The Student Mentoring Academic Resource Team (SMART) Start Program is designed to empower new students who are historically underrepresented in higher education. Participants are matched with an upperclass MSUM student mentor, many of whom have been SMART Start mentees in the past. Students engage in activities to share their diverse cultures and identities, participate in workshops to learn about resources available on campus, and develop a support network among their peers, staff, and faculty.
The mission of the program is to ensure that each new Dragon has the resources needed to achieve their personal, academic and career goals.
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion covers all program costs, including the cost of early move-in to the residence halls.
The SMART Start Program will be held from Sunday, August 18, to Wednesday, August 21, 2019. After the initial program in August, additional workshops and activities are hosted throughout the first year for SMART Start students. Examples of previous activities include: bowling, Sky Zone, craft and game nights, study groups, and a workshop discussing strategies for students to talk to and connect with their professors.
2019 SMART Start Program Application
If you have more questions about the SMART Start Program, please contact the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.