Receive intentional support your first year of college.
Our Bulldog Scholars Program provides first-year students with intentional, supportive programming that can help you discover avenues for academic improvement and success.
Additionally, Bulldog Scholars receive special financial benefits. All Bulldog Scholars receive a $2,000 scholarship every academic year ($8,000 over four years). Costs of our Summer Experience are covered by the program (meals, early move-in, activities).
August 6-12, 2025
Summer Experience
Academic preparation in English and Math
Advising workshops
Connections to faculty and campus partners
Community building
Access to peer mentors
August - December
Fall Semester
INDV 110: Skills for Academic Success
ENG 190: Writing as Critical Thinking (with free supplemental instruction) OR Math course at placement level (with free supplemental instruction)
Regular advising and coaching sessions from Center for Academic Excellence staff
Weekly meetings with your peer mentor
January - May
Spring Semester
INDV 150: Book & Discussion – Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth
ENG 190: Writing as Critical Thinking (with free supplemental instruction) OR Math course at placement level (with free supplemental instruction)
Regular advising and coaching sessions from Center for Academic Excellence staff
Weekly meetings with your peer mentor
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Contact
Ashleigh Harding Director of Student Success
Center for Academic Excellence aharding@truman.edu
(660) 785-7403
Other Resources
As you prepare to become a Bulldog, below is a list of available resources, offices, and departments you can connect with prior to stepping on campus.
Center for Academic Excellence
The team at the CAE oversees the Bulldog Scholars Program and houses Truman’s first-year academic advisors. These advisors will help guide you through your first academic year and the Summer Experience.
All first-year students are required to live on campus. Connect with Admissions or Residence Life about the housing application and connecting with a roommate.
If you plan to use student loans or grants to fund your education, you will want to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can always connect with the Office of Financial Aid to discuss your financial aid package.
There are many other services available on Truman’s campus that can assist students as they make the college transition in their first year. Click the link to explore these offices and services.
