Day: January 27, 2026

Here is what Alma Sanchez, Janelly’s Mother, had to say about how the S-STEM Scholar Program and Summer Bridge helped transition Janelly into Michigan Tech.

At first, I didn’t know much about the program, but from what I’ve heard, it’s very good and helps students start a new chapter in university. Students often arrive with some questions and worries, so the program helps them get settled in.

Well, at first I was very nervous because it’s my only daughter who’s going, and it seemed very far away. I didn’t know how she was going to manage on her own, and I was worried. However, as time passed, I saw that she was doing well and was focused on her academics, and that helped me feel better and calm down.

What truly calmed me down was seeing the program help Janelly. I see her as more mature, focused, and determined now, and seeing how she has been able to handle everything reassured me. Seeing how she’s grown, not just as a student but as a young woman, I’ve been really proud of what she’s accomplished.

Janelly has shared a lot with me. Every time she’s going to do something, whether it’s traveling or starting a new chapter. From what I hear, she’s been getting into new opportunities, which has been the best part of the program. I haven’t heard many negative aspects; from what I hear, the program has helped her a lot and has been going well.

When it’s the first time your child goes far away, it’s scary. But as parents, we must give them the benefit of the doubt and understand that they are starting their own careers, education, and preparing their future. As parents, we did our best to prepare them, and it’s time to let them go on their own, making sure we always support them in their decisions. Michigan Tech seems like a good school with good opportunities, so it was easy to know she would be in good hands.

Here is what Steve Ingles, Will’s father, had to say about how the S-STEM Scholar Program and Summer Bridge helped transition Will into Michigan Tech.

Initially what drew me in was the financial funding but I didn’t think we would qualify for it. Will’s initial Student Aid Index (SAI) was well above the Pell Grant eligibility requirement. However, due to special circumstances reported to the financial aid office, we were able to lower Michigan Tech’s institutional Student Aid Index (SAI) enough for Will to qualify for a Pell Grant. I also liked the format of the program’s essay question, which focused on personal attributes and the idea that everyone brings something valuable to the table, not just good grades and a list of awards and activities.

The nine-hour distance from home was a concern, particularly if an emergency required me to get there quickly. The fact that most of the students are from far away and that Michigan Tech’s support staff are experienced in assisting students when issues arise gave me a sense of comfort that I would not have at most other universities. Will living alone for the first time, managing his time effectively, and being socially active and accepted were among my other concerns.

The Summer Bridge and S-STEM program addressed these concerns. They allowed Will to move onto campus before the rest of the incoming class and get a lay of the land. Furthermore, the Bridge program’s work on time management and the math review put him in the best position to get off to a good start, allowing him to form friendships with his cohort and build mentor relationships with the S-STEM instructors.

Will told me directly that the S-STEM Bridge Program over the summer made all the difference. It not only gave him confidence going into the semester but also taught him how to manage his time so assignments get done on schedule and showed him where to find the right resources on campus when he needs them.

My biggest concern about Will attending Michigan Tech was the distance from home and whether he would be able to handle things on his own without my help. I can confidently say that, with the support system provided by Michigan Tech and the S-STEM faculty and staff, I sleep soundly at night knowing he is safe and at the right university for his academic, career, and social interests.