Free, week-long introduction prepares students for their first year of college

Indiana University Northwest invites all incoming students enrolled in the Fall 2022 semester to get a jumpstart on college with its week-long Summer Bridge program taking place on Monday, August 15 through Thursday, August 18 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Friday, August 19 from 2 to 6 p.m. It will be held in-person on the IU Northwest campus and also include off-campus field trips.

The goal of Summer Bridge is to help students prepare for college classes, explore new interests, gain confidence, and form connections with fellow students, peer mentors, and faculty.

Students will explore different degree programs and career paths by participating in hands-on activities and field trips in business, arts and humanities, and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The week will end with a "Student Showcase" and special group event (picnic, field trip, or other group activity).

Kris Huysken, associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences and Summer Bridge organizer, said “The goal is for students to feel inspired and to develop deeper connections, both to IU Northwest, and their own educational paths. This is more critical than ever for our students who are beginning their collegiate academic journey.”

She added, “Throughout the week, students will work and learn together. Whether measuring water quality in local rivers and lagoons, constructing original theatrical performance pieces, or developing a sustainable business idea, students will collaborate to create something new and original, and share their scholarship with others.”

This year marks the addition of a business-oriented summer bridge that will serve students entering the School of Business and Economics. Future plans are in the works to expand the program to even more disciplines and programs.

Financial incentives

Students who successfully complete Summer Bridge will earn a $250 credit to help pay for books for their first year at IU Northwest. They will also have the option to earn a college credit for their bridge experience.

Summer Bridge is free and open to all incoming students, but space is limited. Register at iun.edu/coas-summer-bridge/.