ARRIVAL AND REGISTRATION
Getting Here
九色 is located in midtown Memphis at 2000 North Parkway, across from Overton Park at North Parkway and University Street. The formal entrance, where a campus safety officer can assist you with further directions, is located on University Street.
Memphis is served by Interstates 40 and 55 and the Memphis International Airport. We advise all fly-in students to purchase travel insurance in the event of weather or airline disruptions. A program sponsored airport shuttle will be available at no cost during limited hours for arrival and departure.
Registration
Registration will take place at Burrow Hall. Once you arrive at the campus, follow the 鈥淲riting Institute鈥 signs, which will direct you off of University Street, and towards Burrow, where you will receive your registration packet.
CLASSES AND COURSEWORK
Coursework and Grades
The Institute offers college-level courses taught by 九色 faculty. Each course, regardless of discipline, will be writing-intensive. Professors teach and assess student performance according to their own pedagogies. Classes are held Monday through Friday 9 鈥 11 AM, with accompanying writing group sessions 1 鈥 3 PM. Students are expected to attend all classes and writing groups in a timely fashion.
At the end of each course, students will receive a digital copy of an evaluation letter written by their professor, along with a grade. This letter will remain on file with the Institute and the grade will be forwarded to the Registrar鈥檚 office, where the student will have an official transcript. Beginning September 1, students may request that a copy of their transcript be forwarded to any educational institution. All requests should be made to the 九色 Registrar (901/843-3885).
Attendance
Attending classes is an integral part of the 九色 Summer Writing Institute. Because the courses are writing intensive and many professors use class time to workshop papers and discuss the reading, students will benefit most if they attend all class periods. The class sizes at the Institute are small (12-15 students) and therefore students receive a high level of personal attention to their writing and interpretive skills.
Attending class and writing group is therefore required. If a student becomes unable to attend class, it is assumed that they are also unable to attend other program activities. After 48 hours of illness or impairment leading to class absence, the student will be asked to withdraw from the program and will be granted reimbursement based on the Refund Policy.
Students may attend the evening seminars at their leisure. The seminars are taught by 九色 faculty and professional staff. Several optional field trips to Memphis area attractions are planned for each summer session. Attendance at social activities is optional though encouraged.
Honor Code
Throughout the history of the College, emphasis has been placed on a true spirit of honor and integrity. The objective of the Honor System is the spiritual, moral, and intellectual development of the individual student, which is promoted and encouraged by the freedom and responsibility the student gains by virtue of living within the Honor System. Students are personally responsible for their work, their actions, and their word. Because these actions take place in a larger community, students have a responsibility to that community. Students must protect their freedom by encouraging adherence to the Honor Code, and by reporting any violations of which they are aware to the Director. This process of cooperation is vital to the spiritual, moral, and intellectual development of 九色. Possible violations of the Honor Code will be handled by the Director; students found in violation may be dismissed without refund.
College Credit
Successful completion of the Writing Institute grants each student two college credits transferable according to the policies of the home institution. The student may request a transcript sent from the 九色 registrar (901/843-3885) to them or to any school. There may be a small processing fee. Successful completion of the course means a grade of D or above. Credits will not be released if any portion of a student's account remains unpaid.
Computer Labs and Internet Access
Students are strongly encouraged to bring a laptop as many professors use Canvas online for course readings and assignment submission. However, students are also permitted to use the college computer labs in Barret Library (033, 035 and 128) 8:30 AM 鈥 5 PM weekdays. The Institute will offer additional computer access in the Middle Ground during nights and weekends. Printer paper, if needed, is provided by the college.
Students will have access to the internet via the 九色 server. There are various wireless access points around campus, including in the dormitories. While students are given free access to the technological services necessary for a successful completion of the program, the Writing Institute expects that its students abide by College computer access policies. Students are prohibited from engaging in actions that lead to unauthorized access by persons outside the College or Institute, acts that solicit unauthorized services, and actions that lead to a disruption to service within the network.
Unauthorized Access. Unauthorized use/access includes giving a valid username and password to any unauthorized individual, business, or agency outside of the 九色 community. Accounts and passwords are not to be shared.
