Pitt Summer Program July 13-18 Prepares High School Students for College

PITTSBURGH—More than 70 high school students—coming from 14 states and India—will arrive on the University of Pittsburgh campus July 13 for the inaugural session of The Bridge: College Prep and Leadership Academy. The program will run through July 18.

This dynamic summer program, which focuses on leadership and preparation for the college application process, is designed to help rising high school juniors and seniors prepare for their future. While many summer programs center on academics or athletics, The Bridge equips students with the tools needed to be a successful and engaged college student.

Through The Bridge program, students will gain a competitive edge in navigating the college application and admissions process. The goal is for students to be accepted into the college or university of their choice and to develop their leadership skills, which will help them to maximize their collegiate experiences.

Kathy Humphrey, vice provost and dean of students at Pitt, is confident that the outcomes of the program will extend beyond getting into college. “It is our hope that this college preparation and leadership development will not only help participants get into the college of their choice but stay through graduation,” says Humphrey.

To assist in the application process, the program will provide preparation for standardized testing, writing personal statements for college applications, and performing well during interviews. The Bridge has partnered with Kaplan Test Prep to provide college admissions standardized test training.

To build students’ leadership development, The Bridge will hold sessions on such topics as creative problem solving, the value of service, building self-awareness, setting goals, and conflict management. Most of these leadership sessions include the same programming used in Pitt’s Emerging Leaders Program offered through the Division of Student Affairs.

Along with college prep and leadership development, students will participate in team building activities, field games, and evening social activities to generate bonds with other participants. These activities are designed to engage the students’ overall mental, emotional, and physical wellness.

“It is always our goal to provide the best college experience in the world,” says Humphrey. “The Bridge program is taking what we do best with our undergrads to ensure high school students will not only be successful, but that they will be significant members at whatever college or university they choose.”

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