Category: Student Summer Bridge Experience

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.

One thing I really did enjoy about the Summer Bridge Program was getting to meet faculty and connect with some of the higher-ups at the university. I think that’s always a valuable experience. Being exposed to all of that, before the big crowds, the heavy workload, and everything else, was really beneficial, I’d say.

Academic preparedness going into the program is a tough one for me to answer. I came in with an associate degree from community college. Some of the topics they covered in the Summer Bridge Program, though I’m not exactly sure what they include now, had changed a bit from what I experienced.

A lot of it was more of a refresher for me, things like developing study habits, managing time effectively, and learning how to use tools like Google Calendar. For me I felt like it was a review, I felt as if this was common sense to me. I’d say this would vary from student to student. But, Google Calendar has been a lifesaver. I practically use it for everything.

In terms of networking and professional development, it really did make a difference. I had opportunities to meet faculty and other key people in the university. Which opened up doors for internships and research. That kind of exposure helped me build connections that I might not have made otherwise.

I also want to mention Dr. Gersie, he was a huge support for me. I reached out to him around the middle of my first semester, and we set up a few meetings. Catching up with him was really helpful. He showed me that the administrative side of the university is actually very supportive, and that there are resources available if you know where to look.

He pointed me in the right direction, especially when it came to finding help and support. Things like financial aid or general student services that a lot of people either don’t know about or feel hesitant to ask for. And in doing so, he helped not just me, but also some of my friends who were struggling with those same barriers. He showed us how to advocate for ourselves and find the support we need.

My advice to new Michigan Tech students in the Summer Bridge Program, especially considering how the program has changed, is to take full advantage of the opportunities to build relationships. Even if the academic content doesn’t feel new or challenging. The program offers a great chance to meet faculty, staff, and peers who can support you throughout your time here.

Be open to asking questions, even if you feel like you should already know the answers. You’re not expected to have it all figured out. And if you’re coming in without any college experience, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Everyone’s starting point is different, and the program is there to help level the playing field. Use it to build your confidence, learn how to navigate campus resources, and set yourself up for success both academically and professionally.

I know it can feel like a lot to take in, so take your time. But if I had to give one piece of advice to a new Michigan Tech student in the Summer Bridge Program, whether you’re coming in with some college experience like I did, or it’s your very first time stepping into higher education, I’d say: take it day by day.

This is a unique experience, and you won’t get another one like it. Unless you’re planning to stay on campus for future summers, this is one of the few times you’ll have this kind of freedom and space to explore before things really ramp up. Yes, there’s a schedule, but it’s manageable. Use this time to your advantage.

One of the most valuable parts of the program is the access you get to mentors and faculty. I keep coming back to that point because it truly matters. People like Dr. Minerick and Dr. Jarvie-Eggart are incredible resources. Not only are they approachable, but they also have connections to research opportunities. If you’re even slightly interested in research, talk to them. Ask if they can keep you in mind or point you in the right direction. That kind of networking early on can really open doors.

Also, remember that whether you’re brand new to college or just new to this campus, it’s okay to not know everything. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek advice, and learn from others. Getting familiar with your surroundings and knowing who to go to for help can make a huge difference in your success. The worst thing you can do is try to figure it all out alone and end up struggling. Take the support that’s offered. It’s there for a reason.

The benefits of the Summer Bridge program for a student thinking about joining Michigan Tech, I’d say it really comes down to early exposure and opportunity. Whether you already have some college experience or you’re brand new to it, the program gives you a head start, especially in learning how to navigate campus, meet faculty and staff, and build a support system before the full semester begins.

You get time to adjust without the pressure of a full course load, and that makes a big difference. The structure of the program helps you develop good habits like time management, organization, and how to seek out help when you need it. Plus, you get to meet other students early on, which makes the transition feel a lot less overwhelming.

