My Summer Bridge experience was really positive. I felt very welcomed, especially seeing others who came from similar backgrounds or had faced similar struggles. We were all there on a scholarship. Many of us were first-generation students, managing bills and responsibilities that our parents might not be able to help with. That shared understanding created a sense of connection, it was comforting to be part of a small cohort where everyone was in the same boat. In terms of race and being part of a minority group, it was also meaningful to be surrounded by people who could relate to those experiences. Overall, the program opened up a lot of opportunities for me. That’s actually why I’m here now, I’m currently doing an internship in one of the labs. It was definitely a great experience.
The Metacognition course really impacted me. It helped shift our mindset from just studying to get an A, to truly learning in a way that we could apply to real-life situations. That mindset shift was one of the most valuable takeaways. It gave more purpose to why we’re pursuing a degree, it’s not just about earning a diploma, but about the knowledge we build over time.
The math preparation course also helped a lot. It served as a great warm-up before diving into the actual math classes in the fall. Having early morning classes during Summer Bridge, like from 8 a.m. to noon, was especially beneficial. It helped build stamina and made it easier to adjust to early classes in the fall semester. Compared to other students who didn’t go through the summer program, the transition was a lot smoother for us.
My biggest piece of advice for new Michigan Tech students would be “don’t be shy”. Everyone’s in the same position as you. It’s everyone’s first time, and everyone’s here for the same reason, to get a strong start. There’s no “wrong” way to go through the Summer Bridge experience.
Take advantage of the mentors, both students and faculty. They’re there to guide you and help you stay on the right path. Network with your peers and the staff. Don’t hesitate to get your name out there. It’s never too early to start building those connections.
As for one thing I wish I had known before starting: Just how supportive the community would be. Knowing that might have made me feel less nervous going in.
Transitioning from the Summer Bridge program to the full Michigan Tech student body can definitely feel like a culture shock. You quickly realize that you may be in the minority, whether that’s in terms of race, gender, or background. At the start of the semester, I personally felt pretty isolated. The Bridge students were spread out across different dorms, and once classes started, everyone got busy and it was harder to stay connected.
So, I’d say it’s important to be prepared for that shift. Stay in touch with the friends you made during the Summer Bridge program, but also don’t be afraid to branch out and meet new people. Join clubs, explore campus events, find ways to stay involved outside of just academics. It’s really important to maintain a balance between schoolwork and the things you enjoy. That balance helps make the experience feel more meaningful and less overwhelming.
The benefits of this Summer Bridge Program are huge. I’d describe it as giving you a real head start, not just academically, but socially and personally as well. It helps you get comfortable with the college environment before the fall semester begins. You start learning how to interact with faculty, how to take advantage of office hours, and how to manage your coursework effectively.
It also helps with networking and stepping out of your comfort zone. Since you begin in a smaller group, it’s less overwhelming than jumping straight into a large university setting. That smaller setting allows you to build real relationships with your professors and mentors. It’s not exactly one-on-one, but being in a group of 12 instead of a lecture hall of 100 makes a big difference. Professors are more likely to remember your name, your face, and where they met you, which helps create lasting connections.
On top of academics, the program offers workshops that are super valuable for life outside the classroom. Whether it’s learning about study abroad opportunities, how to do your taxes, registering to vote, or just navigating adult responsibilities, the program teaches you how to function more independently. It’s not just about being a good student, it’s also about growing into a capable adult, and I think that’s one of the most important takeaways.