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BLOG POST FOR JULY 22

Go Blue! Summer Springboard has officially launched at the University of Michigan!

Students from across the country arrived in Ann Arbor today, kicking off two exciting weeks of learning, leadership and new connections on one of the nation’s most iconic campuses. 

After moving into the dorms, meeting their mentors and exploring their new home at U of M, students quickly began forming fast friendships and getting into the Michigan mindset. With the buzz of campus life and the energy of possibility in the air, this group is ready to hit the ground running.

What’s next? Students will dive into hands-on academic courses, led by passionate instructors who bring real-world experience into the classroom. They’ll take part in eye-opening excursions, True You sessions focused on personal growth, and interactive challenges designed to build confidence, creativity,and collaboration. From the classroom to the Big House and everywhere in between, this is just the beginning of an unforgettable Summer Springboard experience in Ann Arbor.

Here are some highlights from the start of the program:

• We had a smooth check-in process with our new SSB friends from all over the world, including Asia!
• The students started their classes, met their teachers, and started their hands-on learning.
• Everyone met with their mentor groups for the first time and got to bond a little more with their mentors and fellow mentees.
• The students went on a boundary walk and got to explore the beautiful University of Michigan campus. They also went on a scavenger hunt around campus!
• We did our first CRW’s where students learned Mastering Money.
• Games begin! We enjoyed some friendly team competitions where we shared our mentor group poster and chants.

BLOG POST FOR JULY 24

Week 1 at the University of Michigan got off to an unforgettable start!

Parents, your teens have hit the ground running this week, and we couldn’t be more impressed! From the moment they arrived on campus, they’ve been fully engaged in a dynamic mix of hands-on academic courses, eye-opening True You workshops and inspiring excursions. 

They’re not just learning, either. They’re diving deep into self-discovery, building confidence and starting to map out their futures in meaningful ways.

Our students have been challenged with exciting new ideas, collaborating with peers, and forming friendships that will last far beyond this summer. Whether exploring the beautiful Michigan campus or engaging in lively classroom discussions, your teens are making the most of every moment. 

With Week 2 ahead, the experience only gets richer: more opportunities to grow, learn, and prepare for their next steps. We can’t wait to see what’s next for these incredible young leaders!

Here are some highlights from the first week of the program:

• Our students had an exciting day exploring career pathways at the University of Michigan through visits to different schools and organizations. Each group gained valuable hands-on experience and learned more about careers connected to their interests.
• Kinesiology students visited the School of Kinesiology, while Automotive Engineering students toured the Lurie Engineering Center. Sports Broadcasting students explored the world of media at Cumulus Media, and Business and Entrepreneurship students learned about building a successful business at Zingerman’s Bakehouse. Human Genetics students visited the Museum of Natural History, and Sports Management students met with the University of Michigan Athletics Department to learn about careers behind the scenes in collegiate sports.
• These experiences gave students a better understanding of different career paths, inspired them to think about their futures, and showed them how classroom learning connects to real-world opportunities.

BLOG POST FOR JULY 31

That’s a wrap on a memorable Summer Springboard experience!

What a journey it’s been on campus. After two incredible weeks of hands-on academic courses, inspiring True You workshops and adventurous weekend excursions, our students have crossed the finish line of an unforgettable Summer Springboard program. They’ve explored new ideas, challenged themselves and made friendships that will last long after they leave campus.

Throughout the program, students gained valuable insight into their college major interests and career aspirations, while reflecting on the kind of learners and future professionals they want to become. From engaging classroom discussions to real-world experiences beyond campus, this summer has been all about growth, discovery and setting the foundation for what’s next.

We’re so proud of everything they’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see where their journeys take them. Here’s to new beginnings and exciting futures ahead!

Here are some highlights from the final week of the program:

• Our students had an exciting opportunity to tour Michigan State University and experience life on a college campus. During their visit, they explored the university, learned about academic programs, and gained valuable insight into college life.
• Students also participated in college readiness courses that helped prepare them for future educational success. It was an inspiring day that encouraged our students to think about their goals and the possibilities that higher education can offer.