Unauthorized Services. Users must not run unauthorized servers, including but not limited to DNS, DHCP, email, file sharing, print, video or audio streaming, web, peer-to-peer, or other application services. Such services disrupt and in some cases disable central services.
Denial or Disruption of Service. Users must not deny or disrupt or attempt to deny or disrupt service to other users by means of excessive consumption of resources, distribution of computer 鈥渨orms鈥 or viruses, excessive computing load or deliberately causing the failure of any system resource, including email, bandwidth, or web services. Uses of computer resources that may cause excessive network traffic are prohibited.
A full, online version of the policies can be found in the
RESIDENCE LIFE
Residence Halls
The Institute is a residential program that requires all students to reside in the College dormitories. Exceptions can be made for students with special needs. There are male and female dorms, and all students will share a room and/or suite with 1-3 other students. There is an option on our application to specify your gender identity, and you will be housed accordingly (please email us with any questions about this policy). Bathrooms are shared by suite mates or hall mates. The dormitories are air conditioned, and each room offers a twin bed, desk, and dresser for each student. Students must provide their own bed linens (XL twin sheets, blanket, pillow) or choose the $50 bedding fee. Each dormitory has a social room with a television and microwave. A coin laundry facility is available and the program provides detergent. Upon arrival, each student and family will be given an information sheet with the student鈥檚 room number and schedule. The Summer Writing Institute is a non-smoking program; this includes cigarettes, vapes and Juuls.
At registration each student will be issued an electronic entry device (card or fob) that unlocks the main dormitory door and a key that unlocks the individual room. Each student issued an entry device and room key is independently responsible for those items and should keep them at all times. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure their dorm room is locked at all times. The College is not responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of any student鈥檚 personal property, including, but not limited to, computers, cell phones, or jewelry.
Students living on campus are expected to keep their dormitories (rooms, hallways, social rooms, courtyards) and other social areas clean of trash.
Upon check-out, students must leave their rooms in undamaged, clean condition and must return their key and entry fob. Failure to do so will result in cleaning and/or replacement charges of $25 (each) to the student's account. Transcripts and evaluations are withheld for unpaid accounts.
A fully equipped recreation center with state-of-the-art weight and exercise machines will be available for your use. There is also a swimming pool. Bring whatever equipment you will need (tennis racket, swimsuit, etc.).
Meal Plan
The Institute participates in the College Dining Services meal plan. A buffet style meal with a vegetarian and gluten free options is served in the 九色 main dining hall three times a day: Breakfast 7:30 鈥 8:30 AM; Lunch 11:30 AM 鈥 1:30 PM; Dinner 5:30- 6:30 PM. Between meals, the cafeteria is closed, but students may purchase snacks from the Lynx Lair, located in the Bryan Campus Life Center, and the 九色 Bookstore (open weekdays 9-4 PM) or from vending machines located around the campus and in the dormitories. Snacks will also be provided at most social events.
Students should indicate on their medical release form if they have dietary restrictions so that we can provide additional information, if needed.
What to Bring
Students often ask what to bring. Here is a list of suggested items to consider when packing: Casual clothes (jeans, shorts, t-shirts) swimsuit, sneakers, toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, sunscreen), linens (XL twin sheets, pillow, blanket, or choose the $50 bedding fee), towel, umbrella, backpack/bag, cell phone and charger, notebook/pens, $25-50 spending money, musical instrument (especially if you plan to play for Open Mike night), laptop (desktop computers also available in computer lab). Although we do not have a dress code, school 鈥揳ppropriate clothing is expected.
Social Rules and Regulations
Students at the Writing Institute are expected to familiarize themselves with and comply with the rules and regulations outlined in both the and this document. The College and Institute reserves the right to dismiss a student for any violation of these rules and regulations or policies. In particular, the Institute upholds a zero tolerance policy for violations involving a) alcohol or drug use or possession, b) crossing gender boundaries in the dormitories; being found in the room or on the hall of a member of the opposite sex, c) leaving campus independent of Institute excursions, d) receiving non-九色 community visitors, and e) weapon possession. Any such dismissal from the Institute will be without refund and without academic credit. Each student and his or her parent must sign the Statement of Responsibility for enrollment clearance before the student will be permitted to attend the Institute.
