FAST Academy
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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.
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.
Workshop Guest Speaker
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Felisha Burleson - Founder, The Patchwork Society
Workshop Guest Speaker
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Jackie Davis - Artist, Advocate, Reach President-Elect
Workshop Guest Speaker
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Justin Black - Author of Redefining Normal: How two foster kids beat the odds and discovered healing, happiness and love
Workshop Guest Speaker
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Michael Guinn - Uplift Your Life Inc, CEO; Storyteller-Actor-Activist-Author
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.
What should I bring to campus?
Your single-occupant dorm room comes furnished and new bedding is provided! You can bring clothes and items to make yourself comfortable while on campus.
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 3-week program June 2-25, 2025.
Who is eligible to participate in the FAST Academy?
- Qualify for the for the Foster Care or Adopted Tuition and Fee Waiver
- Current male or female high school senior or recent graduate
- 18th birthday before June 1, 2025
What is the daily schedule?
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
- Breakfast: 8-9am
- Math 1013: 9-11:30am
- Lunch: 12-1:00pm
- English 1013: 1-3:30pm
- Free time: 3:30-6:00pm
- Dinner: 6-7:00pm
- English Study Hall: 7-8:30pm
Tuesday, Thursday
- Breakfast: 8-9am
- English 1013: 9-11:30am
- Lunch: 12-1:00pm
- Math 1013: 1-3:30pm
- Free time: 3:30-6:00pm
- Dinner: 6-7:00pm
- Math Study Hall: 7-8:30pm
Weekends
- All meals provided daily
- Combined study hall Sunday afternoon
- Campus events
- Off-campus excursions as time permits
What is the application process?
Complete these steps as soon as possible:
- Apply to FAST Academy
- Apply TWU at ApplyTexas.org
- Provide your immunization documentation showing your completed meningitis vaccine
- Submit your high school transcript (partial transcripts are accepted)
- Submit your TSI test scores (if applicable)
- Submit your Foster Care or Adopted Tuition and Fee Waiver
Has my FAST application been received?
You will receive communication from the FAST Academy Team within 24-48 hours of submitting your application. Please allow additional time for weekends and holidays.
I work with high school students, are there FAST Academy resources I can share?
Yes! Please feel free to share the resources below or contact us for group presentations.
Questions? Contact us at 940-898-2789 or email FAST@twu.edu.
Page last updated 2:03 PM, December 16, 2024