C.O.R.E. summer program helps new students make college transition

By Eric Reikowski, media relations assistant

Oakland University administrators are rolling out a valuable program to help newly admitted students make a successful transition to college. Spearheaded by OU’s Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI), the C.O.R.E. Summer Bridge Program aims to provide incoming freshmen with the resources necessary to embark on a firm path toward graduation.

With a focus on underrepresented students, particularly African-American and Latino students, this innovative and free program is part of a broad effort to support diversity on campus and engage students from urban settings, according to CMI Director Omar Brown-El.

"Our goal is to provide freshman students with accelerated learning opportunities to reduce the adjustment and transition period from high school to college,” Brown-El explained.

Program participants will reside on campus during the week of July 18-22 and will receive 10 hours each of college-level math and reading instruction. Food services will be provided and current OU students will be on hand to offer tips and answer questions about campus life, academics and support services. A variety of social events and activities are planned for the evenings.

C.O.R.E., which stands for Collectively Oakland Retains Everyone, is a collaborative effort between several university departments. A dedicated team of professionals from OU's Academic Skills Center, Advising Resource Center, Office of Financial Aid, Office of Undergraduate Admissions and University Housing will work together to coordinate the program and address student needs. The program is funded through the Office of the Senior Associate Provost.

Additionally, CMI staff members will act as a support system to C.O.R.E. participants during the academic year.

“All participants will meet with the program coordinator and a peer mentor during their first year to address any academic or social needs,” said Brown-El. “CMI also will provide space for mandatory study hours for all participants.

While registration is filling up fast, Brown-El added that the program still has spots available. For additional information or to register, view the website, call (248) 370-4404 or e-mail cmi@oakland.edu.