Q: What is BRDG bridge-to-connect?

A: BRDG is a non-profit organization dedicated to the success of first-generation college students, majoring in engineering and computer science. We aim to diversify the population of potential employees and future leaders who are not only well-rounded and knowledgeable in their technical skills but in possession of leadership, interpersonal abilities, and socially aware.

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Q: Who will we be helping?

• First-generation college students

• Majoring in engineering and/or computer science

• In good standing as a junior at a four-year university

• Most likely on financial aid

 

Q: What is a first-generation college student?

A: A first-generation college student is the first in the generation of a family to attend college and receive a degree. If either of their parents have a degree (an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree), the student is not considered a first-generation college student.

 

Q: Why should we help?

A: By definition, “First Generation” students lack familial mentors (parents, aunts and/or uncles) who can guide them in making wise decisions while in college. Generally, these students choose practical (i.e. short-term) options that accommodate their family situation, rather than what’s best for their career (long-term). These practical decisions lead to a job that is often underutilizing their skills / potential. Your contribution will help these students to achieve their full potential and become future leaders in the technology sector.

 

Q: What is your success rate?

A: See below link for a testimony from one of our graduates

         https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW-YXqV4P6s

 

Q. How can we help?

A: You can:

• Sponsor a student by underwriting his/her stipend and development expenses

• Sponsor a hybrid recruitment event (in person and virtual) where corporations can directly meet and connect with 1st generation students who are ready for internship / employment.

• Underwrite a networking event for students with local companies and/or professionals.

• Underwrite a Personality / Communication workshop.

• Underwrite a Financial Literacy workshop.

• Invite our students to a technical conference that you are sponsoring / organizing.

• Invite our student to work shadow at your office.

• Be a mentor to our students (meeting once a week with a student to guide him/her on his/her choices as he/she explore various opportunities in the professional world).

• Be a coach (on a specific subject matter) to our students.

• Be a guest speaker at one of our events.

 

Q. What is our benefit for partnering with BRDG?

A. In addition to making a difference to 1st generation students and their family and generating more potential hires in the technology pipeline, please contact our Executive Director for more details:

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Caecilia Gotama, P.E.

brdg.cgotama@gmail.com