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Thurgood Marshall College Fund

SOAR HBCU Scholars Program

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) HBCU Scholars Program is a one-week residential summer program for high-achieving current high school juniors. This program will be held on the campuses of Alabama A&M University and Drake State Community and Technical College.

The program aims to serve students by providing a unique opportunity to learn about HBCU and HBCC institutions, college admissions, financial aid, and scholarship resources. The program also allows students to explore academic majors and career pathways. This program is free to all participants.

  • Eligibility: Current high school juniors (Class of 2025). Eligible students must participate in the program during the summer before their senior year.
  • Program Dates: July 7 – 12, 2024
  • To apply – Applicants must provide the following:
    • Completed Application
    • Academic Documents:
      • Official high school transcript
      • ACT/SAT scores (if taken)
    • One Letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or college advisor
    • One short essay (250 words max) on the following question:
      • What is motivating you to pursue education at a collegiate level?

Click here to apply

The deadline to apply is April 15, 2024.


What activities will students be involved in during the program?

During the week-long program, 100 participants will reside in one of the residence halls at AAMU.  Students will participate in seminars, develop team presentations, network with business professionals and HBCU alumni, interact with college students, and participate in workshops on college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, HBCUs, Historically Black Community Colleges (HBCCs), and more.

Is this program only for students interested in attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)?

No, the program is open to all students interested in various colleges and universities, including HBCUs, HBCCs, community colleges, trade schools, etc. 

What is the cost of the program?

The cost of the program is FREE to all participants.  The program will cover most expenses associated with the program, including housing, meals, materials, supplies, and activities.   Travel expenses are not covered by the program.

Can students participate virtually?

Students are unable to participate virtually since it is a residential program.

Who will supervise the students?

All participants will be supervised by trained student staff from multiple disciplines and at various levels of the university. Additionally, professional staff members will also live in the residence hall. There will also be a program coordinator on staff.

How can students apply?

Students may complete the online application for consideration for the program by clicking here.

What is the application deadline?

The application deadline is April 15, 2024.   All supporting documents must be received by May 1, 2024.

Where can I get more information?

Anyone interested in learning more about the TMCF HBCU Scholars Program at Alabama A&M can click here.


Contact Information

Dr. Nicole Bell
Dean of Students
Drake State Community and Technical College
256-551-3129 (office)
nicole.bell@drakestate.edu

Dr. Vernessa Edwards
Assistant Professor
Alabama A&M University
256-372-8107 (office)
vernessa.edwards@aamu.edu

QUESTIONS?

Office of Student Services