BEST Bridge Program
The mission of the BEST program is to help recruit, retain, develop and graduate students as scholar athletes.
Goals:
The goals of the best program are to help students:
- Understand their roles as students first.
- Meet the diverse demands of college life.
- Increase their academic success.
- Reach their full potential.
- Strive toward full integration into the life of the university.
Orientation:
All students participate in an intensive orientation to the campus, community, and college life. In addition, student athletes participate in a START session to meet academic advisors and register for fall classes as well as receive orientation to academic procedures, study loads, resources, student services and campus buildings.
Assessment:
We offer a variety of assessments so we can design a program of support appropriate for each student. Assessment may include academic evaluation of math, writing, and reading levels; learning styles inventory; and an inventory that measures wellness, life planning, leadership, and physical, social and emotional well-being. These assessments allow advisors to guide students into appropriate classes.
Academic Course Work:
Student athletes earn credit in required courses such as Math, Writing and Sociology from engaging instructors. They also earn credits in a course designed to enhance academic, personal, and interpersonal/cultural skills. The goal is to increase academic/athletic leadership, retention and success. Students have support from Residence Hall Assistants, Learning Strategists, Tutors and Instructors.