TLSAMP Summer Bridge Program
The four week Summer Bridge Program offered by the Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (TLSAMP) is a cooperative effort with the National Science Foundation. The four week Summer Bridge Program will focus on enabling participating underrepresented 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. The curriculum will consist of an introduction to college life and preparation for math/science/engineering fundamentals. The program will also feature hands-on learning opportunities, tours, social, and recreational activities.
The program will be hosted at the University of Memphis located in Memphis, Tennessee. The program will take place from June 3rd, 2012 to June 25th, 2012. Only 50 students across the state will be accepted into the four week Summer Bridge Program.
How to Apply
Students wishing to participate in the program must download, complete and submit a Four Week Summer Bridge Program Application (PDF). This document includes all information and instructions regarding the application process.
Eligibility Requirements
In addition to being an underrepresented student (Hispanic, African-American, American-Indian, Alaskan Native or Pacific Islander), participating students must:
- Meet the terms of the student agreement (application) for the 2012 TLSAMP Four Week Summer Bridge Program
- Be admitted to and attending UTK majoring within a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics discipline in the Fall 2012.
- Attend UTK new student orientation session on June 26-27, 2012.
- Complete and return all enclosed forms/essay as listed in the application procedure.
- Students and parents are responsible for transportation to/from the program site and new student orientation.
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 Memphis and the TLSAMP Program. 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 assistants 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.
Program Financial Support
Participants will receive the following:
- Food -- facilities located on campus.
- Housing -- in residential halls.
- Students who participated in the TLSAMP Four Week Summer Bridge Program will also receive a $500 stipend.
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.

