FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 14, 2007
Contact: Anika Mitchell Perkins
(662) 329-7124

MUW program `bridges the gap’ between high school and first year in college

COLUMBUS, Miss. – When Shantrice Gaston attends classes this week at
Mississippi University for Women, she will enter them more confident than she did a few weeks ago.

Gaston was one of 15 students who recently completed the Summer Bridge
Institute, a five-week residential program that assists minority students in “bridging the gap” between high school and their freshman year in college.

The program consists of academic and life skills activities, according
to Phillip “Flapp” Cockrell, assistant director of student life for diversity education and programs. Full support is provided for books, housing, meals and tuition. Students also receive four college credit hours.

Cockrell said the program assists students in transitioning from high school to college.

“They will know how to study, who their professors are, the resources  available on campus and have formed a family within the group. They are
one step ahead.”

Gaston, who is from Greenwood, said attending the program was a great
opportunity and she looks forward to residing on campus.

“I’m not expecting any surprises,” the music education major said. “We learned about college life and what it is like to live on campus.”

Brandon Newsome of Jackson said he already feels at home.

“I like the small campus feel. I think I will like that better than being on a campus with 30,000 people.”

Newsome will major in chemistry and psychology.

The Summer Bridge Institute has been in place since 1991 and any
minority student who is a current high school graduate and has met the
admission requirements to the university may participate. Students who
plan to attend MUW are given priority.

Cockrell said they were only able to accept 15 students and he is in
the process of looking for additional funding sources to increase the
number of participants. Thirty students applied this year.

For more information about the program, please call Cockrell at (662)
329-7350.