The University of St. Thomas Mendenhall Achievement Center is offering incoming UST freshmen the opportunity to get an early start on their college education through the Mendenhall Summer Institute. The five-week program, beginning Monday, July 7, and ending Friday, August 8, allows students to prepare for the rigors of college-level studies while earning six UST credit hours in math and English for a total fee of $500. Participants who successfully complete the program have an opportunity to receive an annual Mendenhall grants of $2,000.

Twenty-five students will be chosen for the program on the basis of proven academic abilities and involvement with co-curricular activities. Any student who is applying to UST can request admission to the program. Ideal candidates must meet UST admission criteria, which includes a combined SAT score of 1020 and a high school GPA of 2.5, must demonstrate serious intent to earn a college degree and must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

In addition to earning college credit, students will have opportunities to participate in social activities, receive individualized tutoring and improve their information literacy skills through library and computer instruction. The credits will count toward hours completed for a degree, but not toward the University’s core curriculum requirements. Participants meet Monday through Thursday.