Photo: Fisk University. Retrieved from: www.soulofamerica.com
Fisk University has built its foundation on the integrity and education of students by surrounding them with a strong liberal arts and science based environment where they can develop and grow. Providing a healthy balance of academic and intellectual enrichment, Fisk University is able to assist students with maturing mentally and emotionally as they adjust to a crucial time in their life. Although Fisk University is a top ranked liberal arts college, it is also widely known for its music and performing arts programs as well. The deep history of the school has provided over 100 years of stability and experience that have helped fine-tune the curriculum into the well balanced selection it is today.
Students can enjoy the beautiful Nashville culture and landscapes on and off the campus grounds. The deep rooted musical history of the area produces the ideal atmosphere for students to showcase their creativity and talents while obtaining a solid education in their field of study. Most faculty members have an advanced degree in their field as well as practical and real-world knowledge and skills, giving the learning experience a much more realistic angle for students. Fisk University is consistently recognized for the high success rate of graduates in obtaining leadership positions within the professional and political worlds.
School History
The Fisk University roots date back to Civil War times, being founded in 1886, just six months after the end of the war. The three founders, John Ogden, Rev. Erastus Milo Cravath and Rev. Edward P. Smith, established the school to provide poverty stricken students of all ages a solid education. By 1954. Fisk University became the first black college in the private sector to become accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. Since very early in the formation, Fisk University has been affiliated with the United Church of Christ. By 1867, Fisk University adapted a new policy on education that opened its doors to all students, regardless of race, religion or culture.
Fisk University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
By the late 1800s, Fisk University became widely known for its Jubilee singers, which consisted of a group of students who traveled abroad with the school treasury in pocket, raising money to help fund their school. The efforts and talents of this group led to the funding and development of the Jubilee Hall, which was the first permanent building created for the purpose of educating black students. Aside from its musical roots, Fisk University also has a long line of historical alumni as well, such as Booker T. Washington, Thurgood Marshall and W.E.B. Du Bois. Continuously learning has always been a strong emphasis at Fisk, despite financial class. Throughout the years, Fisk University has accomplished many milestones and broken many boundaries to black students such as being the first black college accredited by the Association.
Campus Life
Campus life helps students to absorb the rich heritage of Fisk University with the historical buildings, seminars and student run organizations that plan intellectually motivated events on campus to keep students involved. With such a vigorous academic curriculum, students can utilize their down time to participate in live performances and routinely held sporting events, or venture off campus to visit some of the most historical places in Nashville. This type of lively atmosphere gives students the perfect setting to transition into college life, and to develop long-lasting friendships. Students are provided encouragement to achieve their goals and succeed in their professional careers by utilizing the skills and perceptions learned on campus. First year students are encouraged to attend the New Student Orientation to help get introduced to all that Fisk University has to offer, as well as become accustomed to college life.
Fisk University students can take advantage of the online bookstore and other essential campus offerings such as dinning services, career development and spiritual counseling. Many students choose to become involved with the various varsity and intramural sports teams, some even competing in Division II championships. Whether you are looking for academic, spiritual, health related or personal support, the Office of Student Services is available to assist students with all of their needs. Many students take advantage of the seminars and retreats organized by the various special interest groups that meet around campus, helping them to develop strong abilities to use critical thinking, logic and leadership qualities that will define their individuality and professionalism.
Although first year students that choose to live on campus generally live in the residential halls situated on campus, Fisk University also offers several other housing options as well. Apartment buildings and townhouse complexes are set up on and off campus, and consist of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartments for students to dorm together or alone. The Office of Residential Life is available to help students apply and obtain housing each year, as well as applying or the study abroad programs that Fisk offers.
Financial Aid
Fisk University and students are highly dedicated to alleviating the stress of tuition and expenses associated with college. With a deeply-rooted heritage of providing a strong education to poverty stricken students, Fisk University employs the utmost effort to apply a healthy amount of funding options. Student organized clubs such as the Jubilee Singers remain fundraisers for Fisk, developing potential scholarships for future students. The Office of Financial Aid offers students guidance on where to explore their funding options, and how to apply for each resource. Counselors are available to assist students and their families with any concerns or questions regarding funding options or available programs.
Although Fisk University accepts loans and scholarships from various lenders, the University also offers students independently-funded scholarships based on academic and athletic achievement. Need-based grants are available to those who qualify, as are grants for special circumstances such as military or veteran status. Many students take full advantage of the work-study programs that offer positions to students both on and off campus to help cover their expenses.
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