Getting to campus early through the Summer Bridge program is such a great opportunity. First off, the weather in the U.P. During the summer it is beautiful, some of the best you’ll get all year. This summer might’ve been good for the most part, but generally, it’s a great time to explore and enjoy the area before winter hits.

If you’re open to arriving a month early, I’d say go for it. It’s a chance to experience something new, new people, new surroundings, and a different pace of life. Honestly, why not? You only live once. Take the opportunity and make the most of it.

Now, I know some people might join the program mainly for the scholarship, and I totally get that, college is expensive. But I’d still tell anyone: it’s worth it beyond just the financial support. Getting to campus early gave me a real head start. I was already familiar with the layout of campus, I knew where all my classes were, and I didn’t have that first-week confusion a lot of other students had. While some of my friends were still trying to figure out where buildings were, I already knew my way around, thanks to the program.

There were also fun activities, like the campus bingo scavenger hunt, which I really enjoyed. I think they still do things like that around Orientation Week, so new students get to explore campus in a fun and interactive way. It might be part of orientation now, but either way, it’s a great intro to Michigan Tech.

If I had to share one last thing, it’s this: enjoy the experience. Have fun with your Summer Bridge group, take in the beauty of the U.P. while it’s not covered in snow—because once winter hits, it’s here for a while! You can still enjoy the winter and there are still fun things to do! But really, enjoy the freedom and opportunities that come with being here early. It’ll make your transition into college life that much smoother.

My experience with the Summer Bridge Program, I’d tell students that having the chance to be on campus early was an incredible opportunity. It gave me a head start in so many ways, learning how to get around, understanding building acronyms, and just feeling more confident navigating the whole environment. That early exposure made it easier to connect with others, help fellow students who were still figuring things out, and even discover the best study spots on campus. On top of that, learning about metacognition during the program really helped me prepare academically. It gave me insight into how I learn best, especially when it came to math, and made me more aware of how to approach studying in college.

When someone asks how the program helped support my academic preparedness for Michigan Tech. I always bring up the metacognition course. It wasn’t just about academics, it was about learning how to learn. We explored new study strategies and took time to reflect on our individual learning styles, which helped me shift my approach. What made it even more meaningful was that the lectures often tied into real-life situations, and everyone brought different experiences to the table. That created a real sense of community.

Math had always been one of my biggest academic challenges, but the three-week refresher course before the semester started made a huge difference. Lincoln, one of the former peer mentors, had a way of explaining things that really clicked for me. That boost in confidence actually helped me turn around and support others who were struggling too. In helping them, I was reinforcing my own understanding and that kind of peer support made the learning environment even stronger.

The advice I would give to new Michigan Tech students participating in the Summer Bridge Program, I’d say: be open. Be open to new people, different experiences, and unexpected conversations. If you meet someone interesting or connect with someone new, don’t let the moment past, follow up, build that connection. That openness led to some of my most meaningful friendships.

Also, since I was the only one in my family who went far from home for college (my sisters stayed much closer), the program pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. That said, one thing I wish I had known before starting was just how much I’d miss home. I definitely took it for granted. The time between the start of the semester and Thanksgiving felt endless at times, I was so homesick. So, my other piece of advice is: appreciate the little things, your family, your friends, the comfort of home-cooked meals, while you have them. But also embrace the freedom that comes with this new chapter. It’s a time for growth, learning, and a lot of fun if you let yourself enjoy it.

When someone’s thinking about joining the Summer Bridge Program and wants to know the benefits, I always talk about the strong sense of community. Because the cohort is small, it’s easy to form real, lasting connections. We’d hang out in Wadsworth all the time, playing games, talking, just enjoying being around each other. Since I was missing home, I started cooking some of the meals that reminded me of my mom’s cooking. The smell would drift down the hall, and pretty soon people would pop in, asking, “What’s that smell?” I’d put on music, bring out my speaker, and suddenly there’d be a whole group gathered around while I made quesadillas.

