Accelerate, developed by the Office of Housing and Residence Life, is a program specifically designed for incoming first year students to help them get a head start with their on-campus experience. Participating students will be introduced to their Living-Learning Community, residence hall leaders, Resident Assistants, and professional staff members — all before the residence halls officially open. This opportunity helps students acclimate to the Ball State University campus as well as learn how to successfully get involved. A limited number of students from each residence hall throughout campus will be selected to participate. Along with the activities, the program provides meals and lodging for free. 

"Accelerate was responsible for the successful transition I've experienced from high school to college. Thanks to Accelerate, I was motivated and met the amazing friends I have now."
 - ROSNELLYS PEREZ, FORMER ACCELERATE STUDENT

    Accelerate participants will… 

    • Begin to develop a sense of belonging in the residence hall communities.
    • Foster connection and friendship with fellow students living on campus and within their Living-Learning Communities (LLC).

    • Identify characteristics of strong leadership.
    • Apply leadership skills.
    • Gain hands-on experience outside of the classroom within the LLC space.
    • Grow in the top 8 NACE competencies.

    Apply to be added to the waitlist for the
    2023 Accelerate Summer Bridge Program

    ApplY

    Apply to be an (acc)
    Accelerate Connections Coordinator LEARN MORE APPLY

    Apply to be an (APD)
    Accelerate Program Director 
    LEARN MORE APPLY

    Participant Expectations

    For students to get the most out of this unique experience, we ask all Accelerate participants to agree to and take responsibility for certain expectations.

    Schedule and Activities

    The following reflects the 2022 Summer Bridge Program schedule and activities.

     
    • Check into your residence hall and move-in
    • Meet your Accelerate mentors
    • Dinner
    • Keynote speaker
    • Reflection Activities
    • Breakfast
    • Guest Speaker presentations on leadership, getting involved on campus
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Summer Bridge group activities
    • Reflection activities 
    • Breakfast
    • Campus Activities
    • Lunch
    • Accelerate Team Photos
    • Dinner at Bracken House
    • Night at the Rec
    • Help with move in
    • Help with move in



    “I really had a great time at Accelerate! It really helped me get familiar with campus and I felt more confident going to classes. It was also a big help moving in early.”
         -JESSICA HILL, FORMER ACCELERATE STUDENT
     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, students should apply prior to July 21. There is limited space in the program and students' requests to participate will be accepted on a first-come, first serve basis.
    No, just a person who is friendly and has a willingness to learn.
    Students will have the opportunity to meet current student leaders and staff, learn how to get involved on campus, and meet lots of new people!
    No. There is no cost or fee. We just ask that you are ready to learn and have fun.
    Students will be notified mid July via their Ball State email. 
    We ask that students participating in Accelerate move in a few days before other students. Move-in day for Accelerate students will be Sunday, August 13. We also expect you to participate in the Accelerate functions and assist with move-in activities.
    Students in the Accelerate program will move into their residence hall. When you arrive on campus, head straight to your building to start checking in. Then we will have a mentor meet you at the front desk of your hall.
    Participants will first go to their residence hall to move-in! Staff members will be there to greet you and help with anything you might need.

    Want to Learn More?

    If you have additional questions about getting involved, send us an email.

    Email Us