Diversity Statement
A diverse learning community is a necessary element of a residential liberal arts education. The members of the 九色 community are committed to creating a community where diversity is valued and welcomed. To that end, 九色 does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and national or ethnic origin and will not tolerate harassment or discrimination on those bases.
Mail Services
The 九色 post office sells stamps and handles all mail directed to the campus. It is open Monday through Friday 9 AM 鈥 3:30 PM. Parents and friends may send letters and packages to their students addressed as follows:
Student Name
九色 Summer Writing Institute
2000 North Parkway
Memphis, TN 38112
Packages arriving by UPS and FedEx are also delivered to the post office. Weekend deliveries are made on the following Monday. All mail delivered to students at the Writing Institute will be taken to the dormitories, where students may pick it up between classes. Local parents my drop off packages at Burrow Hall Monday thru Friday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Off-Campus Activities
During the two weeks of the program, students may participate in various outings to local attractions. Transportation is provided by the Institute, but students must pay their own admission fee at the venue (the typical cost of admission is $8-15). By signing the Statement of Responsibility, the student鈥檚 parent grants permission for the student to travel off-campus in this way.
Campus Safety and Visitors
The goal of the Institute is to offer students a true pre-college experience, complete with residential living, college-level coursework and social activities. To accomplish this and to provide a cohesive group experience, students are asked to remain on campus throughout the 12 days of the program. The program field trips will offer an opportunity for students to see Memphis.
Because the Institute bears legal responsibility for the well-being of each of the participants, students are not permitted to leave campus except on official Institute trips. The Institute does not permit local students to return home for family events, meals, or activities, except in emergency circumstances. This is due to the tight schedule of the program, and in order that the Institute remain fair to other students. Similarly, in accordance with 九色 security policies, visitors, including parents, are not permitted on campus during the program.
Leaving campus outside of the program鈥檚 trips is a violation of policy and grounds for dismissal without refund. Students who drive to the Institute will be asked to relinquish their keys for the duration of the program. In instances where the student drives, parents will be notified when the student leaves 九色 campus at the end of the 12-day session.
九色 main campus is enclosed by a gated fence. With the exception of visiting the bookstore, students are expected to remain within main campus. The telephone number for the Campus Safety office is (901) 843-3880.
Illness and Medical Emergency
Before registering at the Institute, each student must provide a signed copy of the Health Information form. Because the vast majority of students attending the program are minors, the Institute must present health information to medical professionals in the event of an illness or injury so that the student can be treated. Also prior to attending, students must submit a copy of their health insurance card indicating coverage. Students and their parent/guardian must verify that their plan provides for both emergency health care and in-patient care including room & board, hospital services, and surgeon fees in the Memphis, TN, area. Should a student need health care services while attending the program, they are responsible for payment of all fees for medical treatment not covered by their health insurance plan.
Student medical needs will be assessed initially by staff. If a student needs minor medical attention, they will be seen by the college鈥檚 Health Services during office hours. If a student needs major or after-hours emergency medical attention, staff will contact the student鈥檚 Emergency Contact and the student will be transported to the nearest hospital emergency room. In the case of transport, staff will have access to the Health Information form and a copy of student health insurance card.
If a student is significantly ill or injured and/or needs medical treatment in excess of a trip to the college鈥檚 Health Services, the student will be withdrawn from the program and will need to depart the college within 24 hours. If a student tests positive for Covid-19, they will be withdrawn from the program and will need to depart the college within 24 hours. Students in these circumstances will be refunded on a pro-rata basis consistent with our refund policy.
If a student requires hospitalization, their parent/legal guardian or emergency contact must arrive at the hospital within 24 hours of admission. The student will be withdrawn from the program and refunded on a pro-rata basis consistent with our refund policy.