That kind of community-building wasn’t just fun, it was powerful. It helped ease the homesickness and made campus feel more like home. And honestly, it helped all of us grow—not just academically, but personally. The Summer Bridge Program wasn’t just a head start for college; it was the beginning of something much bigger. I truly believe it set the foundation for my success at Michigan Tech.

Before coming to Michigan Tech, I honestly worried I wouldn’t have the close friendships I enjoyed back in high school. But the Summer Bridge Program allowed me to meet people in a relaxed, small-group setting, which made connecting so much easier. I’ve always found it simpler to build relationships that way rather than being thrown into a big crowd. So yes, the program definitely helped me feel more comfortable socially and gave me a strong sense of community before the semester even started.

The Summer Bridge Program significantly helped me support my academic preparedness for Michigan Tech. The metacognition course proved one of the most helpful parts because it focused on building essential academic skills. It taught us how to study more effectively, manage our time, and even prioritize sleep. Getting that kind of guidance early on helped me create healthy habits from the beginning. We also had summer math classes with Lincoln and Kylie, which made a big difference. I started in pre-calc, and since that class came more easily to me, I was able to focus more on tougher subjects like chemistry once the fall semester started. This better managed my workload.

My advice to students participating in the Summer Bridge Program to take full advantage of the opportunities offered. I know networking or putting yourself out there can feel intimidating at first, but opportunities like professor meet-and-greets are incredibly valuable. That’s actually how I met my research advisor, and that connection ended up making a big impact on my academic path. So don’t be afraid to reach out, ask for help, and start building those relationships early. One thing I wish I’d known beforehand is how important those small moments can be. Sometimes the most casual conversations lead to the biggest opportunities.

If someone thinking about joining the Summer Bridge Program at Michigan Tech asked about the benefits, I’d tell them that one of the biggest advantages is how it helps you build a support system before the semester even begins. Making friends early takes a lot of the social pressure off once classes start, and having people around you who are going through the same things makes navigating challenges easier. You also get a chance to build strong academic habits and access resources before the full semester workload kicks in. All of that helps make the transition into college life feel way more manageable.

How I’d describe my experience with the Summer Bridge Program, I would tell students it was absolutely foundational to my college journey. The program took place during the summer before classes officially started, and it gave me a head start in adjusting to college life. It introduced me to the campus, the resources, and, most importantly, to people who have since become some of my closest friends. One of the highlights was getting to meet Dr. Minerick. She’s been an incredible support system ever since. That kind of connection really made a difference for me. I won’t lie, at first, the program was challenging, especially with the early mornings and heavy schedule. But looking back, I’m grateful for how it pushed me.

When I think about how the program helped support my academic preparedness for Michigan Tech, I realize how important the structure was. We had classes starting at 8 a.m., which felt rough at first, but it forced us to adapt to a college-like routine even before the semester began. That early start helped me develop good habits, waking up early, managing my time, staying on top of assignments. Which all made the transition into the fall semester much smoother. It really helped me shake off the “summer fog” and step into college life with more confidence and discipline.

If I were giving advice to new Michigan Tech students participating in the Summer Bridge Program, I’d definitely say: trust the process. It might feel overwhelming at first, especially with courses like summer math and Med Achieve—but there’s a reason behind the intensity. I remember wondering why I was doing math in the middle of summer, but once the school year started, it all made sense. I felt like I was a step ahead because I had already experienced the structure and pace of college classes. One thing I wish I had known before starting is that it’s okay to feel challenged. That discomfort is part of the growth, and it pays off.

To a student who’s thinking about joining the Summer Bridge Program at Michigan Tech, I’d explain that the benefits go far beyond academics. The program gave me a strong head start, not just in classes, but socially and emotionally too. By the time orientation rolled around, I felt like I had already been part of the campus community for a while. I knew where things were, I had met faculty members, and I felt comfortable navigating college life. I even walked into my Biomedical Engineering intro session already knowing every professor in the room because I’d interacted with them during the program. It gave me a level of confidence that made a huge difference in my first year.