Saturday College

Thanks to a grant from the Jolley Foundation (see the newsletter for more), the Bridges to a Brigther Future Saturday College program is just about to start! Some of you may be wondering what this expansion of Bridges is all about. To shed some light on this exciting new initiative, we once again turn to the words of program director Tobi Swartz:

The Bridges to a Brighter Future Saturday College is an expansion of the current four-week summer program. Although the current summer residential program makes a significant difference in these students’ lives, Bridges finds it increasingly difficult to overcome the difficulties that these students face daily. As negative influences increase, so does the need for consistent and ongoing support. Saturday College will provide much-needed year-round reinforcement and services. The Saturday College program will consist of nine meeting dates held once a month throughout the year at Furman University. Each session will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 1:00 p.m. Our goals are to further increase students’ academic and personal success; keep students focused on the goals they have set for themselves; and to identify student challenges as they develop, in order to provide opportunities for intervention before problems magnify and become insurmountable. These goals will be met by providing:
· Intensive tutoring in:
o Math (Algebra, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus and Calculus);
o English (Writing, Grammar, Essays, Research Reporting, etc.);
o Social Studies (Reading Comprehension, Memorization, Writing, etc.); and
o Science (Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science)
· Academic success and college planning workshops such as:
o Time Management, Study Skills, Effective Test Preparation, and Note-taking Strategies; and
o Completing College Applications and Financial Aid, Writing College Essays, and Determining the Right College Fit.
· Mentoring by Furman and community leaders:
o The Saturday College will provide a consistent location and time to establish mentoring relationships. Mentors will be invited to lunch each Saturday.
· Emotional support and strengthened friendships with Bridges classmates and staff.

This program is the largest expansion in the history of Bridges. Saturday College starts in just one month, so stay tuned for more information as it gets closer.