Center for Diversity and Inclusion

TRUSelf Program

TRUSelf is an enrichment program designed to support historically underrepresented students entering Truman State University. The program provides students with an opportunity to get established, make some friends, and learn what they need to do to be successful at college.

Qualifying TRUSelf scholars apply to be enrolled in the program the summer before their first year at Truman.
In addition to the opportunity to get acclimated to life on a college campus prior to the start of classes, TRUSelf scholars are enrolled in a year-long mentoring program with upperclassmen.
The program helps prepare students mentally and socially for college-level work, providing insights on academic success strategies at a highly selective university.

How Can I Benefit?

 

  • Gain a greater awareness of self and college by engaging in academically and socially stimulating workshops.
  • Develop a “personal success plan” with strategies for overcoming common first-year challenges.
  • Enjoy the opportunity to connect with departments, staff, and faculty on a more personal level.
  • Connect with notable Truman State alumni of color.
  • Explore Kirksville and the Truman campus, learning about resources available to you.
  • Build lasting connections and friendships.
  • Enroll in a year-long mentoring program with upperclassmen focused on building academic and social capital.

2024 Schedule

TRU Self scholars arrive on campus prior to the traditional move-in date and participate in a four-day program that allows them to explore campus and the community, as well as learn about resources to aid in their success at the college level.

Saturday, August 12—Tuesday, August 15


11:00 am – 3:00 pmBH 112Arrival and Check-In
3:30 – 4:30 pmMG 2001Family Reception
5:00 – 6:00 pmRyle HallIntroductions and Dinner
6:00 – 7:30 pmRyle Hall LoungeIce Breakers and Fun
9:00 – 10:30 pmUniversity FarmS’mores and Stargazing


8:30 – 9:45 amBH 109Peer Mentor Led Dialogue
10:00 – 11:30 amDiner 54Brunch
12:30 am – 3:30 pmDay on the Town Tour
3:30 – 5:00 pmThousand HillsMentor’s Choice Activity
5:00 – 6:00 pmRyle HallDinner
6:30 – 8:00 pmStokes StadiumMinute to Win It!


8:00 – 8:45 amRyle HallBreakfast
9:30 am – 11:00 amCareer CenterWorkshop w/ the Career Center
11:30 am – 12:45 pmRyle HallUniversity Counseling Services Chat
1:00 – 2:30 pmBH 109Campus Tour
3:00 – 4:00 pmQuadPeer Mentor Dialogue
5:00 – 7:00 pmDinner at the President’s House
9:00 – 10:30 pmQuadMovie Night


8:00 – 8:45 amRyleBreakfast
9:00 – 11:00 amBH 112
Library		Habits of Success Workshop
Library Museum Activity
11:00 – 11:45 amBreak
11:45 am – 12:45 pmRyle HallLunch
12:45 – 2:00 pmSUB Down UnderMix and Mingle w/ Faculty
2:00 – 3:00 pmMG 1000Identity Development in College
3:00 – 5:00 pmEscape RoomFinal Hoorah/Escape Room
5:00 – 6:30 pmKababeshDinner in Town
7:00 – 8:00 pmBH 111Final Wrap Up and Chat

Meet the Mentors!

Bemnet Araga, Junior

Bemnet Araga is from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He is involved as the President of the Habesha Student Union and is a member of CCE and ASA.

Khia Ingram, Senior

Khia Ingram is from Pilot Knob, MO. She is involved with TruSisters, the Association of Black Collegians, the Orchestra, and the Flute Quartet. For fun, she enjoys baking and photography.

Idy Eknamen, Junior

Idy Ekanem is from Port Harcourt, Nigeria. She is a member of the African Students Association, the Nursing Students Association, and TruSisters.

Zae Crenshaw, Junior

Zae Crenshaw is from St. Louis. He is part of the American Chemical Society (ACS), the Association of Black Collegians (ABCS), and Alpha Chi Sigma.

Sarah Smith, Junior

Sarah Smith is from Phillipsburg, Missouri. She is involved in the Cheer Team and CDI.

Jada Ray, Junior

Jada Ray is from Raymore/Peculiar, Missouri. She is involved in TruSisters and is the Secretary of the ABC.

Have questions?

For more information about the TRU Self Program, contact the Center for Diversity and Inclusion, diversity@truman.edu, (660) 785-4142.

Center for Diversity and Inclusion