YSU adds STEM to Summer Bridge Program

Staff report

Youngstown

Youngstown State University’s annual Summer Bridge Program, which has been successful in improving retention and graduation rates for multicultural students, continues next week with a new component for students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The free, weeklong program, which runs Sunday to Friday, brings a group of freshmen multicultural students to campus every summer to take classes, learn about the university and stay in the Cafaro House residence hall — all aimed at giving students a head start on academic and campus life before classes officially start in late August.

Jonelle Beatrice, associate executive director of Student Life and director of the Marion J. Resch Center for Student Progress, said the program has proven to provide a significant positive impact on students staying enrolled and graduating.

“The idea is to get these students off to a good start in their college lives so they can be successful both in and out of the classroom,” said Mike Beverly, senior coordinator of CSP Multicultural Student Services.

This year, 34 first-year students are registered to participate.

They will take classes on how to be successful in the classroom (i.e., time management, test- and note-taking techniques, etc.) and attend workshops on academic support services offered by YSU (i.e., Center for Student Progress, the Writing Center, Reading and Study Skills Center, etc.).

“The expectations for college are significantly higher than for high school,” Beatrice said.

“Learning to manage your time more efficiently, and seeking support services when needed can affect students’ future success.”

Also, for the first time this year, 11 of the 34 students will participate in Summer Bridge programming specifically for students studying STEM disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The STEM component is funded through a grant from the Raymond John Wean Foundation.

Beatrice emphasized that Summer Bridge does not end after one week.

The Bridge and Beyond program extends into the regular academic year, creating a learning community where students take classes together and meet monthly throughout their freshmen year.

For more information about the summer program, visit http://web.ysu.edu/gen/ysu/Summer_Bridge_m1530.html or call Beverly at 330-941-3538.