History of the Bridge Program
The Bridge Program began as the first learning community at Mt. San Antonio College, originally known as the Student Success Summer Academy. The beginning foundation for this program was initiated in 1997, but first became available to students for the summer term of 1998. The purpose of the program was to help students who just graduated from high school and prepare them for the rest of their journey in higher education. The first class in 1998 consisted of 82 students. These first-time college students experienced obstacles due to socio-economic and academic issues, but were given the support and the tools needed to overcome these challenges through the Student Success Summer Academy. Courses that were offered, were basic skills writing and counseling courses. They also had to participate in a "community" class. The Student Success Summer Academy also offered great support from counselors, peer advisors, tutors, and other staff. The success rate for the summer term of 1998 was 96%.
Today, the Bridge Program celebrates 19 years of success, and continues to assist students transition from high school to college, through the Summer Bridge Program, the English Bridge and Math Bridge learning communities offered in the fall and spring semesters. We serve over 350 students in the summer and over 500 students each semester.
