Student Experience
What You'll Gain
Students who participate in Strong Start will:
- Build meaningful connections with peers and develop a strong sense of belonging
- Strengthen their academic skills essential for success in college
- Learn how to identify and effectively use campus academic support resources
- Increase confidence in their ability to thrive at the University of Utah
- Begin the fall semester with momentum that supports first-year persistence and retention
Strong Start in Their Words:
- “Strong Start is living up to its name.”
- “I strongly believe that the Strong Start Program saved me mentally and socially. Strong Start gave me a group that I immediately bonded with … made the summer one of the best summers I've ever had.”
- “Being in the Strong Start Summer Bridge Program was a really useful experience. They help you to navigate … how to get scholarships … how to get tutoring.”
- “The Strong Start team is what I found most valuable — they helped me build connections before school started.”
Next Steps
After Strong Start
Students continue into their first fall semester, likely more confident and familiar
with campus resources.
They have already earned 6–7 college credits (Gen Ed + QUEST).
Long-Term Benefits
Getting a head start academically can help with degree progress.
Starting the residency clock early may provide longer-term financial benefits.
Continued Support
Students are encouraged to join Living Learning Communities (LLCs) in the fall to maintain their community and peer support.
Ongoing advising through QUEST, peer mentors, and the Office of Undergraduate Studies helps with major exploration and first-year success