NEW ORLEANS - The Xavier University SuperScholar/EXCEL program returns to the campus this summer June 21- July 18, 2009. The four-week summer program, which prepares African American students for college and ultimately for graduate or professional school, is currently accepting applications.
"The impact of EXCEL was immeasurable in terms of helping me to become acclimated to the collegiate environment as well as assisting me in developing critical thinking and study skills," said Dr. Rockell Brown, a 1993 EXCEL alum and 1997 Xavier graduate.
"The Sister to Sister sessions really stand out in my mind because they exposed me to the cultural dynamic of my spirituality. The competitiveness and being around high achievers really motivated me and inspired me. I've maintained life-long relationships."
"EXCEL changed my life," said Michael Molina, a1992 EXCEL alum, 1997 Xavier graduate in English and former EXCEL group leader. "I was a good student, but I became a great student at EXCEL," he said. "The level of expectation, the challenge, the inspiration and guidance set me right for a solid senior year of high school and a great college career."
All participants will learn test-taking strategies that will Enhance their performance on standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT. Participants will take non-credit courses in Quantitative Reasoning (Math), Critical Thinking/Writing, Speech/Debate, Philosophy and African-American History.
Participants will be introduced to an array of research strategies and methods, including instruction in MLA (Modern Language Association) and American Psychological Association (APA) formatting and citation style. The top two research papers will be selected for publication. All participants will perform community service.
Students are required to live on campus and also participate in social and cultural events. Extracurricular highlights include the Essence Festival, a steamboat cruise and a talent/fashion show. The total cost of the program is $1950; merit scholarships up to $1550 are available.
To participate in Xavier's SuperScholar/EXCEL summer program, students should be high school seniors in the fall of 2009 or graduating seniors who have been admitted to Xavier for the fall. Applicants are encouraged to apply by March 15. Applications are available on the website at http://www.xula.edu/gradstar/SS-EXCEL.php
