What is Smooth Transitions?
Smooth Transitions is a pre-orientation program specifically designed to support university diversity initiatives and assist with the adjustment from high school to college.
The program was developed based upon recommendations from enrolled students when asked for programming suggestions that would assist first year students. They responded that although the Fall Orientation program provided significant information for a successful foundation for beginning college and students were able to develop positive relationships among other first year students
A program that provides a blend of social and college readiness activities.
Increased opportunities to connect with other students of color and develop support networks.
Data and participant evaluations have consistently indicated that students that participated have become more engaged and comfortable in university life.
Why should you participate?
All students entering college require an opportunity to adjust to the environment and the increased academic expectations and rigor of college life. Studies indicate, however, that students of color, regardless of their academic ability, tend to function at a greater rate when provided a program specifically targeted to address factors generally associated with matriculation in a predominantly white institution. These factors include “motivational and performance vulnerability in the face of negative stereotypes and low expectations for performance, academic and cultural isolation, peers who are not supportive of academic success, and perceived and actual discrimination” (Habrowski, Fostering First-Year Success of Underrepresented Minorities).
Plus, IT IS FUN!!! We do incorporate social activities in the program. It is a great way to begin to establish friendships with other first-year students that you may not have an opportunity to meet in the early months of your first year. This is a great way to find out about student organizations.
Peer Mentors, upper class students, work with the program to begin establishing a relationship that will provide students someone to seek out for advice or support during the first year.
What happens during Smooth Transitions?
- Workshops for Academic Preparation
- Introduction to campus resources and staff members
- Early assessments for writing and critical thinking
- Discussion groups with Peer Mentors
- Social Activities
How do I sign up?
Registration information will be mailed mid-June. A complete Web page will also be available at this time. Meanwhile, feel free to contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs, at (614) 236-6307.