2008 Summer Program for Academic Readiness, Knowledge and Success

VISION STATEMENT

 The Division of Student Affairs & Services will contribute to other University efforts to recruit, support and retain at-risk students who are seeking opportunities within the UC community by implementing a summer bridge initiative that promotes academic excellence, personal responsibility and leadership development.

 MISSION STATEMENT

 UC Summer Bridge will provide selected in-coming freshmen with the basic academic and transition skills needed to become successful students at the University of Cincinnati through academic instruction and study skills development, financial aid counseling, peer mentoring, as well as exposure to strategies designed to promote the likelihood of success within the culture of a post-secondary institution.

 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

 SPARKS is a comprehensive program wherein students engage in an intensive five-week academic experience that occurs during the first half term of the Summer quarter session (June 23-July 28). Each student enrolls in three of our specially designed courses that include English 101, Communication 171, and Academic Excellence Seminar. SPARKS courses are taught by some of UC's top faculty members, in classrooms with limited enrollment.  

 SPARKS is a challenging academic program, yet it is designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience.  Students can expect to spend time outside of the classroom, making friends, finding their way around campus, working out, or just relaxing.  A significant advantage of participating in SPARKS is the opportunity to become familiar with the UC community prior to the advent of Autumn term.  More than 26,000 students will arrive on the uptown campus in the Fall, but SPARKS participants will enjoy an accelerated preview of life at UC.  It's the perfect time to get to know the university, become familiar with the many resources and opportunities on campus, and get acquainted with this amazing college environment.