Passaic Today

When students head off to college, few consider the possibility of dropping out, yet data shows many do, especially within the first year.

About 25% of first-year students don’t return for their second year, and around 35% don’t stay at the same school. Montclair State University, however, excels in keeping students on track. Early-college programs are credited with keeping students in school. They also perform better academically and earn higher GPAs.

This summer, about 400 students took part in early-college experiences, including the Summer Bridge Scholars Program, Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF), and Health Careers – programs credited with ensuring college success by providing incoming freshmen, many the first in their family to attend college, an intentional supportive bridge from high school to college in the fall and beyond. Programs were also held at Bloomfield College of Montclair State University.

“Nationally, summer bridge programs serve as a powerful equalizer, particularly for first-generation and underrepresented populations,” says Daniel Jean, associate provost for Educational Opportunity and Success Programs. “The pre-fall exposure to the curricular and co-curricular environments leads to closing the achievement gap and improving overall scholar outcomes.”

EOF Director Rahjaun Gordon points out five attributes of Montclair’s programs:

- Academic preparation: Rigorous coursework helps students transition to college-level academics.

- College experience: A taste of campus life eases anxiety and sets realistic expectations.

- Study skills development and academic support: Structure and time management are critical skills for any college student to be successful, and Montclair’s programs tailor supplemental instruction and tutoring to students’ needs.

- Social and networking opportunities: Making friends and connections support students through college and beyond.

- Campus navigation: Students learn what resources the campus has to offer before their first official semester, fostering a sense of belonging, ownership, and pride.

“I’m one of the incoming freshmen who knows where most places are on campus,” said Brittany Zelaya-Bustillo, an incoming Accounting major.

“I will be going into the fall semester with a high GPA, new connections and experience navigating the campus,” stated Ruby Castillo, an incoming Psychology major.

Summer Bridge Scholars features residential and commuter options, including hybrid learning. The program offers a variety of courses at a discounted rate across all of Montclair’s schools and colleges. More than 250 students earned up to seven degree credits. Supplemental instruction, academic coaching, peer-to-peer meetings, school community meetings, and Montclair 101 workshops are embedded into the program. Last summer saw 95.65% of participants still enrolled in Montclair in spring 2024 with higher GPAs than those who did not attend.

EOF Summer Academy saw nearly 150 incoming scholars earn six college credits for free. Students participated in various co-curricular activities such as financial literacy education, career development sessions, community service projects, and leadership development initiatives. Over 70% of EOF scholars graduate within six years despite many coming from under-funded school districts.

Health Careers prepares highly motivated and academically capable students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds for admission to health professions schools (medical, dental, optometry) or other careers in sciences or health fields.

Prospective Student / Parent: Learn more about Summer Bridge Scholars and College Access Programs; plan a visit to our campus and take the first step in applying to become a Red Hawk!