TLSAMP Summer Bridge Program
The Summer Bridge Program offered by the Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (TLSAMP) is a cooperative effort between the National Science Foundation and six universities in the state of Tennessee, including the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). The UTK residential Summer Bridge Program will focus on enabling participating minority high school graduates to achieve a smooth transition to college life.
The Summer Bridge program emphasizes three areas: academic instruction, academic skills and life skills. Academic instruction covers math, chemistry and physics. Academic skills include supervised study sessions, communication skills and study skills. Life skills include teaming through group activities under the supervision of program staff. Click here to see a sample Summer Bridge Program itinerary (PDF).
The program is administered by the UT-TLSAMP Office, which is located in 110 Estabrook Hall. UT College of Engineering faculty and graduate assistants provide instruction. Student counselors (two male and two female) will live with participants in a University of Tennessee residence hall.
How to Apply
Students wishing to participate in the program must download, complete and submit a Summer Bridge Program Application (PDF). This document includes all information and instructions regarding the application process.
Eligibility Requirements
In addition to being an underrepresented minority student (Hispanic, African-American, American-Indian, Alaskan Native or Pacific Islander), participating students must:
- Be admitted to and attending the UTK College of Engineering in the Fall of the current year.
- Attend a UT orientation session and taken the math placement test prior to attending the program.
- Complete and return all enclosed forms and the essay as listed in the application procedure.
- Mail in a copy of their insurance card (front and back).
Room and Board
Room and board is provided to all participants. Students are housed in residence halls and must follow these rules and regulations prescribed by the University of Tennessee and the TLSAMP Program. Three meals are provided daily through on-campus dining.
The residential life experience is an integral part of the college experience. Living in a residence hall is an exciting opportunity that requires self-discipline, compatibility with other students from different backgrounds and a high degree of responsibility. The counselors and residence hall counselors are constantly available to assist students during this period of group living. They will offer support as needed so that each student will have a successful experience. An important part of this adjustment is an understanding by participants of the hall rules and standards of conduct that are designed to provide a high degree of civility, stability and security. An orderly, clean and comfortable living area supports and enhances the learning atmosphere and benefits everyone.
Recreation
A variety of recreational and social opportunities is available to students enrolled in the Bridge Program. Tennis, swimming, bowling, billiards, volleyball, table tennis, racquetball and basketball are available on campus.
Program Financial Support
Participants will receive the following:
- Food -- facilities located on campus.
- Housing -- in UT residential halls .
- Expenses -- a stipend of $250 to offset travel costs. (Students who participated in the statewide TLSAMP BRIDGE Program will also receive a $500 stipend.)
Local Transportation
Local transportation will be provided for all activities. If you are planning on bringing your car to campus, you must pay for a parking pass before arriving, or be responsible for any tickets received. A temporary parking permit will be provided for students that bring their car and have not yet purchased a UT parking permit for the academic school year.
TLSAMP Books and Supplies Stipend
Provided at the beginning of each school year for high academic achievers (GPA 3.0 and above) during the preceding year.