Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question not answered here, please feel free to contact us.
Will I receive credit for the classes that I take in Summer Bridge?
Because of the short duration of the program and since no tuition is charged, the OSTEP summer courses are not for credit and will not appear on transcripts. The Summer Bridge Program is for student enrichment and is a free introduction to freshman year so that students feel more comfortable in classes once they start in the fall.
Can I work during Summer Bridge?
No, not during the academic component of the program since it goes from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Additionally, evening personal and professional development workshops and seminars require your participation. After the academic component is completed, students will either return home or participate in the internship component of the program, if a position is found for them.
Do I have to live on campus?
Yes. Summer Bridge is an academic residential program, and you will live in a university residence hall. Parking is not paid for. Most OSU students use the free campus-wide shuttle system provided by the university. Upon acceptance to the program, students will receive information regarding getting their BuckID, a suggested packing list, a residence contract, and arrival information.
Can I go home on weekends?
You are not required to stay on campus during the weekend, however most students find they need to stay to study, do homework, or do research for a project or paper.
Do I get a break before fall classes begin?
Yes. There is a week between the end of the Summer Bridge Program and the first day of Welcome Week if participating in the internship component of the program and seven weeks if you are not.
Are there any freshman welcome activities before school starts?
Yes. The President’s Convocation is Monday, September 21, 2009 at St. John Arena. On Monday of Welcome Week, some 7,000 freshmen and transfer students gather in historic St. John Arena to begin an incredible college journey. Students hear from top administrators, walk in their first college processional, and learn some of the university’s history and traditions, including the words to “Carmen Ohio,” Ohio State’s alma mater. Afterwards, students can attend the Student Involvement Fair on the Oval where nearly 500 student organizations, clubs, campus offices, and businesses have booths to talk to students about life outside the classroom.
Can I choose my Summer Bridge roommate?
This is optional and you may request a roommate by including his/her name and OSU student identification number in the “special requests” section of the Summer Bridge Program Housing Contract.
Will there be any fun activities for students?
Students will have access to rec rooms in the residence hall, the Recreational & Physical Activity Center/RPAC (for a small fee), the OSU campus area, academic-related field trips, evening activities, the orientation reception, and the closing reception.
Are scholarships available for the school year?
At this time, OSTEP does not award scholarships for the academic year. However, OSTEP participants will be guided towards other scholarship opportunities for which they are eligible.
