'What is the Madison Experience?'

 

THE 3,228 BRIGHT YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN WHO ENTERED JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY AS FRESHMAN THIS FALL SHARE A UNIQUE DISTINCTION -- they will graduate as JMU turns 100 years old. At their expected graduation date in 2008, the university will be conducting a yearlong celebration marking the centennial of the institution's founding on March 14, 1908.

The Class of 2008 shares a bond with those who have preceded them at Madison since the first decade of the 20th century. Members of the class, like earlier generations, will have their lives enriched by that very special phenomenon known as the "Madison Experience."

We hear the phrase a lot, but exactly what does it mean? What is the Madison Experience?

Admittedly it's one of those things that is almost impossible to define precisely, to quantify into parts and sections. It is a case where, as the old saying goes, "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts."

In simplest terms, the Madison Experience is a combination of the many unique qualities that make JMU the very special place that it is. In the past, phrases like the Spirit of Bluestone Hill, the JMU Way and all together one summarized the totality of the Madison Experience. 

It can be experienced -- as thousands can attest -- but it can't be
totally explained.

The Madison Experience is a campus atmosphere that combines the best attributes of two different worlds in higher education: the large research university and the small liberal arts college. JMU is large enough to offer a broad range of academic programs, acclaimed courses of study, an esteemed faculty and the latest word in support facilities and technology. At the same time, like the finest liberal arts colleges, the JMU campus maintains the rich traditions of a student-centered, supportive environment. 

At the heart of the Madison Experience is the academic program. Extensive offerings -- more than 100 programs of study -- are available at JMU on the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. In each area of study, our professors do more than simply lecture and give tests. They advise, they mentor, they develop close learning relationships with eager students. JMU faculty members care; they care deeply about their students and their scholarly fields of study. 

A key aspect of any great academic institution is a solid background in the liberal arts, and one is provided through the General Education Program that sets JMU students off on solid footing toward their majors and their lives. The overall academic program is strengthened by an active system of advising, honors program, internships and international education. Students also become acquainted with the latest in information technology, learning how to deal effectively with today's electronically sophisticated world.

While students are challenged academically, they also find support and assistance from the faculty and staff. This experience enables students to grow both intellectually and individually. 

Learning extends far beyond the classroom. Both academic and leadership programs are available in many of JMU's residence halls, where a variety of living options are available.

The university's mission statement first points to a commitment to "preparing students to be educated and enlightened," then to the equally important commitment to producing "citizens who will lead productive and meaningful lives."

Students at JMU benefit from real-world experiences. Active programs of leadership training are available along with numerous programs that stress the role and importance of good citizenship. The name of our center for programs that provides assistance to students -- the Student Success Center -- exemplifies the emphasis on developing not only educated students, but those who will succeed in society as good citizens.

JMU has won acclaim in several national studies for volunteerism programs. Some 1,500 students give assistance annually to more than 100 community agencies. Many students take part in Alternative Spring Break trips -- where students forgo their spring vacations to aid others.

The Madison Experience includes more than 300 clubs and organizations of all types that provide opportunities for students to broaden their professional and social experiences and to seek out others with common interests. A broad program of athletics provides students a rallying point and develops esprit de corps among the JMU family.

Finally there is the JMU campus itself.  The warmth of the university and its citizens is reflected in the upbeat atmosphere created by the campus' beautiful appearance.

These are all essential elements of the total package that creates the Madison Experience -- an experience where the parts add up to a greater whole that lasts a lifetime.

 

 

Linwood H. Rose

President