FAST Academy
TWU's new FAST Academy is a short-term, summer residential bridge program that is specifically designed to help foster-care alumni succeed and thrive! Through hands-on activities and experiential learning, TWU faculty provide specialized instruction in math and English that will help ensure you are prepared for the rigors of the college classroom.
Coursework is designed to catalyze creative and analytical thinking while providing space for first-time college students to learn how to successfully navigate college.
Applications for Summer 2024 to the FAST Academy are currently closed.
Meet our Faculty
Jackie Hoermann-Elliott, PhD
Assistant Professor of English; Director of First-Year Composition
PhD, Texas Christian University
Office: CFO 130
Phone: 940-898-2348
Dr. Elliott takes an embodied approach to teaching writing, using mindfulness-based and sensory activities to enhance learning. In her course, students will practice daily personal writing in connection to professional writing in the genres of narration, research, and analysis.
Shawnda Smith, PhD
Assistant Professor, Mathematics
PhD, Texas State University
Office: MCL 415
Phone: 940-898-2905
Dr. Smith works closely with students to explore and understand mathematics deeply. In her course, students will dive into logic and mathematics used in everyday life.
FAQ
How much does it cost?
There is no cost to participate in the FAST Academy, and residential costs as well as instructional materials, including books are covered by the program. Students will not pay any additional fees!
How many hours can be earned?
Students who complete both classes will earn up to 6 credit hours:
- ENGL 1013 (3 credit hours)
- MATH 1013 (3 credit hours)
Will meals and housing be included?
Yes, meals and housing are included.
How many participants will be accepted?
For the first class, we will accept 25 students. As the program grows, we may be able to accept more.
I'm planning on attending college somewhere else, can I still participate in the FAST Academy?
Yes! Certainly, we hope you would want to continue your studies at TWU, but our FAST Academy is open to ALL foster-care alumni, not just future TWU students.
When does it begin, and how long does it last?
FAST is a three-week program. Students will move in June 2 and will move out June 22.
Who is eligible to participate in the FAST Academy?
Students who are eligible for the foster care or adopted tuition and fee waiver may apply.
What is the daily schedule?
While there could be slight variations during the week, a typical day consists of:
- Breakfast
- Math 1013
- English 1013
- Lunch
- Additional academic time
- Free time
- Dinner
- Evening recreational/social event or study hall (alternating days)
- Free time
- Weekend field trips
What documents will I need?
Complete these steps as soon as possible:
- Apply at ApplyTexas.org
- Provide your immunization documentation
- First-Year Students: Submit final high school transcripts with graduation date
- First-Year Students: If needed, register for TSI test
- Transfer Students: Submit final transcripts from current college with all grades
Already applied and accepted to Texas Woman’s?
Questions? Contact us at 940-898-2789 or email Ronique Abouzar.
Page last updated 11:27 AM, April 23, 2024