Bison Bridge is a free 3-day experience designed to support local first-year students, who are first-generation* or have a high financial need, attending NDSU beginning fall 2026, transition from high school to college. During the program, students will be introduced to the NDSU experience and will start developing important connections to get a jump start on their college career. Essentially, the Bison Bridge program builds resilient, independent, determined graduates with excellence. This program is fully funded and there is no cost to participants. Other benefits include:

• Learn to navigate campus and develop a sense of community and belonging
• Engage with new NDSU students and build friendships before classes begin
• Get paired with a peer mentor
• Have all book fees waived for fall and spring semesters through Bison Ready
• Become familiar with NDSU academic resources and support services
  • ACE Tutoring
  • Center for Accessibility
  • Career and Advising Center
  • Center for Writers
  • Counseling Center
  • Financial Aid and Scholarships
  • Information Technology
  • One Stop
  • NDSU Libraries
  • Rising Scholars Program
  • TRIO Student Support Services
  • Wellness Center

If you have a high financial need, or are a first-generation*, first-year student to be enrolled at NDSU, this program is for you. Take advantage of connecting and networking with resources that will start your college career positively.

*NDSU defines a first-generation college student as a student whose parent/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor's degree.

Bison Bridge Program Impacts:

Bison Bridge helps students build community, develop a sense of belonging, gain confidence in their transition to college, and connect to campus with an increase knowledge of resources to maximize their college experience. 96% of participants made connections with other students they plan to stay in contact with; feel a sense of belonging in the program; feel more confident about their transition to NDSU; and learned about at least one resource they plan to visit during their first semester.

Bison Bridge Participant Testimonials:

“I gained friends and a much better understanding on where to go for classes and what college life will be like in general.” -TyMarie

"I really loved this experience. There was never a day where I didn't feel good about coming to this event. I loved everything about it, from all the opportunities I had to speak to advisors, to all the friends I made, and especially the information I learned about NDSU." -Georgina

Application for Bison Bridge 2026 Coming Soon!
Please stay tuned for updates.

Contact Kaelen Napoleon in the Center for Community and Belonging at kaelen.napoleon@ndsu.edu | 701-231-1868, if you have any questions about the Bison Bridge program or the application process.