Bulldog Scholars Program

A Day in the Life

Wondering what being a Bulldog Scholar is really like? Your journey begins with the Summer Experience—a time to meet new friends, connect with mentors, and dive into life at Truman through engaging workshops, campus adventures, and community-building activities. Once the fall semester begins, that same sense of connection and support continues through weekly peer mentor meetings, study sessions, and one-on-one guidance designed to help you thrive all year long.

A Day in the Life

Summer Experience

Success Sessions

These interactive workshops help you learn and apply the habits of a successful college student through hands-on activities that turn strategies—like time management and organization—into action.

Campus Connections

Campus Connections introduces you to the people and places that make Truman feel like home. You’ll meet representatives from key campus resources—like the Student Health Center, Counseling Center, Student Recreation Center, Office for Community Enrichment, and Career Center—and learn how each can support your success and well-being.

Community Building & Social Events

Bulldog Scholars isn’t just about academics—it’s about connection. Socials events are your chance to build friendships, unwind, and get to know the peer mentors and fellow students who will support you throughout the year.

College Writing & Math Workshops

These workshops are designed to get your academic gears turning and help you feel confident as you transition into college-level coursework. Through interactive sessions, you’ll brush up on key writing and math skills while learning strategies for success in each area.

Day on the Town

Day on the Town is designed to help you connect—with your peers, your new campus, and the Kirksville community. This full day of activities gives you the chance to get to know other students who’ve also moved in early, explore local favorites around town, and experience what makes Kirksville such a welcoming college community.

Typical Summer Experience Schedule

8:00 am — Breakfast (optional)
9:00 am — Success Session
10:00 am — Math Workshop
11:45 am — Lunch
1:00 pm — College Writing Workshop
3:00 pm — Campus Connections
5:00 pm — Dinner
6:30 pm — Community Building & Social Events

* Student Athletes in Bulldog Scholars who have early practice receive a revised schedule that fits with their athletics schedule. We work alongside your coaches to ensure you have a schedule that works for you.

Day in the Life

During the Academic Year

Fall Semester

Scholars take INDV 110: "Skills for Academic Success" and either ENG 190: "Writing as Critical Thinking" or a math course at their placement level. Throughout the semester, students connect weekly with their peer mentor and attend weekly study sessions. Mentors also host monthly events for scholars.

Spring Semester

Scholars take "INDV 150: Book & Discussion" and either ENG 190: Writing as Critical Thinking or a math course at their placement level. Throughout the semester, students continue meeting weekly with their peer mentor, participate in study sessions, and attend monthly mentor-led events that promote growth, connection, and resilience.

"[This program] gave me very useful information about how college works. It also made the transition from my home to college a lot smoother. They also helped if I had any questions about anything related to college."
Colin C.

2023-24 Cohort