Summer Bridge
As a part of the FirstGen program, Summer Bridge provides incoming FirstGen students the chance to connect with the FirstGen community at Biola, explore campus and begin their college journey!
College Success Workshops
College isn’t just about learning a subject, it’s about learning who you are. The workshops you will attend during Summer Bridge are designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills for college and beyond.
Introduction to Bible Classes
Are you nervous about your first college class? Our Introduction to Bible classes will prepare you to navigate Biola’s faith environment while giving you a taste of what you can expect from some of your Bible classes.
Community Events
Life is better together — get to know other FirstGen students in group activities, competitions and outings. Our community events will leave you feeling known, connected and excited for college.
Here's a glimpse of what Summer Bridge offers!
Program Benefits
For the one-week Summer Bridge program, every FirstGen student receives the following at no additional cost:
- Delicious meals at the Biola Caf
- Exclusive FirstGen swag
- Individualized enrollment support
- Immersive field trip in the Los Angeles area
- Expert guidance from Biola staff and faculty to navigate college life
- Early access to campus, including residence halls for dorming students
Important Dates
- Summer Bridge Dates: TBA
- Dorm Move-In Day: TBA
- Summer Bridge Dinner: TBA
How to Sign-Up
- Registration will open soon.
What Are Students Saying?
Alberto Reyna Jr.
B.S. in Mathematics, Secondary Education
I met people that I connected strongly with through our stories and background. It was awesome to be connected with FirstGen faculty and staff that take time to connect and support you. The FirstGen program has truly been a blessing for me that has equipped and empowered me in my identity, relationships, resources, mentorship, leadership and community.
Clarissa Chan
B.A. in Psychology
Being a part of the FirstGen community is so life-giving. The FirstGen community at Biola is a testament that FirstGen students are characterized by diversity and an appreciation for one another. Having come from different cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds and upbringings, we came together as a community with the common goal to love God, love one another and to graduate together as one. Many of my closest friends are from the FirstGen community, and I wouldn't trade it for anything else.
Ibironke Akinola
B.A. in Public Relations
I love being part of the FirstGen community because I have made the most life changing friendships here. It has been a huge blessing to know that I have people in my corner, and people understand my unique struggles. Being a part of the community helped my anxiety, and helped me have a smooth transition into college instead of just getting thrown into it.
Summer Bridge Schedule Coming Soon
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Summer Bridge cost anything? Do I need to pay for meals?
No, Summer Bridge is at no cost to you — your meals at the Biola Caf are covered and paid for by SEID until a certain date. This is covered for both commuter and residential students.
Do I get to live on campus for Summer Bridge even if I am not planning to dorm for the semester?
No, the Housing Office and FirstGen team are not able to accommodate temporary housing for Summer Bridge attendees who did not apply for housing on campus. Unfortunately, we do not have additional dorms available for all Summer Bridge attendees due to limited capacity and preparation of dorm rooms for students who will be living on campus in the fall.
Can I come for only one or two days to Summer Bridge but not all of them?
We’ve intentionally designed Summer Bridge to cover the scope of the following topics that we believe are instrumental to your first-year success: College Success, Practical Competency, Financial Literacy, Spiritual Formation and Well-Being.
Due to this design, we require that if you register for Summer Bridge, you agree to attend all the required workshops and events during Summer Bridge to make the most out of your experience.
However, if there is an extenuating circumstance, please contact FirstGen team at firstgen@biole.edu.
Do I have to live in a specific dorm to attend Summer Bridge?
No, you do not need to live in a specific dorm to attend Summer Bridge. All first year students will be assigned housing in Sigma, Alpha or Hart Hall.
What do I need to bring when I move in?
The Housing Office has created this guide 'What to Bring' when you move into residential housing. Learn more about what to pack, bed size, what is prohibited (e.g. microwave), provided furniture and more. For more information contact undergrad.housing@biola.edu.
Do I have to move back out or go back home after the program since the official move-in day for the rest of campus is not until later?
No, once you move in during Summer Bridge, you are fully moved into your dorm room and residence hall. You do not have to move out or leave, a benefit of the FirstGen program for residential students is that you can stay and enjoy being on campus early!