Collegiate Success Institute
About CSI
Welcome! Get a jump start on your college career by participating in the Collegiate Success Institute (CSI). During this six-week summer bridge program incoming UMBC students can earn 4 to 7 credits, ease into campus life, and discover the UMBC campus and the surrounding area.
With the CSI program, first year students get a chance to experience the UMBC campus before the start of the fall semester. The whole purpose of a summer bridge is to incorporate academics, campus exploration, self discovery, and social activities to prepare students for success at UMBC. What does this mean for you if you participate in CSI?
- CSI students have three courses to select from and these courses are exactly what new students need and enjoy. Getting an A or two over the summer is a great confidence boost!
- Interesting on- and off-campus activities introduce CSI students to the campus and local attractions. CSI students get to know each other through these activities, a community service project, structured study time, and evening and social events. We have many adventures outside the classroom including trips to the surrounding area (Baltimore and Washington DC) and a chance to learn about the campus. There are also evening activities such as trivia and movie nights as well.
- Students in CSI continue to receive individualized support for academic and personal concerns throughout their first year at UMBC. The assistant director and peer mentors will continue to mentor and advise CSI students during the fall and spring semesters to help in any way they can.
- The CSI program includes outstanding faculty members, professional staff, undergraduate peer mentors, and other students in the program. All of these people will get to know each CSI student and support them through their transition to UMBC.
" The CSI program is a must for all freshmen! It's a great opportunity for students to get a head start on college by attending classes, living on their own and interacting with other students. It gives the incoming student a chance to feel safe and comfortable in the college environment." - CSI Parent
Course-Related Information
In CSI, students:
- Attend classes Monday through Thursday and field trips on Fridays for six weeks
- Participate in an Introduction to an Honors University course (1-credit) to introduce them to campus resources and college success strategies
- Attend mandatory study hours and tutoring sessions to work on papers, study, complete homework, and prepare for exams
- Purchase books, course packets, and classroom supplies as needed
"I learned more about myself and what I want to do in college. I really enjoyed the support of the Peer Mentors and staff. I noticed that the patience of the staff allowed for us, the students, to relax." - CSI Student
Workshops, Field Trips, and Community Service
The CSI program helps students learn about campus life. By the beginning of the Fall semester, CSI students are academically prepared for college, have new friends, and know their way around campus and the surrounding area. Workshops, field trips and community service take place on weekdays and some weekends. These activities vary depending on class schedules. Past activities have included:
- A low-ropes/rock climbing course
- Etiquette sessions and an etiquette lunch
- Field trips and tours of Baltimore
- Community service projects
"I feel I have gained an advantage over the other incoming freshmen. Very beneficial – will recommend to other incoming freshmen!" - CSI Student
An investment in CSI will help you find success, friendships, and an understanding of UMBC that will make your first year comfortable and enjoyable. Explore this website to find more information about the CSI program. Please do not hesitate to contact us with questions about the program. We look forward to hearing from you as you explore and APPLY to this fantastic program!
For More Information, Please Contact:
Assistant Director of FYE
lailams@umbc.edu | (410) 455-3737