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."

North Dakota State University

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Overview:

North Dakota State University (NDSU) is a public, land-grant, research university located in Fargo, North Dakota. It is a top-ranked R1 institution, known for its commitment to student-focused learning and its dedication to research. NDSU provides affordable access to an excellent education that combines teaching and research in a rich learning environment.

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Services Offered:

The university offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Admission:

NDSU provides comprehensive admission services, including application assistance, financial aid information, and campus visits.

Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.

Campus Life:

NDSU provides a vibrant campus life with various co-curricular activities, dining services, residence life options, and athletic events.

Student Support:

NDSU offers support services such as career advising, counseling, and wellness resources.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU provides ample research opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.

Online Programs:

NDSU offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in various co-curricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and sports. The university also provides a variety of dining options, residence halls, and recreational facilities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Affordable Education:

NDSU offers an excellent education at an affordable price.

Research Opportunities:

NDSU is a research-intensive university, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Hands-on Learning:

NDSU emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields.

Strong Faculty:

NDSU has a strong faculty committed to teaching and mentoring students.

Vibrant Campus Life:

NDSU offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community.

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Academic Programs:

NDSU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Agriculture and Biological Systems:

NDSU is a leading institution in agriculture and biological systems, with strong programs in areas such as animal science, plant science, and biotechnology.

Engineering and Architecture:

NDSU offers a variety of engineering and architecture programs, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture.

Health Sciences:

NDSU has a strong presence in health sciences, with programs in areas such as nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Humanities and Social Sciences:

NDSU offers a variety of humanities and social sciences programs, including English, history, and political science.

Business and Economics:

NDSU has a strong business and economics program, with programs in areas such as accounting, finance, and marketing.

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Other:

NDSU is committed to diversity and inclusion, and it offers a variety of resources and programs to support students from diverse backgrounds. The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.