Summer Bridge, a five-week summer experience for entering first-year students, is anchored by a laboratory-based course, Issues in Biology. Student learning is augmented by Supplemental Instruction, a program that teaches study and writing skills and provides individual and group tutorials. A full-time advisor and six St. Olaf biology majors, many of whom are former Summer Bridge students, lead Supplemental Instruction.
Summer Bridge Program participants receive housing, meals, instruction, books, supplies, and one college credit for participating in the biology course. Program features include:
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Orientation to St. Olaf and college life in general
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Writing and Supplemental Instruction (Study skills)
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Biology 121 (Earn a course credit)
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Work opportunities at St. Olaf
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Academic Advising
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Mentoring
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Social and Cultural Activities
- Summer Bridge Review Book
In addition to the academic activities, the Summer Bridge program also offers a number of social events focused on cohort building between the participants. These include field trips to the Twin Cities, canoeing and camping, a variety show, and opening and closing banquets.