Program Overview

Introduction to the Bison Bridge Program

The Bison Bridge program is a free 3-day experience designed to support local first-year students who are first-generation or have a high financial need, attending North Dakota State University (NDSU) beginning fall 2026. The program aims to help students transition from high school to college by introducing them to the NDSU experience and facilitating the development of important connections.

Program Details

• Program Dates: August 18, 19, and 20
• Eligibility: First-generation or high financial need, first-year students to be enrolled at NDSU
• Definition of First-Generation College Student: A student whose parent/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor's degree
• Benefits:
  • Learn to navigate campus and develop a sense of community and belonging
  • Engage with new NDSU students and build friendships before classes begin
  • Get paired with a peer mentor
  • Have all book fees waived for fall and spring semesters through Bison Ready
  • Become familiar with NDSU academic resources and support services, including:
    • ACE Tutoring
    • Center for Accessibility
    • Career and Advising Center
    • Center for Writers
    • Counseling Center
    • Financial Aid and Scholarships
    • Information Technology
    • One Stop
    • NDSU Libraries
    • Rising Scholars Program
    • TRIO Student Support Services
    • Wellness Center

Program Impacts

The Bison Bridge program helps students build community, develop a sense of belonging, gain confidence in their transition to college, and connect to campus with increased knowledge of resources to maximize their college experience. Key outcomes include:

• 96% of participants made connections with other students they plan to stay in contact with
• Participants feel a sense of belonging in the program
• Participants feel more confident about their transition to NDSU
• Participants learned about at least one resource they plan to visit during their first semester

Participant Testimonials

• "I gained friends and a much better understanding of where to go for classes and what college life will be like in general."
• "I really loved this experience. There was never a day where I didn't feel good about coming to this event. I loved everything about it, from all the opportunities I had to speak to advisors, to all the friends I made, and especially the information I learned about NDSU."
• "I really enjoyed meeting all the people on campus so I feel more prepared when I start school."