NSU’s Rookie Bridge Camp prepares new students for college success

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) invites incoming freshmen to begin their college journey at Rookie Bridge Camp, a two-day transition program designed to help new students feel prepared, connected and confident as they start their NSU journey.

Rookie Bridge Camp introduces students to life at NSU while creating opportunities to build friendships with fellow freshmen, upperclassmen and campus leaders. Through small-group interactions, organized activities and peer mentorship, participants gain valuable college tips, meet faculty and staff and embrace the RiverHawks spirit in a fun and supportive environment.

Rookie Bridge Camp’s mission is to ease the transition from high school to college by fostering an inclusive community that helps students build relationships, develop confidence and establish a strong connection to NSU.

Dr. Kendra Haggard, Director of Student Engagement and Transitions emphasizes the camp’s value with incoming students.

"RBC is an essential part of entering college,” Haggard said. “It is a fun way to learn about campus and to make friends that you will have for years to come. Students leave RBC feeling energized and excited about being at NSU because they make friendships and feel ready to start a new chapter."

“Many of our students are the first in their families to attend college, and that transition can feel overwhelming,” said NSU President Rodney Hanley. “Rookie Bridge Camp helps remove uncertainty by giving students the tools, relationships and confidence they need to succeed from the very start.”

Registration for the 2025 Rookie Bridge Camp is now open. The $75 registration fee includes lodging, meals, camp activities and a T-shirt. Registration is fully refundable until two weeks prior to the first camp session. Fees are charged directly to students’ NSU bursar accounts and may be paid online or in person.

Students can choose between two camp sessions, held Aug. 3-4 and Aug. 6-7.

Rookie Bridge Camp also offers a Sponsor a Rookie initiative, which helps incoming students attend camp at no personal cost through community support.

To sign up or find out more, visit https://offices.nsuok.edu/engagement/StudentTransitions/RookieBridgeCamp/default.aspx.

To sponsor a future RiverHawk attending Rookie Bridge camp, visit https://offices.nsuok.edu/engagement/StudentTransitions/RookieBridgeCamp/SponsorARookie.aspx.

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