Background
The University of Wisconsin-Madison welcomes international students from over 100 different countries. We have 3,300 international students, ranking UW-Madison's international student population among the top 20 in the nation. The BRIDGE program was established to help new international students connect with U.S. students. International students come to the United States only days or weeks before school starts. Once they arrive, they are confronted with language barriers, culture shock, loneliness, and study stress, among other worries.
How the Program Works
New international students are paired up with U.S. students to participate in one-on-one and group activities throughout the semester. International partners learn about the university and the Madison community, as well as cultural customs of the area. U.S. partners also benefit from the partnership by learning about other cultures, customs, values and traditions. BRIDGE provides an opportunity for cultural sharing and exchange on the UW campus.
Members' Commitment
Participating in BRIDGE does involve commitment. BRIDGE partners must commit to meeting seven times or more throughout the semester. This comes out to about two times a month. BRIDGE partners will compare schedules and decide when to meet throughout the semester. There will be a list of suggested activities and events that partners can participate in or attend. Check out our calendar and photos and see what we have done! BRIDGE participants are also required to keep a short journal and write about their experiences and activities with their partner.
Our Co-Sponsors:
International Academic Programs (IAP) offers over 110 study abroad programs to UW-Madison students across campus. Many programs are also available to Wisconsin residents or degree-seeking students from outside UW-Madison. Instruction is in a wide range of languages, including many options in English. Click Here for more info .
The Center for the First-Year Experience (CFYE) at UW-Madison examines, informs, facilitates, cultivates and enhances the first-year experience at UW¡VMadison. Click Here for more info.
