Building Bridges
The Building Bridges Mentoring Program matches historically underrepresented first-year students with faculty from the departments that the students wish to explore as possible majors. The foundation of the program is built upon the work of faculty mentors who play an integral role in the academic development of the students. As a result of these early interactions with faculty, many Bridges students find opportunities for research and internships within their first two years.
Students must apply to the program the summer prior to their first year. If accepted the student will meet regularly with his/her mentor throughout the year. Students will also be assigned to a peer mentor and grouped with other first-year students in the program who share the same academic interests. After the first year, the program will continue to assist students with finding opportunities for academic growth and career discernment. Building Bridges is cosponsored by the Office of the Provost. The Building Bridges Brochure in pdf. format is also available.
National Medal of Science laureate Sylvester James Gates, Jr. (above left) joined Lincoln Robinson '16 (above right) and other Bridges students at his most recent visit to the campus of Notre Dame.
During his sophomore year, biological sciences major Olaf Rodriguez '14 (right) authored a paper published by Prof. Susanta Behura's (far right) research team. Since 2010 16 additional papers have been co-authored by Bridges students.