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.