The University of Louisville’s College of Business recently welcomed an enthusiastic group of high schoolers to its Belknap campus for the Fall 2022 Cardinal Bridge Academy Scholars bi-annual visit. This initiative provides a unique Cardinal Learning Bridge for students from across Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), offering them an immersive experience into university life and future academic pathways. College of Business faculty and staff members joined forces to deliver an engaging and informative day, designed to illuminate the possibilities that higher education at UofL can unlock.
The Cardinal Bridge Academy program is strategically structured to give motivated high school students a significant head start on their college journeys. Participants gain invaluable experience through dual credit college courses, allowing them to earn college credits while still in high school. Beyond academics, the program emphasizes the development of crucial personal and professional skills, ensuring scholars are well-rounded and prepared for future success.
Students were provided with a comprehensive overview of the university admissions process, gaining clarity on application procedures and essential requirements. Crucially, the visit highlighted various scholarship opportunities available at UofL, making higher education more accessible and financially attainable for these promising scholars. To truly immerse them in the UofL experience, a campus tour was conducted, showcasing the vibrant learning environment and state-of-the-art facilities. Scholars also had the invaluable opportunity to network with current UofL students, gaining firsthand insights into university life and building connections within the UofL community. A symbolic and exciting moment for the visiting students was the presentation of their official UofL Cardinal Cards, signifying their early connection to the university.
Student testimonials underscored the program’s positive impact. Nylayah Maples, a senior at Ballard High School, enthusiastically shared, “…I love it! It’s a great opportunity for students to gain college credit and college experience. I highly recommend it for high school students looking for something challenging.” Mackenzie White, also from Ballard High School, echoed this sentiment, adding, “…it really gets you used to what college is like and the independence you will have that is different between high school and college”. These firsthand accounts highlight how the cardinal learning bridge effectively prepares students for the transition to higher education.
Cardinal Learning Bridge Academy students and their mentors engage in a breakout session at the University of Louisville Belknap campus, highlighting mentorship opportunities within the program.
A key component of the Cardinal Bridge Academy is its mentorship program, connecting scholars with experienced professionals. During the campus visit, students had the distinct privilege of meeting their professional mentors for the first time. Mentors from Yum! Brands, a prominent Louisville-based corporation, generously dedicated their time to engage with the scholars in a special event, officially launching the mentoring season. Interactive breakout sessions were organized to facilitate meaningful interactions between scholars and mentors, providing a platform for them to connect, share experiences, and practice essential professional skills. The enthusiasm was mutual, with one mentor remarking, “I was truly inspired by [the students]. They made me realize that the future is so bright!” This mentorship aspect of the cardinal learning bridge provides invaluable guidance and real-world perspectives for the students.
The Cardinal Bridge Academy exemplifies a proactive approach to fostering future generations of college graduates. By providing a robust cardinal learning bridge, the University of Louisville is investing in the academic and professional futures of local high school students. For individuals interested in becoming a Cardinal Bridge Academy scholar or contributing as a mentor, further information can be obtained by contacting [email protected]. This program serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to community engagement and providing accessible pathways to higher education.
