Bridges Scholars Program

"Figuring out what you want to do with your life is not easy. I have felt confused and lost for the past two years. Somehow though, through all of the chaos and confusion, I have started to make little paths here and there for myself to follow. Through the many twists and turns, Bridges Scholars has helped me to face my fears of becoming something truly… genuine."

- Bridges Student

The Bridges Scholars Program is a two-credit class that engages undergraduate students in career and vocational exploration and planning. The program is designed to provide students with guidance and support from career development center staff, upperclass students and peers.

Purpose:

The Bridges Scholars Program fosters discovery of vocation through action, and the formation for supportive relationships. Bridges Scholars engage in the ongoing process of inquiry, exploration, and decision-making around the question, "What will I do with my life?"

Vocation is understood as a process of discovery, of finding one's life's work and deepest commitments of time, energy, and passion.

Bridges provide passages for travelers of the world, allowing them to find ways between what is and what can be.

How does the program work?
As a Bridges Scholar, student will earn two credits for:

• Regurlarly attending class once a week for two hours 
• Participating fully as an active member of a small group called your Bridges Team and staying connected throughout the semester with your upperclass Team Leader
• Completing assignments such as reflection papers and outside activities throughout the program

What do Bridges Scholars do?
Throughout class activities, discussions and assignments, Bridges Scholars will:

• Explore their talents, passions, and values
• Consider all of life's career and vocational possibilities
• Ask the hard questions about who they want to be and what they want to do with their life  
• Learn to effectively speak and write about their skills and goals
• Learn and apply practical career and job search skills
• Avoid the  "I don't know what I want to do!" panic. 

What is in it for me?     
Here are a few highlights:

• Create support networks with fellow Bridges Scholars and start exploring the question, "What do I want to do with my life?"
• Take interest and personality inventories to find out more about yourself and begin exploring the skills and values that may influence your vocational choices
• Hear stories and get advice from Hamline students, staff, and alumni and community members
• Start developing a resume that emphasizes your skills and experiences
• Consider the influence of diversity in your career and vocation
• Learn strategies for networking and conduct informational interviews
• Participate in a practice interview with a professional in your area of interest
• Set academic, life and career goals and make plans to achieve them

Watch video clips of the Bridges Scholars talking about their experience:  clip 1 and clip 2

What do Bridges Scholars have to say about the Program?

To sign up for the Bridges Scholars Program, include GSTD 1400 in your class registration. For questions contact CDC.