The Summer Bridge Program

Inclusive by Design. Transformative by Nature.

Ohio Wesleyan's free, three-week Summer Bridge Program offers academic credit while equipping first-year students with critical thinking skills essential for college success. This leadership-focused residential experience embraces diverse perspectives to develop tomorrow's inclusive leaders. This Summer Bridge Program welcomes all incoming OWU students. Additionally, incoming students who identify as first-generation, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, those who are neurodiverse, and those from historically underrepresented backgrounds have voiced finding value in our leadership curriculum. Those who do not hold those identities have voiced an increase in understanding of folks different from them, a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue, and found ways to tear down walls and build bridges.

All of our participants gain confidence and learn to leverage their unique perspectives, accessing vital campus resources while developing the leadership competencies needed in our global society. Through this program, we cultivate tomorrow's leaders who understand that organizational excellence stems from diverse representation and inclusive leadership practices.

Benefits of the Summer Bridge Program:

• Students start fall semester with academic credit hours
• Attend workshops geared to their academic success and personal development (examples: including self-awareness, time-management, communication, research methods, social justice, and healthy relationships)
• Become familiar with campus resources and services
• Celebrate the "Small Wins" throughout your first-year experience
• Connect with other students, faculty and staff
• Connection to the Delaware and Columbus, OH areas
• Develop life-long friendship
• Develop successful time management skills
• Required (Free) Trip
  • Flint, MI – Topic: Water (2018 | 2019)
  • Richmond, VA - Topic: History (2021 | 2022)
  • Louisville, KY – Topic: Sports and Capitalism (2023 | 2024 | 2025)
  • Detroit, MI – Topic: Music, Culture and Capitalism (2026 | 2027)

The Summer Bridge Program is Completely Free!

The Division of Student Success & Engagement provides comprehensive coverage for housing, food, and select social activities. Students and families are only expected to pay for personal items and transportation to campus.

Mandatory Attendance Dates:

•         Bridge Scholar Move-In: July 19

•         Classwork Start: July 20

•         Fall Room Move-In: August 11

Housing & Meals

Under the guidance of junior and senior peer mentors, students will share a residence hall and enjoy an authentic OWU experience. As a participant, you will also have the chance to enter your permanent residence hall before first-year students often do. Throughout the program, all meals are provided.