Sponsored by the College of Arts & Sciences
What are the Humanities and Why We Explore Them
The Humanities is the study of humans from a primarily qualitative perspective – the Humanities look at the how and why of human behavior and motivations; in other words, the Humanities focus on any area “where human beings pursue knowledge and the betterment of humankind,” according to MSU’s Institute for the Humanities (https://www.ih.msstate.edu/about/humanities).
Camp Purpose
This camp will provide 15 nominated scholars from across the state the opportunity to explore the Humanities with other like-minded Mississippi scholars through expert lecture and experiential learning and field trips, providing avenues for future study and/or careers with fun along the way!
Camp Theme
Understanding Mississippi to Write the Future
Dates/Location
Sunday, June 8 – Friday, June 13, 2025
Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
Scholars
Juniors/seniors in high school for the 2025-2026 academic year who exhibit the following qualities:
- Leadership Qualities & Collaborative Spirit (can lead and follow)
- Empathy toward Others (cares about others)
- Inquisitive Nature (curious about the world around them)
- Task-Oriented (can stay on task when needed)
- Open to New Ideas & Different Perspectives
- High Maturity Level (to handle college-level discussions/content)
- Independent (can spend a week away from home)
Classes/Activities
Each day, the scholars will participate in single-session classes with experiential learning opportunities taught by professionals in various Humanities disciplines (African American Studies, Classic and Modern Languages and Literature, Communication, Creative Writing, Gender Studies, History, Linguistics, Literature, Philosophy, Religion, etc.), and when classes are not in session, the scholars will have interactive activities, including field trips, that complement the various humanities subjects. The classes and activities will stretch the scholars’ critical/creative thinking skills while the scholars also have fun and network with professionals and peers!
Cost
$250 for the week (all-inclusive)
Housing/Food
Residence hall housing and meal plan included in camp cost (dietary/ADA needs will be accommodated)
Nomination Form and Process
- Each school can nominate up to 2 scholars. The nomination process is comprised of at least one recommendation per scholar by academic faculty/staff from the school (e.g., teaching faculty, guidance counselors, assistant principals). Nominees may have more than one recommendation form submitted on their behalf, but the quality of the nomination form will be considered over the quantity of forms.
- Please only nominate students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, exhibit empathy toward others, and are enthusiastic about attending Humanities Camp. These nominees should exhibit a MAJORITY of the following qualities:
- Leadership Qualities & Collaborative Spirit (can lead and follow)
- Empathy toward Others (cares about others)
- Inquisitive Nature (curious about the world around them)
- Task-Oriented (can stay on task when needed)
- Open to New Ideas & Different Perspectives
- High Maturity Level (to handle college-level discussions/content)
- Independent (can spend a week away from home)
- Each nominee must submit a written statement explaining why they are interested in the Humanities and/or Humanities Camp and what they hope to contribute to the Humanities Camp community in 300-500 words.
- Nomination forms must include parent/guardian contact information to be considered.
- Nomination Forms Available Starting Monday, September 16th, 2024
- Nomination Deadline is Wednesday, February 5, 2025
- Information packets about the camp and its classes/activities will be sent to the selected scholars.
Contact
For more information, please contact:
L. Abigail Voller
Camp Coordinator/Director
Instructor II of English at Mississippi State University
lav9@english.msstate.edu
662-325-2376
