For over 30 years the Bridge Scholars Program has allowed entering students to participate in rigorous academic instruction in calculus and physics, and to develop the skills necessary for academic and personal success at Rensselaer.
We offer a series of annual events, communications and supports for all Bridge Alumni. Previous events have included receptions during Family Weekend, social and academic gatherings throughout the year, and invitations to special events.
"Throughout the Bridge program, I was introduced to many staff and faculty. They all seemed to be genuinely interested in my success as a student. The relationships I built with these community members only strengthened during my first semester. So much that when I decided to change majors, one of the professors from Bridge took on the role of being my academic advisor.
Bridge played a huge role in my adjustment to college. In my time at RPI, I have faced many personal issues. Each time, I knew exactly where to go for help. I was comfortable with doing so because the staff had already shown me they were invested in my success. Now, in my third year, I am always excited to see fellow Bridge scholars walking around campus. I make a conscious effort to say hello and ask them how their time at RPI is going so far. If they need help, I try to give them advice, or even help if the problem is math homework. I am very proud to call myself a Bridge Scholar!"
Funding
The Bridge Scholars Program at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute was funded, in part, through the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Program - a National Science Foundation program intended to support historically underrepresented students in the STEM fields. This program is aimed at increasing the quality and quantity of students successfully completing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) baccalaureate degree programs, and increasing the number of students interested in, academically qualified for and matriculated into programs of graduate study. LSAMP supports sustained and comprehensive approaches that facilitate achievement of the long-term goal of increasing the number of students who earn doctorates in STEM fields, particularly those from populations underrepresented in STEM fields.
LSAMP was named in honor of former congressman, Louis Stokes, who spent his life serving and defending those in need.
Note: The LSAMP Grant was terminated by the National Science Foundation (NSF) in May 2025. RPI is no longer be able to offer the services of the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Program to any new incoming students.
