NextGen Summer Bridge gives students a head start on college

Ellen Martinez was nervous about starting college as a first-generation student. Unsure of her path, she found confidence and direction after participating in PBSC’s NextGen Summer Bridge program in 2022. 

“I would recommend NextGen to students because it allows students to find a place at PBSC and then going on to university it makes them feel less lost,” Martinez said. 

Since participating in NextGen Summer Bridge, Martinez has graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a bachelor’s degree in international business and returned to PBSC as an embedded advisor. On the first day of this year’s program, she joined fellow alumni for a panel discussion, “I’ve Walked a Few Days in Your Shoes,” where they shared advice and encouragement with incoming students. 

NextGen Summer Bridge is a two-week program for students transitioning from high school to PBSC. Hosted by the Dr. Carey-Shuler Student Success Center in collaboration with TRIO Student Support Services, the program is designed to enhance the first-year experience at PBSC while expanding access and educational opportunities for first-time-in-college students. Participants engage with a variety of speakers, workshops, and activities aimed at preparing them for a successful college journey. 

The program is free for students who meet Florida residency and in-state tuition requirements. During the two-week experience, students build connections and friendships, become familiar with campus resources, meet faculty and staff, and explore potential career paths and fields of study. Participants also get a head start on their college education by enrolling in Summer Express B courses worth up to six credits at any of PBSC’s five campuses. 

Nationally, 90–95% of students who participate in similar summer transition programs remain in good academic standing throughout their college careers. PBSC is one of only a few Florida colleges that offers a summer transition program of this kind. 

Fellow alumna Terry St. Germain also spoke on the panel. After participating in NextGen in 2024, she transferred to Lynn University, where she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in forensic investigation. St. Germain said the program helped her develop time-management and note-taking skills and encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone.  

“I loved my time at Palm Beach State because it was like a community,” St. Germain said. “NextGen made a mark on my professional journey and set me up for success.” 

NextGen Summer Bridge will continue through June 18, culminating in an end-of-program scholarships and awards celebration later in the summer.