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Pioneer Bridge Program

Monday, August 25th – Friday, August 29th, 2025

The Pioneer Bridge Program is a high school to college orientation program for students who are either first-generation or Opportunity Scholarship recipients. In this week, students would be having the opportunity to meet different campus resources, discuss college life with current Carroll University students, and find intrinsic motivation to advocate for their needs in the future. Students who would like to attend this program should be prepared to have the following participation expectations:

  1. Engage with Peers: Be open to meeting and connecting with other students who are also beginning their college journey.
  2. Embrace Intrinsic Motivation Through Learning: Participate fully in classes designed to build your confidence, knowledge, and readiness for college.
  3. Build Your Support Network: Take advantage of opportunities to meet and interact with campus staff, faculty, and support resources that will guide you throughout your college experience.
  4. Get a Head Start on Campus Life: Acclimate to campus life before the majority of first-year students arrive, setting a strong foundation for your success.
  5. Learn from Mentors: Meet daily with experienced Carroll University student mentors who will provide insights, guidance, and encouragement.
 

Program Requirements

In order to qualify for the program, students must:
  • Be admitted to Carroll University 
  • Understand the participation expectations
  • Be available to participate for the duration of the program (Monday, August 25th – August 29th, 2025). About 8 hours a day, excluding any evening programming that is optional but highly encouraged
  • First-Generation college student or an Opportunity Scholarship recipient
  • Complete Application

Application opens March 1st, 2025. The priority deadline for the Pioneer Bridge application is Saturday, May 31st, 2025. The application must be completed in its entirety to be considered for the program. We will prioritize applications received by deadline, but will still be accepting application until final review, May 31st, 2025. Participants should expect a program decision in the week of June 2nd – 6th, 2025. Please direct questions to aarodrig@carrollu.edu or 262-524-7665

Benefits of Pioneer Bridge

No Program Cost 

During the program your housing, meals, and activities are covered

Early Move-in

Get settled into your on-campus residence prior to new student move-in 

Head Start 

Get a head start on college success with early access and exposure to campus life and resources 

Community Building 

Start building relationships with academic faculty, staff, administrators, and your peers, helping you create a unique support system

Mentorship

Be paired with a current Carroll students who will guide you through your Pioneer Bridge Program Experience

Pioneer Bridge Participation Scholarship

Students that participate and complete in the Pioneer Bridge program will receive a one-time scholarship of $500.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pioneer Bridge?
Pioneer Bridge is a week-long transition program created to support students through transition from high school to college. Our goal is to ensure that you are prepared to succeed academically, personally, and socially at Carroll University.
When is Pioneer Bridge?
Programming is August 25th – 29th
Move-In will be on Monday, August 25,2025.
 
When would a Pioneer Bridge participant move in if they are going to be a Carroll University resident?
Move-In will be on Monday, August 25th, 2025. If a student needs to move in sooner, they are able to request an early move in date by emailing aarodrig@carrollu.edu. There is no guarantee on earlier move-in.
How much does Pioneer Bridge Cost?
No additional cost
Is the Pioneer Bridge Program mandatory to attend Carroll University?
No, the Pioneer Bridge Program is not mandatory to attend Carroll University. To receive the Pioneer Bridge scholarship does require a participant to complete the program.
Where do Pioneer Bridge students live?
If you are planning to live on campus during the academic year, you will move into your assigned Residence Hall and room that you will have for the year. 

If you are a commuter, you will commute from home to campus during the programming dates. 
What do I eat during Pioneer Bridge?
Meals will be provided through our on-campus dining services. Accommodation can be made for dietary restrictions.
How many students will attend the Pioneer Bridge Program?
The program participation is on a smaller scale of 30-60 students. 
What support services are provided during Pioneer Bridge?
There are many different support systems available during programming including, but not limited to: 
  • Professional Program Staff 
  • Student Assistant Coordinators 
  • Peer Mentors 
  • Campus Resources (Public Safety, Residence Life, Student Life, Walter Young Counseling Center, Health Center, etc.) 
Am I able to travel during Pioneer Bridge Program?
We ask that you do stay on campus during the week for programming unless you are commuting from home. 
Am I able to work during Pioneer Bridge Program?
We do ask that you remain on campus for the duration of programming unless you are commuting from home to participate. 
Am I able to return home during Pioneer Bridge Program?
We do ask that you remain on campus for the duration of programming unless you are commuting from home to participate. 
 
If I participate in the Pioneer Bridge Program, am I able to skip first-year orientation?
No, first-year orientation offers a lot of necessary information all first-year students should receive to have success at Carroll University.

​How to Apply:

Application Deadline: NEW! Saturday, May 31st, 2025

Ready to Apply

Fill out all parts of the application:

  1. General Application
  2. Program Expectations & Interest
  3. Short Essay Responses
  4. Additional Support & Needs
  5. Acknowledgement of Application
Use the link below to apply, if you have questions concerning your applications status, please contact aarodrig@carrollu.edu.
Apply Here
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