Bank of America Summer Bridge Program
Empowering the Success of First-Generation Students
About Summer Bridge | Hear from Students | Info Sessions & Registration | FAQ
Thanks to generous funding from Bank of America’s Economic Outreach Program, JWU Charlotte’s Summer Bridge Program is designed to provide first-year students with the support and resources to build a strong foundation for success. This specialized initiative is designed primarily for first-generation students and those from traditionally underserved high schools within a 75-mile radius of Charlotte.
Over the course of 2.5 weeks, participate in a dynamic summer transition program featuring first-year experience workshops and engaging programming in an inclusive, affirming environment. JWU Charlotte celebrates the diversity of individual experiences and honors the legacy of first-generation students.
Summer Bridge runs on a cohort model, which means that the small group you start with (your “cohort”) stays together throughout the program and beyond. Once the summer transitions to fall and spring, you will continue to meet monthly with your Summer Bridge group, boosting lasting connections as you strengthen your academic skills.
Program Benefits
As part of the Summer Bridge Program, you will:
- Get a sneak peek at college life.
- Meet fellow first-year students and build a supportive community.
- Live on campus for 2.5 weeks before the semester starts.
- Participate in engaging workshops and activities to prepare for success at JWU.
- Pay no additional cost — all program expenses are fully covered by Bank of America’s generous gift.
What does the program offer me?
- 🎓 Free room, board, and meals
- 💻 A free laptop and educational tools to support academic success
- 📚 Workshops on academics, personal growth, financial literacy, and career development
- 🤝 One-on-one mentorship with faculty, staff, and peers
- ❤️ Volunteer opportunities to give back to the community
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Summer Bridge program, you must:
- Reside within 75 miles of Charlotte*
- Apply to and be accepted by JWU
- File a 2025-26 FAFSA
*Reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
JWU Charlotte students reflect on how the Bank of America Summer Bridge program positively impacted their college journey:
2025 Program Dates
- Saturday, August 2 to Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Note: Because Summer Bridge is only 2.5 weeks, students must be prepared to commit to the full length of the program in order to be an eligible participant.
Sign Up for Info Sessions
Get more details about the program and answer all your questions by registering for one of our virtual information sessions. All information sessions are at 6pm EST.
- Tuesday, March 18, 2025: Regsister
- Tuesday, April 8th, 2025: Register
- Tuesday, May 6th, 2025: Register
- Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025: Register
Register for Summer Bridge
To reserve your spot in the program, fill out the registration form by July 10:
Have questions? Contact Campus Admissions:
JWU Charlotte Admissions
summerbridge@jwu.edu
980-598-1100
Is the program really free? Yes! Summer Bridge is a fully funded program for participants – housing, meals, activities, transportation to and from activities, supplies, etc.
How do I know if I am eligible? Eligible students will receive a personal invitation from JWU to participate in the program.
If I am going to be a commuter for the academic year, can I still participate? Yes. Students who will be living off campus for the academic year can still participate in Summer Bridge if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Do I have to come to JWU Charlotte in the fall to participate? Yes, you must be an incoming first-year student for the 2025-26 academic year to participate in Summer Bridge.
Will I be moving into my actual dorm room for the year? Yes, if you are living on campus for the academic year, you will be moving into your actual dorm room. You must complete your housing application, submit your health forms, and be financially cleared by July 9th.
How does the stipend funding work? You will receive a $1,500 stipend for your first semester after enrolling at JWU and successfully completing the Summer Bridge program. If you participate in fall Summer Bridge cohort activities and return to campus in the spring, you will receive an additional $1,500 stipend in the spring semester.
When is the deadline to register to participate? July 10th is the last day to register for the program.
Can I go home on the weekends or evenings? Since the program is only 2.5 weeks, students are not allowed to go home on the weekends. We would like for students to fully engage in the program.
Can I have a job while in the Summer Bridge program? During Summer Bridge, students are not encouraged to work. There will be evening and weekend activities.
Can I bring my car? Please do not bring a car until the start of the semester. All transportation will be provided to students during the duration of the program.