Alcorn State icon with Oakland Chapel and trees and the Alcorn Wordmark

Logo for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund SOAR program. The acronym SOAR is displayed in large bold red letters, overlaid with black silhouettes of flying birds. Above the birds, "Thurgood Marshall College Fund" appears in black serif text. Below reads the tagline: "Seeking, Observing and Achieving Results

 

What Is TMCF SOAR?

TMCF SOAR is a multi-year college and career readiness program that prepares high school students for life beyond graduation. This summer, Alcorn State University — the nation’s first historically Black land-grant institution — is proud to host one of 16 week-long residential SOAR programs taking place across the country.

During July 12–17, 2026, selected students will live on Alcorn’s beautiful campus in Lorman, Mississippi, immersed in an experience designed to open doors, build skills, and ignite possibilities.

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

During your week at Alcorn, you will:

  • Explore academic majors and discover career pathways that match your passions and strengths
  • Participate in hands-on professional and leadership development activities
  • Meet current Alcorn students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are paving the way
  • Learn about the college admissions process and how to maximize your financial aid opportunities
  • Complete a Gallup Strengths Assessment and receive personalized coaching
  • Sharpen your ACT skills and get college application coaching
  • Build an authentic résumé and learn how to dress for success
  • Create lifelong friendships with a cohort of driven peers from across Mississippi
  • Enjoy fun evening activities including a headphone party, bonfire, hayride, and line dancing

PROGRAM DATES & DETAILS 

Program Details Cost & Eligibility
July 12–17, 2026 100% Free to Participate
Alcorn State University Housing & Meals Covered
Lorman, Mississippi High School Class of 2027
Residential (on-campus housing) Min. 2.5 GPA Preferred

ELIGIBILITY & HOW TO APPLY

Who Should Apply?

TMCF SOAR at Alcorn State University is designed for motivated high school students who are eager to invest in their future. You may be the right fit if you:

  • Are a member of the high school graduating class of 2027
  • Have a minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (preferred)
  • Are ready to explore college life, career options, and your own potential

Application Requirements:

  • Completed online application
  • Academic transcript (official or unofficial)
  • One letter of recommendation from a teacher, administrator, advisor, coach, or school counselor
  • Personal statement (250–300 words) responding to the following prompt:

“What are your short-term and long-term goals after high school? How can your participation in the TMCF SOAR Program assist you in achieving these goals? In your response, reflect on how your experiences have shaped your goals and motivation.”