Summer Symposium

Saturday, June 22- Sunday, June 23rd, 2024

Symposium participants are encouraged to attend the Monday, June 24th StartStrong Event.

Meredith Summer Symposium is for deposited students. It is an overnight two-day experience offering both community-building activities and a thought-provoking weekend of speaker-led workshops, action, and reflection sessions centered around topics of culture, identity, advocacy, and social justice to incoming historically underrepresented students who are committed to creating and maintaining culturally inclusive communities.

The goal of the Symposium is to offer incoming BIPOC students (Black, African, African American, Latinx/Hispanic, Native American, Indigenous, Asian, Pacific Islander, South Asian, Bi/Multiracial) and other historically underrepresented student populations the opportunity to engage in ethnic identity development activities, create community, explore different dimensions of leadership and feel empowered to be their authentic selves. 

Summer Symposium FAQs

Selected students will be notified and can attend the symposium at no cost. This will include all meals and overnight accommodations. Below is a general packing list to help participants start thinking about what they need for an overnight stay on a college campus.

Summer Symposium offers a sneak peek into the college journey, with exciting programs and activities designed to help you explore your identity and connect with others. Previous attendees rave about the eye-opening experience, giving them a glimpse into life at Meredith. By diving in and getting involved, you’ll forge meaningful bonds with the campus, fellow students, and supportive mentors. This early engagement can make the transition from high school to college smoother, boosting your confidence and helping you make lasting friendships. Who knows, you might even meet your future roommate or lifelong friend!

  • First-year students must sign up for a StartStrong Event: We encourage you to participate in the June 24 event but understand if you need to select a different day. (StartStrong registration is available to students who have officially reserved their place in the class by submitting their $300 non-refundable enrollment deposit.) If you have already registered for a different StartStrong Event and are accepted into the Summer Symposium, please let us know and we can help coordinate a change of date. 
  • Selected Symposium participants will be able to participate the entire weekend. 
  • Participants will stay in the residence halls and students who drive themselves will surrender keys for the overnight. 
  • Participants are expected to be respectful of all participants and engage in activities. 

The Summer Symposium application process is open until May 30. Spots are limited, so we recommend application submission as early as possible. Students who are selected will be notified and can attend the symposium at no cost. In order to apply, complete the registration form and answer the application questions. 

1) What are your salient identities and why? (While there are many identities that can describe a person there are some that are more prominent than others. As you reflect on who you are, what are the identities that mean something to you and why?) 

2) What do you hope to gain from the Symposium? 

Bedding:

  • Twin (or larger) sheet set
  • Blanket/Comforter
  • Towel
  • Washcloth


Clothing:

  • Comfortable casual clothing for three days. Include pants/jeans, shirts/tops, and
    a sweater if the weather forecast predicts cooler temperatures.
  • A just-in-case outfit for any unforeseen events or activities.
  • Undergarments and socks.
  • Sleepwear
  • An extra pair of shoes, preferably sneakers, for comfort and walking.
  • Raincoat or umbrella, depending on the weather forecast.


Toiletries:

  • Hand soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
  • Deodorant
  • Feminine hygiene products.
  • Any necessary personal care items, such as prescription medications, contact
    lenses, and solutions, etc.


Miscellaneous:

  • Wallet with ID, cash, and cards.
  • Cell phone and charger.
  • Snacks.
  • Water bottle and/or travel coffee mug.
  • Personal comfort items, like a favorite pillow or blanket.
  • Basic first aid supplies, like band-aids, pain relievers, etc.
  • Self-care items: books, handheld games, or tablet and charger.


This list is a basic guide. You know your needs best.

Contact Information:

Bailey Dunn-Phillips,
Assistant Dean of Students: Diversity Programs
Phone: (919) 760-8521

“Summer Symposium was the place I met my closest friends. It gave me my community at Meredith and for that I am forever thankful.“

“I loved Symposium because it set the trajectory of my time at Meredith in a positive direction. I don’t know where I would be now if I didn’t go to Symposium as a first-year student.”

“Symposium gave me the chance to meet new people before starting classes that looked like me. I felt as though I came in with a community and many people don’t get that immediately when they begin college.”