REACH (Retain, Engage, Aspire, Connect, Help) Peer Mentoring program focuses on the experiences of students of color and first-generation college students. First-year students are paired with returning student mentors who serve as a resource and a support person. The REACH program fosters identity, academic and social engagement, and personal development. Formerly known as EXCEL, REACH is a 3-day summer bridge program for students to find community and develop a sense of belonging on campus. Students will have opportunities to:
- Connect with upper class mentors and other first-year students
- Engage in developmental and interactive activities
- Experience living in the residence halls
The REACH Mentor Program continues in the Fall with a 1-credit hour course focusing on building academic and social skills to assist with the transition of the first year. The class will be every Thursday from 3:30 – 4:45 p.m. for the first 10 weeks of Fall. For more information about registering for the course, email mc2@bsu.edu, call 765-285-1344, or speak to your academic advisor.
Program Dates
Program Dates: August 2025 - specific dates will be updated in April
Please note that four other Summer Bridge Programs - Accelerate, Cardinal Leadership and Service Seminar (CLASS), Connecting Accessible Resources with Disability Services (CARDS), and Early Start - take place during the same dates as REACH, so if you are registering for this program, you cannot register as a participant in any of the other four.
Program Fee
$135.00 (includes meals, lodging, and activities)
Registration
Registration will open on April 4, 2025.
Itinerary for 2024
- Morning and Afternoon - Move into your residence hall
- Evening - Welcome and social activities
- Morning and Afternoon - Opening sessions and college transition
- Evening - Social activities
- Morning and Afternoon - Opening sessions and college transition continued
- Evening - Social and closing activities