Summer Bridge

When you start at Castleton, you’re taking a big leap.

That's why we offer Summer Bridge to TRIO students entering their first semester at Castleton.

Summer Bridge

Summer Bridge is a five-day program that runs the week before first-year orientation every August. In 2023, Summer Bridge will take place from Sunday, August 13 - Thursday, August 17. During the week, you will live on campus with other new students and upper-class students who will serve as mentors. You'll participate in workshops, projects, and experiential activities about various topics, including learning styles, time management, research papers, and paying for college. We'll acquaint you with the ins and outs of campus life and discuss how you can succeed in college.

Oh, and did we mention Summer Bridge is fun? In past years, students have attended plays, watched movies, tried rock climbing, and hiked Vermont's beautiful mountains, all while making new friends. By the time first-year orientation is underway, you'll be a part of the team - and feel much more at home at Castleton. 

Best of all Summer Bridge is free to all students accepted into the program. It includes housing, meals, and all workshops and activities, and it’s open to residential and commuter students. 

Are you playing a fall sport?          

Good for you! However, your practice and training schedule may conflict with Summer Bridge, so you should check with your coach before applying to the program.

Can't do Summer Bridge? Don't worry: your time with your team will give you the same jump-start on college life, and you can always meet with us during the semester to discuss everything we cover during Summer Bridge

Are you studying in the Killington Resort and Hospitality Management program? 

We welcome you to join us for Summer Bridge. However, since you will be living and studying in the Lodge at Killington, we will not have housing for you between the end of the Summer Bridge and move-in day at Killington. 

Summer Bridge Application Information  

Summer Bridge admits first-year students selected according to U.S. Department of Education TRIO grant guidelines.

Applications are due July 1, 2023. However, we will prioritize applications received before July 1st. If space allows, we will continue to accept application through rolling admissions until July 31, 2023.

Preference for admission will be given to students who meet two of the three following criteria:

• Neither parent has a four-year degree, OR
• Your family has a low to modest income (according to TRIO guidelines), OR
• You have a documented disability according to the Americans with Disabilities Act

APPLY for Summer Bridge

SSS TRIO Achievement Grant Application Information

To earn the $1,000-$2,000 Fall 2023 SSS TRIO Achievement Grant, all criteria below must be met: 

• Receipt of Federal Pell grant in Fall 2023
• Regular meetings with ASC staff during the 2023-2024 year
• Fall 2023 GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Unmet financial need or loans
• Completion of iGrad financial literacy modules
• Grant application due November 10, 2023

SSS TRIO Achievement Grants will be awarded in February 2024.