Innovation on a Dime: Implementing a Cost-Effective Summer Bridge Experience for First-Gen Students

Innovation on a Dime: Implementing a Cost-Effective Summer Bridge Experience for First-Gen Students

How can institutions design a high-impact summer bridge experience for first-generation students without a large budget? This workshop shares lessons learned from Middlesex College’s recent implementation of a cost-effective, 4-day first-gen summer success program that successfully supported student transition, belonging, and academic readiness. Developed with minimal funding, the program leveraged campus partnerships, faculty engagement, peer mentors, and the creative use of existing resources to strengthen first-generation students’ academic readiness, sense of belonging, and confidence as they entered college. Participants will explore practical strategies for designing affordable bridge programs, learn about lessons and outcomes from Middlesex College’s model, and identify adaptable approaches for their own campuses. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas, planning tools, and inspiration to launch or enhance a sustainable first-gen summer bridge program on any budget.