UMassD Ready
A five-day transition program for first generation UMass Dartmouth students. Students live on campus, meet classmates, work with faculty, and earn a free college credit before the fall semester begins. Please note that this program is invitation-only.
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What is UMassD Ready?
UMassD Ready is a head start for a select group of first-generation UMass Dartmouth students. Before the fall semester officially begins, this group moves on to campus, takes a class with an engaging professor, and learns what it’s like to be a college student — taking care of the basics such as where to get books, do laundry, work out, talk to the registrar or financial aid, and hang out with new friends — all while earning a free college credit before the fall semester begins. The goal is simple: starting the semester ready.
How the program works
Important: in order to earn one credit for "AAC 101: U Succeed 101", both parts need to be completed.
Part 1
Online module
August 1 – August 14 · 3–5 hours
Students take the “UMassD Get Ready” course online, and it is required before the in-person week.
Part 2
In-person week
August 24 – August 28 · On campus
Five full days of academics, workshops, and community building. Residential students move in early.
The experience
- Real academics. A college-level course that earns one credit.
- Early friendships. Start the semester already knowing classmates.
- Campus fluency. Find buildings, learn the dining hall tricks, and master parking and the UMass Pass.
- Career jumpstart. Set up Handshake, take StrengthsFinder, and meet Career Center staff.
- Logistics handled. Handle billing, financial aid, accessibility, work-study, and housing before classes start.
- Genuine fun. Enjoy events like tie-dye, game night, craft night, and bowling.
The week at a glance
Daily events run from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. or later.
| Date | Activities |
|---|---|
| Mon, Aug. 24 | Move-in for students living on campus, welcome, grill and chill on the Quad, tie-dye, and team building. |
| Tue, Aug. 25 | Goal setting, hidden curriculum, Financial Aid ice cream social, AI and academics, and craft night. |
| Wed, Aug. 26 | Fitness center, service project, Career Jumpstart, Handshake lab, and BINGO night. |
| Thu, Aug. 27 | Textbooks and transportation 101, campus scavenger hunt, StrengthsFinder, mentor time, and bowling night. |
| Fri, Aug. 28 | First-year success panel, final presentations, and closing ceremony. |
For parents and families
Sending your student to college is a big step. UMassD Ready is designed to make that transition smoother for them and for you.
- Your student starts the first day of fall classes already oriented, already connected, and already on the right academic footing.
- Every activity is led or supervised by UMassD faculty, staff, and trained peer mentors. Residential students move into their actual fall housing.
- There is no cost. No tuition, no program fee, no hidden charges. The college credit is included.
- Financial aid, billing, accessibility services, and housing teams are all available on-site during the program week. Questions students usually handle by phone get handled in person.
Questions? Contact the UMassD Ready Program at umassd.ready@umassd.edu.
Common questions
Yes. The program, the credit, the meals, and the activities are all included at no charge.
Commuters are welcome and meet their crew on day one. The full schedule is required and you'll commute daily for the program to get acclimated to your new routine.
Full days from 7am to 8pm or later, every day for five days. Plan to be fully present for the week.
Yes. Only students who complete the online module between August 1 and August 14 are eligible for the in-person week.
Complete this brief questionnaire to apply.