The program is not mandatory- however, the program is highly encouraged.  Some benefits of the program include:

Start your college career strong with a high GPA

• Average program GPA 3.05 

• 17% of students earned a 4.0

Have a better chance of completing your degree

• According to a study by Graham et al (2023) there is higher persistence rates among first-gen and students of color who participate in first-year experiences like a summer bridge

• 99% of students from the S3P program retained from summer to fall

Gain on-campus experience prior to the start of fall semester.

Receive college credit

Introduced to vital campus resources, staff, and faculty important to long-term university success

Achieve early social and networking opportunities- from friends to on-campus employment

Understand yourself as a college learner- build study, time management, and motivation skills ahead of the curve

When you complete both your 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 FAFSA's you will receive financial aid to cover all costs for this program, including tuition, housing, dining, and books.  

• Participants must file both a 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 FAFSA in order to be eligible for this financial aid for the summer program.
• If you choose not to file your FAFSA's, you will be responsible for the full cost of the program.
• If you are not eligible to file a FAFSA, or you have questions regarding funding, please contact the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at [email protected] or (616) 331-3234.
   

During this residential experience participants will live in either Maple Living Center , Oak Living Center, or Pine Living Center.  Each of these living centers are suite-style units consisting of two students per room, and four students per suite with a shared bathroom. Two residents share a double fully furnished room with a sink. These building is located on the north campus. 

Click here for a GVSU packing list.  You will receive more detailed move-in information as we get closer the start of the summer program. 

Any roommate accommodation requests should be sent to Adrian Hall ([email protected]).  All other roommate assignments will be made by our housing staff. 

Participants may go home on the weekends, however, we encourage students to remain on campus and offer activities during the weekend.  All students should communicate their weekend plans with Oliver Wilson Scholars staff. 

S3P - Summer Classes

Math 108 or Math 110 (3 or 4 credits)

English 100- Reading for College in all Majors (3 credits)

EDH 181- Navigating College Success (1 credit) 

Students should expect to be in class Monday-Thursday between 9:00-4:00.  Additional activities Monday-Thursday are a required part of the program.  Optional activities are offered on Fridays with outings on Saturdays.