The laptop computer is this era’s new pen and paper, but for some students at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), it’s both. More than 150 incoming freshmen received a tablet laptop computer that functions like a machine but can be written upon with a pen.
Fujitsu Computer Products of America Inc. awarded $700,000 in laptops, printers and accessories to students currently enrolled in Summer Bridge, a four-week program that aims to smooth the transition into college life for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Students can use the laptop during their university career. Fujitsu awarded the gift on Aug. 5.
UCSD and UC Irvine were the only two universities to receive the gift. UCSD was chosen because of its creative use of computer technology and its outreach endeavors, like Summer Bridge, said Judy Piercey, UCSD spokeswoman.
“It’s very exciting. This is their world-class, top-of-the-line computer,” Piercey said.
Augustine Orozco recalled when he went through Summer Bridge in 1988. He met fellow students who became his best friends and staff who became his mentors. Orozco says that it’s important to create a support network for students to help them survive their first, crucial year. Orozco now coordinates the program.
“It really helps with the retention and graduation rate,” Orozco said. “It is a difficult transition to go though. They may be smart, but most of them are the first in their family to attend college.”
Orozco believes that the technology gives a boost to the students, who will be able to write papers and communicate through their new laptops, and escape from the lab occasionally to work at home.
While Summer Bridge tries to stay abreast of new technology, Orozco says the heart of the program remains the same: helping students achieve in college.