BASE Program

Overview

The BASE program is a two-year (four consecutive semesters) program that helps students develop and apply skills and strategies needed to navigate all aspects of college life, both academic and social, and prepare for their chosen careers and life beyond college.

To promote independence, the BASE program is designed to provide support when a student first comes to Bridgewater and gradually evolves over time based on each student’s needs and progress.

Students in the BASE program should be able to live independently on a college campus while attending and fully participating in academic life as well as the BASE program.

Transition Support

• Early move-in that allows for a calmer transition to life in the residence halls
• A personalized campus tour based on the student’s schedule to begin developing a routine
• A BASE welcome meeting that provides important resources, information, and advice before classes begin
• Events and workshops hosted throughout the student’s first semester that address topics such as healthy relationships, personal health and stress management, hygiene, and academic skills
• A program mentorship that supports the student as they transition to college life

Academic Support

• Academic coaching in a small group setting to develop time management skills, personal responsibility, and organizational techniques with coaches who have received specialized training
• Access to an organizational app
• Course advising provided by the Program Coordinator in collaboration with the student’s faculty advisor

Social Support

• Monthly group social events to build friendships and encourage engagement in campus community, including game nights, picnics, and more
• Weekly meetings with their program mentor
• Additional social skills groups and activities throughout the semester

Program Mentor

• A weekly meeting with a program mentor who offers targeted support and connection within the campus community
• Assists their mentee in connecting socially on campus
• Encourages students in reaching their individual goals
• Directs their mentee to appropriate resources

Career Readiness Support

• At least one workshop or event hosted by BASE Program support staff and/or local experts each semester to teach professional skills and help students prepare for their future careers
• Personalized coaching by BASE Program support staff provided to aid students in obtaining on-campus or local employment. Coaching includes a focus on hard and soft skills, navigating the job search process, connection to disability-focused job platforms, and mock interviews in a small group setting

Residential Support

• Early move-in that allows for a calmer transition to life in the residence halls
• Weekly meetings with their program mentor
• Access to RAs who have had specialized training
• Access to resources to assist with health and well-being

Parent Support

• Regular email updates provided to parents detailing program progress and resources being offered
• A minimum of one group parent meeting per semester

Other Support

• Weekly meetings with BASE Program support staff to assist students in all areas, encourage the development of important life skills, and refer students to appropriate campus resources

Application Process

Please read through the entire BASE Program application process before starting an application.

1. Complete a BASE Program Student Application: The BASE Program application can be found in the student’s Bridgewater College admission portal. The student should complete the BASE Program application independently. 

2. Referral Form: A completed BASE Program Prospective Student Academic Overview (link found in the student’s Bridgewater College admission portal) from up to two qualified professionals who know the student well (e.g., Transition Teacher, Special Education Teacher, DARS or DBVI Counselor, Health Care Provider, etc.) is required. The completed document should be uploaded to the student’s Bridgewater College admission portal.

3. Completion of a BASE Prospective Parent Survey Form (linked in the student admission portal) by one parent or guardian based on their observation and experience. 

4. Intake Meeting: The student will meet with the BASE Program Coordinator to review the completed application and some components of the student self-assessment. This meeting can occur online or in person. Parents are welcome to attend, but the conversation will be primarily with the student. At the end of the meeting, parents will be given space for additional information, comments, or questions.

Student applications and all required components for the following fall academic semester at Bridgewater College are due or postmarked by March 1 at 11:59 p.m. Students will be notified of whether they are accepted to the BASE Program within approximately four weeks of completing the intake meeting. Please be aware that the number of students accepted into the program is limited annually, and there are limited slots on our wait list.

If you’re interested in the BASE program but have not yet applied to the college, you can schedule a campus visit or submit an inquiry to learn more about BC.