TESTIMONIALS: STUDENT PERSPECTIVES ON SUMMER
BRIDGE
IMAGINE YOURSELF AT SUMMER BRIDGE!
"I was overwhelmed with the transition process to UCSD. I did not know how to sign up for classes, to study for class, to meet people, and so much more. Summer Bridge made that process so much easier. There were always friendly people to help me and friends, 149 of them, to make me feel comfortable going to UCSD. I remember my first day in class, I felt so confident and calm compared to other incoming freshmen. Not only that, I recognized several other Summer Bridge students in class. Especially for commuters, like myself, it is a one in a lifetime opportunity to live away from home. I am speechless about Summer Bridge. The only way to truly understand how powerful Summer Bridge is to be in Summer Bridge."
Thai Do,
Summer Bridge 2008
"My participation in Summer Bridge is undoubtedly one of the best experiences I've ever had. As an incoming freshman as well as a commuter student, I became acquainted with university resources and faculty members, and made wonderful friendships. I was definitely more comfortable and confident beginning at UCSD, and the educational and support services provided by OASIS has truly made a positive difference in my education. My Summer Bridge experience was extremely rewarding and in turn gave me the confidence to become an OASIS student staff member so that I too can make a difference in the lives of students as a workshop facilitator."
Lauren Hassoun,
Summer Bridge 2007
"I would say that Summer Bridge positively impacted my experience at UCSD in many ways. First, I believe it prepared me for life away from home. Although Summer Bridge isn't a long program those few weeks away from home, family, and friends was a bit of a shock. I can say I went through a bit of homesickness but overall when I returned to campus to start school in the fall I didn't feel as homesick, I already had a "feel" of how it would be. Not only did it prepare me for life away from home it also helped my parents adapt a bit to life without me at home. The program not only prepares you for your freshman year it prepares you for your four years here at UCSD. Taking C.I. gives students the ability to learn and see how lectures are conducted. Going to C.I. lecture and discussion shows students how classes work here. Dorming with students from different cultural backgrounds is a great opportunity. There is so much to be learned from one another and so much to be shared."
Bertha Hernandez,
Summer Bridge 2007
"When accepted to the program, you'll have the doors of UCSD's employment pool, academic aid services, and student & faculty networks opened to you. For me, I not only acquired knowledge to succeed in the university but I got a job, tutoring, and friends coming out of the program. Most entering students do not have these opportunities, so enjoy a summer month at UCSD while doing something for your future."
Narciso Marmolejo,
Summer Bridge 2008
"When I was accepted as a winter admit, I thought that it would be very hard to adjust to the campus while
everyone else seemed to have a head-start. But I met many new people during Summer Bridge, who are still my friends today, that have helped me with whatever I needed and filled me in on everything that I missed in the fall! Incoming freshmen should apply to the Summer Bridge program because they will be SO SORRY THAT THEY DIDN'T! :) If I didn't go to Summer Bridge, I would have been totally lost during my first quarter. On my first day of school, I knew exactly what to do, where to go, and who to ask about everything... and Summer Bridge was fun!"
Camille Martin,
Summer Bridge 2007
"Summer Bridge is not just a program that you
participate in and leave behind like an old class, OASIS continues to help you throughout the year and they are willing to help you anytime. It is a safe and friendly place and a privilege to be a part of. AND THERE IS FREE FOOD!"
Johnson Lam,
Summer Bridge 2007
"Summer Bridge was an experience where I found who I am, what I'd like to become, and what I could do to uplift others who do not have access to such programs. My metamorphosis and dedication began, and continues, after my exposure to Summer Bridge and the many resources on campus. A support system is built and maintained through the relationships developed during Summer Bridge. There is not another program here at UCSD that focuses on building community with hopes of change and progress while acknowledging the intersections interwoven into each individual. Summer Bridge is a safe space where students can flourish individually and become stronger as a collective."
Jasmine Phillips,
Summer Bridge 2007
"I would say that Summer Bridge was one of the deciding factors for my high academic achievements here at UCSD. I came from a very poor high school where a great portion of the student body actually commuted to school from across the Tijuana border. Coming from this disadvantaged background I did not have the skills I required to be a successful student at this top university… without Summer Bridge's guidance through OASIS workshops and peer mentor programs I would most likely have burnt myself out over studying in the wrong way and being displeased with my performance on tests. The main reason for my having applied to Summer Bridge was its affordability, it being free, and the exposure I needed to such an environment. Many of the students who are accepted to Summer Bridge come from disadvantaged backgrounds where an environment like UCSD and La Jolla can be overwhelming. The early exposure to these environments allowed me to adjust; I can't imagine trying to adjust to such an environment without peer mentors."
Mohamud Qadi,
Summer Bridge 2007
"Being part of Summer Bridge was definitely a great asset coming into UCSD, it has given me the opportunity to make connections and form lifelong friendships. Every event, meeting, lecture, discussion, panel and gathering was a learning experience that will never be forgotten and have for sure shaped the way I am today. Summer Bridge is a wonderful opportunity that helps you grow intellectually as an individual in many aspects, there is no short answer that can describe all the fun, but challenging moments and events that occur in four weeks."
Jessica Monteon,
Summer Bridge 2007
"Summer Bridge catapulted me into getting involved at UCSD. It has helped direct my passions. For example, through the leadership component, I got involved with KP (Kaibigang Pilipino, a student organization). Through that I became a board member for the organization. My board position helped me explore issues regarding gender and sexuality and the following year I became an intern at the Women's Center. Besides affecting my involvement, Summer Bridge led me to finding a group of friends who work towards the same things that I do… Summer Bridge is a month out of your life that sets the tone for the rest of your college experiece. It sets the tone because it gives you confidence to come here and apply yourself."
Angie Mendoza,
Summer Bridge 2007
CONTACT INFORMATION:
OASIS Transition Program Help Line (858) 534-2801, or email
otp@ucsd.edu
