Summer Stampede is designed to help students achieve early success at USF. This special population of first-year students is conditionally admitted to the University based on high school academic performance. During the Summer B term, these students must successfully complete two courses from the Foundations of Knowledge and Learning (FKL) curriculum which is required for all degree programs at USF. These courses are pre-selected by the academic advisor and enrollment is limited to Summer Stampede students.
For students who have demonstrated the potential for success, Summer Stampede offers the opportunity to focus on their academics during the Summer B term. In the fall, these students are strongly encouraged to take the University Experience course (SLS 1101), which will provide them with an introduction to USF resources and many academic and life skills that will contribute to their success as a student. Although this group of students will interact with others from Freshman Summer Institute (FSI) and Student Support Services (SSS), each program has its own eligibility criteria, requirements and activities that are independent from the others.
The summer will be an exciting time for our Stampede students. Students can get to know others by attending free social events and living in either the Juniper-Poplar residence hall or the Magnolia Apartments on campus. Social activities will sponsored by departments such as the Center for Student Involvement, New Student Connections, Fraternity and Sorority Life, and the Office of Multicultural Affairs. Events will range from Movies on the Lawn and ice cream socials to street festivals and karaoke contests. Aside from these fun extracurricular activities, students will have the opportunity to participate in workshops designed to enhance their academic success. These workshops will cover a range of topics, such as study strategies, time management, test taking, communicating with faculty, understanding a syllabus, procrastination, and anxiety. In addition, there will be a signature event with tips for success from student, faculty, and administrative perspectives.
There are a few things Summer Stampede students should be aware of. These students are given conditional acceptance to the University based on their academic performance, so they should put schoolwork first before any extracurricular activities. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA in two courses during the Summer B term or their admission to the University will be cancelled. Tutoring and Learning Services has a special team of Academic Success Guides to help students successfully complete their coursework. Summer Stampede students should understand that it is their responsibility to take charge of their success. We pledge to provide challenge and support as they pursue their academic and personal goals at USF. Go Bulls!
This post provided by Amanda Cutchens, M.Ed. – Special Assistant, First Year Academic Programs.