Statistics have consistently shown that students who attend summer bridge programs complete more units, achieve higher grade point averages, have lower drop-out rates, and have higher graduation rates than similar students who do not attend such programs. After completing these programs, students are more confident and self-assured. At the risk of being vague, I learned everything. Entering this program, I knew next to nothing and now leaving, I know who to ask for, where to look, which ones I'm interested in, where they are, what I will do, and why certain programs are critical to my college experience and career." -Rocket Booster Bridge Participant, Summer 2023 APPLY NOW Purpose The Rocket Booster Bridge Program will be held July 14th through the 25th on the campus of UAH and is designed to smooth the transition from high school to college. The Rocket Booster Bridge program aims to increase the quality and quantity of students successfully completing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) baccalaureate degrees at UAH. Our program is an excellent opportunity for entering students to strengthen their academic skills, develop a peer support network, and familiarize themselves with the campus and its resources. This program complements the University’s general new student orientation experience, Charger Camp, by introducing Bridge students to specific faculty, staff, students, and other resources in and around campus. Participants will receive invaluable information on specific campus services, programs, and local resources to enhance a student’s transition to campus and community life. This will be accomplished while having a memorable time building relationships. It gave a realistic trial run of college by living in the dorms, having to keep track of time to walk across campus in time for activities, giving us time management, study, mental health and communication strategies for the packed, difficult, stressful, and new environment we will be put in. It also got us used to campus facilities and buildings." -Rocket Booster Bridge Participant, Summer 2023 Eligibility Must: Be admitted to UAH and enrolled in Fall 2025 classes. Indicated they would major in a discipline in the College of Engineering or Science. ACT of 24 or 3.5 High School GPA in Math/Science/English. And at least one: Attended a Title I high school Not taken any AP science or math courses Not taken Calculus First-generation college student Pell-eligible From a rural community Program Goals By the end of the Summer Bridge Program, students should be able to: Have a greater self-awareness as a student scholar. Have a realistic understanding of university-level course expectations. Have knowledge of the University resources necessary to navigate first-year challenges Develop a greater understanding of inter-group relations. Have a sense of camaraderie with their cohort ...I feel much more confident about coming to campus this fall. I feel more acquainted with campus and the structure of classes, and I have learned many things about the resources available to help us succeed. “ -Rocket Booster Bridge Participant, Summer 2023 Application Process The application for Rocket Booster Bridge is now open. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis through mid-May. Program staff will review applications to determine program eligibility and invite eligible applicants to participate in a 30 minute virtual interview. Interviews will be conducted from mid-May to early June. Program staff will fill the 30 participant slots based on interviewer feedback. Invitations will be sent to selected participants in early June. APPLY NOW Questions? Contact rocketbridge@uah.edu.