What happens when you are a student entering college and you find that your initial placement tests in reading, writing and mathematics indicate that you may not be ready to be successful in college-level courses? Will this situation delay you from taking college-level courses and put you behind schedule for completing your degree?

This summer, for several students facing that very possibility, Carroll Community College offered a week-long Summer Bridge program to help them strengthen their basic academic skills, with the goal of re-testing and placing directly into credit courses. Summer Bridge is offered to students who place into developmental classes based on their Accuplacer scores. The college uses the results to determine specific areas in which students need remediation, and then provides course modules focused on those needs. Students then re-take the placement test after completing the Bridge Program.

Thirty six students completed the program this year. Of that group, 29 students moved up one or more levels or improved their scores.

Chair for Transitional English, Reading and Academic Services Magdeleine Vandal said that the Summer Bridge program addresses a longstanding problem that new students face. In many cases, they have not studied mathematics, English or writing for a year or more before applying to Carroll. “Our focus is the review of the things they already know but may have forgotten,” said Vandal. “We also improve test-taking strategies. Students learn to read test instructions carefully, practice, review concepts, and gain a better understanding of each subject.”

Summer Bridge is a collaborative program sponsored by Academic Services and Student Affairs. In addition to helping incoming students academically, the program helps students become comfortable with the college environment.

Vandal said her department works with Admissions and the Testing Center to prepare students for taking the Accuplacer test by identifying resources that offer sample tests and practice exercises.

“Participants have told us they were thrilled with their results and so proud of themselves. They thanked us for giving them a better sense of college life,” said Vandal.

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