Introducing CSP 121- Bridge Scholars Plus: Why Not Me ? Creating Innovative Social Change
Learn about Bridge Scholars Plus:
The Bridge Scholars Plus (BSP) course is the largest cohort that optiMize instructs, with 93 scholars. These scholars participate in their own version of the Social Innovation Challenge. The Bridge Scholars Plus program is an extension of the Comprehensive Studies Program, which was born out of the series of Black Action Movements on the University of Michigan’s campus spanning from 1970 to 1987.
Bridge Scholars Plus combines the hands-on experience of the Social Innovation Challenge with the connection and support of a living-learning community in South Quad. Students are able to live and learn alongside their peers, fostering a community of innovation and camaraderie while building upon the relationships they developed during their Summer Bridge experiences. Students seem thrilled about their experience!
Jeniya Coleman, BSP Class of 2028, spoke fondly about her time as a member of the living-learning community.
What was your experience like in Bridge Scholars Plus?
My experience with Bridge Scholars Plus was very beneficial because it helped me strengthen the bonds I formed during Summer Bridge. I was also able to dive headfirst into the creative process of developing an idea and building lasting relationships.
What did BSP teach you?
BSP taught me how to plan for a long-term project and what steps are necessary for ideas to come to fruition. I learned patience and the importance of building to learn. I’ve learned to see the beauty in the process, even when it takes time or becomes frustrating.
How did you evolve professionally and personally?
BSP taught me the importance of following through with commitments. I now value the act of following through much more. I feel more dedicated and intentional about the things I commit to. I also feel more aware about how my actions affect other people. The class focused heavily on empathy for others.
What did you take from your experience as a scholar?
I learned that ideas don’t have to stay on paper. Many ideas never make it because people don’t know where to start or what to do. To get your ideas off the ground, you have to take a leap and stay dedicated to what you’re pursuing and who you’re doing it for.