The Lake Start Summer Bridge Program is seeking peer advisors and resident assistants (RAs) to help conduct a summer program for freshmen this year.

This is a six-week program in which students can live on campus, earn up to three credit hours before the academic year even begins, and get acquainted with the campus.

“Our students also learn study skills, attend cultural workshops, and meet with deans,” said Luana Alvarez, learning specialist.

The cost is $400. It includes tuition, room and board, and cultural activities.

There are 35 slots available. Program coordinators are working to increase the number of students allowed. They will mail out reminders to apply, but students can go to the Retention and Academic Success area of the Lake Web site where there is a link for an application.

There are some requirements. Students have to be an admitted freshman, take the AccuPlacer as soon as possible, and find out the scores. If students qualify, they can apply to the program.

“These past summers were run differently,” said Rhonda Moses, associate dean. “It was our first year working with only admitted students, and it was successful to me because, out of thirteen students, twelve are still continuing at the Lake today.”

Alvarez is working with different organizations such as Campus Ministry to create more events for the program.

“I’m working on having Mass and weekend events so students get to know San Antonio and the Lake. It is part of the OLLU mission,” said Alvarez.

Upperclassmen are not fully out of loop on this one. Students who are outgoing, responsible, have one year of college at the Lake, and have at least a 2.5 grade point average can apply to be a peer advisor at the Lake (PAL) or a resident assistant (RA).

Students can go to Walter Center Room 210 to pick up an application.