Texas Academy Preview Day hosted 53 prospective students at its 30th annual event — an opportunity for exceptional students from across the state to learn about the admissions requirements and the benefits of being an academy scholar — from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 17 at ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University.
The morning began with a light breakfast prior to a brief presentation that outlined the admissions criteria, application process and the features and benefits of studying at
Texas Academy. A student panel followed the presentation, during which guests had the opportunity to ask questions, which were answered by current students. The day concluded with a campus tour, led by the Welcome Center’s LU Crew.
According to Tracie Craig, associate dean of the Texas Academy, Preview Day has been offered since Texas Academy began in 1993, when prospective students met in the library. Texas Academy is an elite program structured for exceptional students who seek rigorous academics, research opportunities and personal growth.
“These objectives are met through coursework alongside college students at LU, service projects and professional development workshops, as well as college and career exploration activities,” Craig explained. “Students’ schedules are designed individually based on the track of their choosing to meet their long-term academic goals and help them graduate on the Distinguished Achievement Program per the state of Texas. All academic fields are welcome and when students graduate from Texas Academy core complete, all credits transfer to any public university in Texas.”
Students with an SAT score of 1130 or higher and/or an ACT score of 23 or higher are invited to apply to Texas Academy. “We consider GPA and class rank and conduct an interview in our holistic evaluation of the candidates,” Craig said.
The benefit of Preview Day, she added, is that prospective students get an inside look at the distinguished program.
“There are many families who are unaware of Texas Academy or have an inaccurate understanding of what it is and who attends,” Craig said. “Academy students are high school juniors and seniors who are academically exceptional and prepared for college coursework. They enjoy being involved in intramural sports, clubs, band and prom just like a traditional school. The primary difference is they finish high school up to two years ahead in their college coursework. After attending a Preview Day, guests not only gain general knowledge of the academy, but they are also encouraged to interact with current students, which helps them determine if Texas Academy is a good fit for them.”
Following Saturday’s event, the associate dean said six students have already applied to the program.
Learn more about the Texas Academy