information from SSC
South Seattle College will welcome the incoming class of 13th Year Promise Scholarship recipients to campus from Sept. 13-15 for a three-day Bridge Program orientation that prepares recent high school graduates for a successful transition to college. Over 130 students are expected to attend the orientation and start their higher education at South with their first year of tuition paid for through the 13th Year Promise Scholarship program.

Members of the media are invited to attend the Bridge Program graduation ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m, at the Olympic Hall Auditorium on the south end of campus (marked “OLY” on the campus map). A group photo opportunity of the incoming class will occur at 11:45 outside Olympic Hall. The celebration will occur from 12-1 p.m. and include a student processional, welcome remarks from South President Gary Oertli and a panel of 13th Year alumni and incoming students. Students, college staff and South Seattle College Foundation board members will be available for interviews after 1 p.m. upon request.

The 13th Year Promise Scholarship guarantees one year of free tuition at South Seattle College for all high school graduates from Chief Sealth International, Cleveland and Rainier Beach high schools, regardless of their grades or finances. Scholars’ first year of tuition is covered through a combination of donations to the South Seattle College Foundation and financial aid rewards.

The Bridge Program orientation is a requirement for all incoming 13th Year scholars, and is one of several support services that helps ease their transition into higher education. Topics include learning about college resources, meeting key staff and faculty members and getting tips on acclimating to college culture and expectations.