Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can any academy-bound student attend Greystone or is this program just for academy-sponsored or foundation-sponsored students?
A: Greystone is open to all academy-bound students - whether or not they have sponsorship. The only major prerequisite is that students arrive committed to pursue their ambitions and goals vigorously. If you have true desire and commitment, Greystone has a place reserved for you.
Q: Why is the Greystone academic program taught at the college level and not at the high school level like most of the other prep schools?
A: As we talked with the academies, their admissions boards and foundations, it became clear that the academies did not need another high school level prep school - there are simply too many high school level programs and their quality varies widely. What the academies desired most was a program that would challenge high school graduates at a high level academically and inspire them to reach beyond their current abilities and qualifications. Although academy candidates are all high school graduates, they do not necessarily have the same academic background. Rather than offer a single course matrix, Greystone decided to offer students a selection of courses that could be matched with each student's abilities. The only cost efficient way of accomplishing this was to affiliate with an existing college/university - the trick was to find an institution that was able to support our many academic and physical needs at the highest level. We were very fortunate to find and affiliate with Schreiner University. They meet and exceed all Greystone requirements to support the total program, and they share our total commitment to each student’s success.
Q: Should I be concerned that the Schreiner courses are too hard for me?
A: Although Greystone is taught at the college-level, as a high school graduate your next logical step toward higher education is college. Believe it or not, you are ready for college-level work. The Greystone curriculum is designed around Calculus, Chemistry, History and English Composition & Rhetoric. Because of our affiliation with Schreiner, we have the ability to select from a series of courses - some more or less challenging than the baseline Greystone courses - to meet each student's academic abilities. Due to the small class sizes and tutoring, help is easily available should you ever need additional academic assistance. Additionally, you will not be going through the program alone. Other Greystone students will be in your class who can help you and you are encouraged to join study groups, which will assist the learning process. Keep in mind; if you had been accepted into the academy on your first try, you would be engaged in a rigorous, ‘take no prisoners’ college-level program. If you felt that you were ready for the academy then you're definitely ready for Greystone.
Q: When I complete the Greystone program and qualify to enter an academy, will I be able to begin the academy as a sophomore?
A: After one or two years at Greystone you do gain significant academic options once you enter the academy. However, all students entering the academies must complete all four years of academic and military instruction - including a rigorous first year. The Greystone curriculum is specifically designed to prepare students for the most challenging first-year courses at the academy - Calculus, Chemistry, History and English Composition & Rhetoric. Completion of the Greystone program will allow students entering an academy the option of either “testing out” (validating) or retaking academic courses experienced while at Schreiner. Validating courses will free up their academic matrix allowing additional courses to be included during the junior/senior year. Retaking a course will result in an improved grade having previously experienced the same course material taught by fully qualified professors with over 17 years average university-level teaching experience. What you will learn while at Greystone is directly applicable and meaningful to those mandatory freshman courses at the academies.
Q: By completing the Greystone program at Schreiner University, will I automatically qualify to enter the academy?
A: No. There are no guarantees offered to any academy-bound student attending any private academy preparatory program. However, by completing the Greystone program, students will improve their competitiveness for admission and maximize their academic options when they arrive at the academy. Should a student not receive their appointment, time at Greystone will not have been wasted. Greystone students complete freshman year and go for admission; if rejected a second time, they can continue their college education as a sophomore for still another shot at admission to an academy. As a Schreiner student, you may choose to remain at Schreiner as a Greystone sophomore, still in line to compete for a slot at your choice of service academies, or you can switch over and become a Schreiner sophomore. You may also use our college placement services to transfer to another college or university.
Q: What if I don't have Foundation Sponsorship - can I still attend Greystone?
A: Greystone welcomes all students - Foundation Sponsored or not. Students who desire to reapply for an academy appointment are encouraged to apply to Greystone.
Q: What is Greystone's class attendance policy?
A: Greystone students are required to attend all scheduled classes unless previous notification is made to the Director and the request is approved.
Q: Where and when can a student purchase textbooks and supplies?
A: Students can buy new and used textbooks and supplies at the Schreiner University Bookstore.
Q: Can Greystone students have a car on campus?
A: Yes, however, it is not recommended. Students have very little time or need for a car during the academic week. What little free time students do have should be dedicated to the pursuit of their goal - entering the academy. There is time and a need for a car after students enter the academy - during their junior and senior year.
Q: Where do I go if I get sick?
A: The Health and Wellness Center is located in the Cailloux Center and open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Q: Is there a charge to use the Health and Wellness Services?
A: The University nurse provides basic first aid and assessment of minor illnesses and injury. There is no charge for these services.
Q: What are the immunization and insurance requirements?
A: All incoming students are encouraged to have current immunizations for Polio, MMR, Meningitis and TB. This information should be submitted to the Health and Wellness Center prior to registration. Additionally, health insurance is required for all Greystone students.
Q: How can my parents contact me in an emergency?
A: For any emergency at any time, call the Director at (443) 822-8918. If unable to contact the Director, contact the Schreiner University Security and Safety Department at (830) 739-1111 and the Security Officer on duty will deliver a message to the student.
Q: Do I need a personal computer?
A: A personal computer is not required at Schreiner. There are computer terminals located in the library, Student Affairs and Fasken Learning Center. Additionally, the University's computer lab maintains 34 computers that students may use for coursework.
Q: What tutorial assistance is available?
A: The Peer Tutor Lab in the Teaching and Learning Center is open Monday - Thursday from 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., operated by a staff of 12-15 trained peer tutors who offer approximately 32 hours per week of free individual help for 60 courses per semester. This is also an internationally certified program affiliated with the College Reading & Learning Association.
Q: When do I get my grades?
A: Students receive their grades at their permanent home address as soon as possible after the end of the term, usually about one week after the final grades are reported to the registrar's office.
