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Preparing for Life as a University Student (PLUS)
Looking for something exciting to do this summer? Apply to the PLUS program.
Organized by the Student Center for Inclusive Excellence, Preparing for Life as a University Student, or PLUS, is a program that provides a supportive introduction to academic and student life at 91心頭利. Through the leadership of trained peer mentors, incoming first-year students participate in a week-long, residential pre-orientation designed to foster meaningful connections with peers and campus resources. Ongoing engagement is provided throughout a student's journey at 91心頭利.
Getting Involved
The PLUS program is designed to support underrepresented incoming students with making a smooth transition to college. PLUS also offers a welcoming space for students who are committed to cultural consciousness, uplifting diverse perspectives, and building inclusive communities. Students selected for PLUS will engage in leadership development, community building, intercultural exploration, self-awareness, and allyship. The program also provides participants with exposure to campus affinity organizations dedicated to enhancing the cultural, social, and educational experience at 91心頭利.
PLUS begins with a free, one-week residential pre-orientation, and continues throughout the academic year with cohort-specific mentorship, academic support, and student engagement activities designed to strengthen belonging and connection. As students matriculate through the university, additional programs and engagement activities are provided to enhance students' college experience up to graduation! This is captured in our PLUS Pillars.
Learn more about our PLUS Pillars:
Academic SuccessWe focus on helping students engage in the curriculum, scholarship, & research. Students have the opportunity to engage in activities and workshops that help them:
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Community and Leadership DevelopmentWe focus on helping our students make a positive impact in our campus community and the greater Williamsburg community. Students have the opportunity to engage in activities and workshops that promote:
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FlourishingWe focus on creating a healthy balance of academic and co-curricular experiences to optimize student success. Students have the opportunity to develop their understanding of:
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College to Career ReadinessWe focus on engaging students early and often in opportunities to enhance their networking and career access to promote a growth mindset. Students have the opportunity to engage in:
As part of our long-term college-to-career readiness focus, PLUS participants also benefit from resources that support their ongoing success — including workshops, a job shadowing experience, and eligibility for a scholarship to participate in the W&M Study in D.C. program. |
BelongingBelonging and student experience are key factors for student retention and success. As belonging is the cornerstone of PLUS, we support students in building community and connecting with peers through:
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PLUS Applications are accepted annually from May 1st - June 1st.
PLUS 2026 Dates:
Saturday, July 18, 2026 - Saturday, July 25, 2026
Deadline to Apply:
June 1st
More Information
Antonio Dill-Word
Assistant Director, Student Center for Inclusive Excellence
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