrs)	$1,276.50 ***
Total****	$2,126.50

* Based on double-occupancy for the term

** Meal plan includes 20 meals at the Johnson Commons and $250 in Flex Cash; unused meals expire at the end of the term; unused Flex Cash rolls over to the Fall Semester

***Non-resident fee is waived for out-of-state students admitted to JumpStart

**** Course fees and books are not included in the price above; students interested in obtaining financial aid should fill out an application for summer financial aid on the University of Mississippi Financial Aid Homepage.

What will I need to bring to the residence hall?

We encourage JumpStart students to pack light for the summer. Students cannot move in to their assigned room for the Fall before those residence halls open. Thus, all JumpStart students will have to move out of the residence hall at the end of their JumpStart term.

How do I apply?

Registration for JumpStart is done completely online. Once your application has been received, you will be mailed additional materials to complete the registration process. The size of the program is limited, so register early!

What if I have additional questions?

Questions about the program should be directed to Jason Wilkins at jewilkin@olemiss.edu