Hitting the ground running

Bryanna Hill says the JMU Business Bound program was exactly what she needed to hit the ground running. This specialized summer bridge program supports first-generation students as they transition to Madison and build a foundation for success in college.

Bryanna Hill says JMU’s Business Bound program is all about tools, connections and confidence.

Designed to help first-generation students navigate new classes, campus life and academic expectations, Hill says the five-day summer bridge residential program helps first-generation business students settle in and find their way before the rest of the first-year class moves in.

“We did pre-Algebra, Excel and some resilience workshops,” she says. “It was an opportunity to get to know the College of Business staff, the professors, and just get an insight of what the business world is actually like, and some tips and advice.”

For Hill, the week was a marvelous combination of making new friends that she has kept throughout the school year and also “a lot of the stuff we learned that first week applies to my current classes.“

Hill recommends Business Bound for its mix of networking and also programming aimed at helping new Dukes make the transition to a whole new way of life. From course preparation to skills workshops to fun social activities, Business Bound gives new Dukes healthy doses of advising, mentorship and a general familiarity with the campus itself.

“At first, I was really nervous because I didn't know anybody,” she recalls. “And even though I am an outgoing person, it was still a new environment, you know—being in college, being alone. And so I would definitely recommend it to those who are unsure and just want to get themselves out there.”

Hill is thrilled to have made the leap to JMU.

“I love being a Duke. I love the people here,” she says, adding, “I love being in the mountains. I think that JMU has a lot to offer.”