A group of almost 20 students is beginning the Fall Term tackling a goal that previously seemed unattainable.

Participants in Brock’s Academic Bridging program, which welcomes students who may not have otherwise qualified for university, gathered in the Student Success Centre Thursday, Aug. 31 for an event to help prepare them for their first year of studies.

Designed to ease the transition to post-secondary learning, the eight-month access-to-university pathway welcomes non-matriculated students over the age of 21 and Convention refugees who can’t obtain transcript documentation.

Participants in the program will take a variety of non-credit tutorials alongside a reduced academic course load that will allow them to focus on the areas of development needed to be successful in their studies.

For incoming student Sam Brown, the program offers a supportive route to return to school.

“I have been away from formal education for so long, and the Bridging program just seemed like the perfect way to get back into it,” he said.

Brown is hoping to channel his artistic interests into the Film Studies course he is taking.

“I never thought I could do something in the arts, but I think through the Film Studies program I can find a much more fulfilling career,” he said.

Karlee Mallett, Brock’s Manager of Academic Transitions, said the program has provided students from a variety of learning backgrounds with an opportunity to pursue an undergraduate degree.

“The enhanced supports offered by our Learning Services team have allowed these students to thrive in their degree studies, and the students have shown great appreciation for the one-on-one support they receive from our team in Admissions,” she said.

Psychology student Carolyn Abbey, who took part in the program last year, said the Academic Bridging supports removed some of the pressure that came with starting post-secondary studies.

“The program gave me access to information about Brock and the tools I needed to succeed in the rest of my school career,” she said.

Mallett said the Academic Bridging program epitomizes Brock’s commitment to offering a transformational and accessible university experience.

“It has allowed students who lack the qualifications for admission to be assessed in an equitable way, taking their prior experiences and potential barriers into consideration,” she said. “Everyone deserves a chance at furthering their education, and the Academic Bridging pathway is a great way for students to unlock their full potential in a university setting.”

While recognizing that some initial nerves about his studies are inevitable, Brown said he is particularly grateful for the supports the program provides as he charts a new path.

“I’m ready to get out of my comfort zone, and I’m excited to see how Bridging can change my future,” he said.

To learn more about the Bridging program, visit the Admissions @ Brock website.