Bridging the Gap: Virtual Summer Bridge Model for Freshmen and Transfer Students from First-Generation and Low-Income Backgrounds

This study explores the implementation of a virtual summer orientation model at a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI) in the southwestern United States. The Virtual Summer Bridge (VSB) program was developed to address the challenges of transitioning to university life, particularly for first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over a three-year period, data from 908 participants—comprising incoming freshmen and transfer students—was collected through surveys and reflections. Findings indicate that high levels of engagement, involvement, and retention were achieved through intentional design, emphasizing counselor and peer interactions facilitated by CANVAS communication tools. This study highlights the importance of fostering intellectual, academic, and social integration in virtual settings, underscoring the program's success in promoting retention and supporting the needs of incoming freshmen and transfer students during a critical transition period.