ESCANABA & IRON MOUNTAIN, Mich. (WZMQ) – Bay College is offering prospective students of any Michigan college or university a chance to “kickstart” their academic journey.
This summer, the free, two-week Bay College Kickstart program is helping students prepare for college.
“It is open to all Michigan students who are intending or are enrolled for the fall in a math or English course,” said Kickstart advisor Makenna Nelson. “We are going to offer sessions to brush up on their basic English and math skills, as well as college workshops that cover things like time management, study skills, situational awareness.”
With sessions at the Escanaba campus, Iron Mountain campus, and online, the program is designed to fit each student’s lifestyle. Advisors help participants navigate everything from scheduling to studying. Other benefits include loaner laptops and other technology, transportation assistance, and the opportunity to earn a completion award of up to $500.
“It’s going to be small classroom size, individualized lessons,” said advisor Gabriela Boyle. “We will be providing snacks, and lunches for them. They will also receive free school supplies from us, college resources, community resources. We will prepare them to be successful in college and beyond.”
The Kickstart program is open to every type of student, whether they are a first-time freshman or a member of the workforce returning to the classroom. Advisors acknowledge that beginning college at any stage of life can be an intimidating experience.
“I know that myself because when I started here four years ago, I was absolutely terrified of entering college,” Boyle said. “For me, it was a cultural shock on top of that. All of us here, we’ve been in students’ shoes at some point of our life, and we would like to help them reach their personal growth and their full potential.”
They say their goal is to equip students with the tools to succeed on day one.
“The purpose is to meet individuals where they’re at and help them achieve their goals from there and give them the resources to be able to do that,” said Nelson.
The Bay College Kickstart program runs from June 10 – June 20 at the Iron Mountain campus, July 15 – July 25 at the Escanaba campus, and from July 29 – August 8 online. Sessions take place Monday through Thursday, with orientations scheduled before each starting date.
Orientation for the Iron Mountain campus will take place on June 6, and there are still spots available. To register for any of the Kickstart programs or to learn more, click here.