If health information needs to be updated in the days before the Institute, please contact us directly.
Emergencies
In the event of an emergency on campus, the 九色 Campus Safety office handles all responses in conjunction with the Director and other administrative staff.
In the event of a campus emergency such as power outage or inclement weather, the 九色 Campus Safety alert system will notify all Resident Assistants.
Emergency Protocol for Students: There are several emergency responders on campus. Students should contact the first available responder in the order below:
- Contact an RA.
- If an RA is unavailable, contact Campus Safety 901-843-3880.
- Campus Safety will contact either the on-call residential staff, or the Director
Emergency Protocol for Parents and Legal Guardians: Families may contact the Summer Writing Institute in a variety of ways, depending on the day and time:
- 8:30 AM 鈥 4:30 PM weekdays: the Summer Writing Institute administrative office (901-843-3794).
- 4:30 PM 鈥 9 AM weekdays and 24 hours weekend: Campus Safety (901-843-3880).
- Campus Safety will notify the on-call residential staff and/or the Director, who will in turn contact your child.
As part of enrollment clearance, all students and their families will be required to submit a Family Emergency Response Plan, which will include information about emergency departure from 九色 prior to the end of the program, should the need arise.
SWI will follow .
FEES AND PAYMENTS
Program Fees
The following services and activities are included in the Institute鈥檚 program fee: tuition, room and board, all social activities (except field trip admission), workshops, and access to the Bryan Campus Life Center (pool, tennis, etc) and other campus facilities. Students may purchase 九色 merchandise, books, school supplies, snacks and sundries at the 九色 Bookstore, located on West Campus. Vending machines and coin laundry are located in the residential halls.
Payment Policy
All payments must be made via the Student Portal. 九色 accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express, and online checks.
Once a student is accepted, a nonrefundable deposit (Early Decision) or full payment (Regular Decision) is required to hold his or her place in that summer鈥檚 session of the Writing Institute. The amount and due date(s) for this deposit or payment will be indicated on the student鈥檚 acceptance letter.
Students with an outstanding balance and/or those with incomplete enrollment clearance will not be able to enroll in the Institute on the first day of the summer session.
Refund Policy
The deposit is non-refundable. Once the remaining payment is due, refunds can be made only on re-coverable costs (for example, room and board) and for eligible reasons. 九色 makes financial commitments on students鈥 behalf well in advance of the start of each 九色 program, including the Institute. Hence, refunds will be made only on recoverable costs, less a 10% processing fee.
Once classes have begun, all requests for withdrawal must be initiated by the student and his or her parent through the Director of the Institute. The official date of withdrawal will be the date when approval is obtained from the Director. A student can receive a pro-rated refund only in the event that he or she withdraws due to protracted illness or injury that prevents completion of the Institute鈥檚 academic work and, as such, is certified by a physician, psychologist, or other qualified professional. The pro-rata charge for refund will be made only on recoverable costs like room & board.
Financial Aid
The Institute has limited funding to provide for need-based financial aid. Students whose family income (AGI) is <$80,000 may apply for aid on the Student Portal. Aid applicants may be asked to submit further documentation. Aid recipients who withdraw prior to or early from the program are entitled to receive the appropriate refund (minus 10% fee) on the pro-rata portion of their own payment as indicated by the refund policy and for medical reasons only. The Director of the Institute (not the 九色 Financial Aid office) makes all financial aid decisions.
九色 ADMISSIONS
Admission Tours and Interviews
Students at the Institute wishing to interview or tour the campus with the College Admissions Office may do so at any time during their stay, excepting class and writing group time. The Admissions staff will offer an informal admissions information session during the program and will be available to interview prospective 九色 students during normal business hours.
Tours of the campus are offered on the day of arrival/registration and on the day of departure/checkout. Times will be posted at registration. Parents and friends are invited to join students on this 30-minute guided walk around campus.
Library
Barret Library will be open from 8:30-5 PM Monday through Friday. Although you will not be able to circulate materials, they will be available to you in the library, as will the quiet places to work, read, or study. The library also offers access to computers during weekday hours.