Program Overview

Introduction to the Summer Bridge Program

The Summer Bridge Program at Ohio Wesleyan University is a free, three-week residential experience that offers academic credit and equips first-year students with critical thinking skills essential for college success. This leadership-focused program embraces diverse perspectives to develop tomorrow's inclusive leaders.

Program Details

The Summer Bridge Program welcomes all incoming OWU students, with a special emphasis on historically marginalized populations. The program provides a comprehensive experience, including:

• Academic credit hours
• Workshops geared towards academic success and personal development, such as self-awareness, time-management, communication, research methods, social justice, and healthy relationships
• Familiarization with campus resources and services
• Celebration of "Small Wins" throughout the first-year experience
• Connection with other students, faculty, and staff
• Development of life-long friendships
• Successful time management skills

Benefits of the Summer Bridge Program

The program offers numerous benefits, including:

• Starting the fall semester with academic credit hours
• Access to vital campus resources
• Development of leadership competencies needed in a global society
• Cultivation of tomorrow's leaders who understand that organizational excellence stems from diverse representation and inclusive leadership practices

Program Structure

The program includes a required trip, which has been held in various locations, including:

• Flint, MI (2018, 2019)
• Richmond, VA (2021, 2022)
• Louisville, KY (2023, 2024, 2025)
• Detroit, MI (2026, 2027) These interactive and immersive trips are designed to help scholars apply the knowledge learned in the classroom in a practical setting.

Accommodations

The program fully covers lodging, food, and program-related social activities. Scholars are required to stay on campus during the duration of the program and will be housed in a residence hall. Roommates will be chosen for the scholars to create a diverse network of relationships.

Academics and Program Content

The program includes a college-level course that explores the relationship between race, gender, sexual orientation, and athletics as it relates to Black-centered civic engagement and activism in a capitalist society. A typical day consists of a half-day spent concentrating on academic pursuits and a half-day spent participating in co-curricular activities to advance knowledge and skills.

Important Dates

• Sunday, July 19: Move-in day for Bridge Mentors
• Monday, July 20 - Friday, July 24: Bridge Mentor Training
• Sunday, July 26: Move-in day for Bridge Students
• Tuesday, August 18: Everyone moves into fall room assignments

Policies and Expectations

Scholars are expected to commit to the entire Summer Bridge Program and are not permitted to leave the campus or the trip without explicit consent from the program directors. Guests or visitors are not permitted during the program, and violation of this policy may result in removal from the program.