From reading syllabi to navigating airports, EMERGE Scholars took one giant leap toward college readiness. 

On July 9, over 170 rising first-year college students gathered at the University of St. Thomas for EMERGE Summer Bridge Day 2025—a full-day experience designed to equip Scholars with the tools, strategies, and confidence they need to thrive in their first semester of college. 

“We created Summer Bridge Day to help students feel seen, supported, and ready,” said Gary Tashima, Managing Director of Alumni and College Success. “We know the transition to college is filled with excitement and uncertainty. This day is about navigating that transition with connection and preparation.” 

Building Community and Confidence 

The day began with a Regional Mixer, where students met peers attending schools in the same region. Through speed-friending and a photo challenge inspired by EMERGE’s Trailblazer values—grit, perseverance, humility, gratitude, and intellectual curiosity—students connected over shared hopes and nervous laughter. 

“Being around other students going through the same thing was reassuring,” said Darion Randle, an incoming first-year at Kalamazoo College. “I met people from my region and even students attending my college—it helped me feel like I already have a support system in place.” 

From High School to College: What It Really Takes 

In the morning sessions, students tackled the realities of college academics. They compared high school and college class structures, dove into real college syllabi from the University of Houston and the University of Pennsylvania and built mock weekly schedules to practice time management. 

Karina Alfaro, who will attend the University of Michigan, said the session changed her outlook: 

“I didn’t realize how different the structure is in college. In high school, teachers walk you through everything. In college, it’s all on you. This gave me clarity—and confidence.” 

Real-Life Simulation: Minute to Matriculate 

In the afternoon, students participated in a fast-paced simulation called Minute to Matriculate, where one minute equaled one day in August. Scholars worked in teams to manage financial aid, register for orientation, apply for jobs, and make budgeting decisions—all while avoiding late fees and enrollment holds. 

“The simulation is chaotic on purpose,” said Roaul Channer, Director of District Strategy. “It mirrors the emotional reality of preparing for college—and it’s better for them to make mistakes here in a safe environment than to wait until real life.” 

Practical Prep: Travel, Packing, and Panel Advice 

Students also explored the logistics of getting to college—researching travel plans, budgeting for transportation, and deciding what to bring versus buy. In-state students joined a college panel with current Scholars who offered first-hand advice on adjusting socially and academically. 

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” said Irais Luna, a current college Scholar at Wellesley College. “There’s always someone who can help—on campus or at EMERGE.” 

A Letter to the Future 

To close the day, each student wrote a letter to their future self—capturing the excitement, anxieties, and dreams they carry into their first semester. The EMERGE team will mail the letters back to them this fall as a reminder of their resilience and readiness. 

DeeSean Palmer, an incoming University of Richmond student, summed it up best: 

“You don’t know what you’re getting into until you’re there most of the time. This gave me the knowledge—and the mindset—to feel ready.” 

What’s Next? 

Summer Bridge Day is just the beginning. The EMERGE College Success Team will continue checking in with Scholars through the fall, offering monthly newsletters, virtual resources, and one-on-one support. 

To all our Scholars—your journey is just beginning. And you’ve got this.