FAQs

What does BRIDGE stand for?

BRIDGE stands for Building Research and Implementation capacity for Driving Growth and Equity.

What is the duration of the BRIDGE Program?

The BRIDGE Collaborative Program is designed to be 12 weeks.

Is the BRIDGE program a paid internship?

Yes! The BRIDGE program is a paid internship.

What are the deadlines for submitting each required document during the application process?

All documents are due by November 15, 2026:

Completed BRIDGE Collaborative Training Program application
Personal statement
Resume
Academic transcript
Recommendation letters (2)

What does an average week look like for someone who has been accepted into the program?

The first virtual week will provide scholars with the opportunity to network with their mentor, and will familiarize themselves with the CBO they have been given, amongst other components. Surrounding the physical aspect of this internship, scholars will engage in community-based HIV prevention research projects, enriching their comprehension levels of local factors that impact HIV disparities, amongst other tailored activities.

What is the duration of the BRIDGE Collaborative Training Program?

The program will begin in February of 2027 and end in April of 2027.

Is the BRIDGE Collaborative Training Program in-person, virtual or hybrid?

The experiences with the CBOs will be in-person and the meetings, seminars, alongside other components are virtual.

When will I be matched with my mentor?

The matching of mentors and mentees will take place within the first week of the program.

What is the objective of the BRIDGE program?

The objective of the program is to provide a well-articulated and organized education with the opportunity to form a strong network surrounding community-based organizations, public health agencies and academic institutions in the effort to enhance the professional and educational aspect of their life.

When will accepted applicants be notified?

Selected Trainees will be notified by December 15, 2026.

What are the eligibility requirements for this program?

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Have not been accepted into a graduate program for the upcoming academic year.
Must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate college or university based in the United States or Puerto Rico.
Have the desire to pursue a graduate or doctoral level education.
Will be able to fully participate in the activities within the program.
Has genuine curiosity about HIV research, health equity, implementation of science, public health, or related fields.

Will I be able to work part-time or full-time while being enrolled in the BRIDGE program?

No, we do not recommend for a participant to be employed within the duration of the program. This is due to the fact that there will be activities such as workshops, lectures, among other events within the timeline of 9:00AM to 5:00PM.

How many hours are scholars generally expected to dedicate to readings and assignments?

Scholars are expected to meet a time commitment of at least 10 hours per week.

Which universities is the BRIDGE Collaborative Training Program accepting applications from?

Applications are being received only from the following Universities:

George Washington University

Johns Hopkins University

Rutgers University

Howard University

University of North Carolina

Will scholars have the opportunity to discover pathways to graduate education and research careers?

Yes, scholars accepted in the program will be able to explore graduate education and research career pathways in HIV research, implementation science as well community-engaged research through continuous mentorship, alumni engagement and professional development opportunities.

Who do I contact if I have any questions or concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at bridgeprogramgwu [dot] edu.