C.O.R.E. program seeks to ease transition for freshman students

More than 40 students participated in the C.O.R.E. Summer Bridge Program, an initiative to help incoming freshman make a successful college transition.

More than 40 incoming freshman recently took part in the inaugural edition of Oakland University’s C.O.R.E. Summer Bridge Program, an initiative designed to help first-year students make a successful college transition.

From July 18-22, participants resided on campus and received college-level math and reading instruction from Exam Experts, a tutoring agency. Students were pre- and post-tested in the areas of reading, language, intermediate mathematics and algebra. Test results showed a significant improvement in student progress, according to Omar Brown-El, director of the Center for Multicultural Initiatives.

“The scores showed an overall increase of 20 percent between pre- and post-testing,” said Brown-El. Students learned about strengths and weaknesses, met new friends and made valuable connections with staff members. Everything we had hoped for in terms of goals, we achieved.” 

During the week, the students participated in a variety of academic and social experiences. Staff from the Advising Resource Center (ARC) and Office of Financial Aid led sessions on proper course balancing and financial aid resources.

“The advising portion was very beneficial for the students,” said Lindsay Zeig, ARC career and academic adviser. “The students we met with made significant changes to their schedules that I believe will help them be successful in their first year.” 

Evening activities included use of Bumpers Game Room and a student dance. 

Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive. C.O.R.E. participant Kendra Baker said the program helped to strengthen her academic skills. “The Summer Bridge program assisted me in understanding things I struggled with all through high school,” she said. Another student, Kayla Fike, said that “supportive staff and new people made the experience an outstanding one.”

With a focus on underrepresented students, particularly African-American and Latino students, the program strives to engage students from urban settings. All C.O.R.E. participants will have access to resources and support throughout the academic year.

“Students will meet with the program coordinator and with a peer ambassador who will help address any academic and social needs,” said Brown-El. “We hope to grow the program into an experience we can continue to offer well into the future.”

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.

For more information about the program, view the website.