Smooth Transitions
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion invites incoming students to apply for Smooth Transitions, an early arrival program designed specifically to support students from underrepresented communities and first-generation students as they embark on their college journey at Capital University. This program aims to provide a transformative and supportive first-year experience, offering resources and guidance to help students navigate the academic, social, and cultural aspects of college life.
Smooth Transitions offers a comprehensive approach to student success, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds. The program includes educational workshops and sessions that cover essential topics such as navigating campus and the city of Columbus, strategies for academic and personal success, and how to engage meaningfully within a diverse and inclusive campus culture. By engaging in these activities, students gain an early understanding of university resources, develop skills to thrive academically and socially, and build connections within the Capital community.
In addition to the pre-arrival experience, Smooth Transitions provides ongoing support throughout students' first two semesters. Each participant is paired with a Smooth Transitions Mentor, a current student who offers guidance, encouragement, and check-ins to ensure a smooth transition into college life. Monthly programs further enhance the experience, fostering continued personal and academic growth, and creating a sense of belonging within the university.
This program is designed not only to help students succeed academically but also to ensure they feel supported, included, and empowered as they begin their college experience at Capital University.
Smooth Transitions 2026 Schedule
Smooth Transitions is a four-day program before Welcome Weekend. Students selected to participate in Smooth Transitions who will live on campus, or plan to live on campus during this program will move in on Tuesday morning, August 18. The program runs August 18 – 21, followed by Welcome weekend which is August 22 – August 25. Both programs cover different topics.
If you have questions about August programming, please email odi@capital.edu.
Applications are now open!
The 2026 Smooth Transitions program application is available now! Students are encouraged to apply by July 12, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Smooth Transitions begins before the start of the academic year, with move-in on August 18. Programming will begin on the afternoon of August 18 and continue until the end of day on Friday August 21. Students then transition into the Welcome Weekend experience beginning Saturday, August 22. After the initial experience, Smooth Transition provides ongoing support throughout students' first two semesters at Capital University.
No, commuter students are welcome! There will be enough time each day for you to arrive on campus before activities begin. There is also an opportunity for you to reside on campus during Smooth Transitions and Welcome Weekend free of charge.
Smooth Transitions takes place before the rest of the incoming class comes to campus for Welcome Weekend. During early move-in, students will be greeted by mentors and Resident Assistants (RAs) upon arrival. You’ll receive your room key and be escorted to your residence hall, where mentors will also help you move in your belongings.
Throughout the program, you’ll learn about the various campus resources available, learn who works there, their locations and how to access them. You’ll also develop skills crucial to communicating and interacting with your professors, how to engage with student organizations, and finding your #CapFam.
Yes, you must apply to participate in Smooth Transitions. Applications open in April and are due on July 12. You’ll be notified of your status by late July.
No, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided, with accommodations for dietary restrictions. All activities during Smooth Transitions are completely free for participants.
If you need to leave the ST Program early for any reason, such as athletic practice or participating in International Student Orientation, please notify the Office of Diversity and Inclusion as soon as possible. You’ll be provided with any information you need to continue your transition to campus upon your return. Please do not schedule work during Smooth Transitions or Welcome Weekend.
Summer Orientation is a day program during the summer where you (and your family) come to campus and work on your fall registration, understand your financial aid award letter and get an introduction to campus life and opportunities.
Smooth Transitions is an early arrival program that offers a tailored approach to student success, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds, including first generation students. Students must apply for this program.
International Student Orientation is an early arrival program for all international students that has sessions focused on some of the unique needs of an international student, such as understanding a U.S. educational system, U.S. healthcare and immigration responsibilities.
Welcome Weekend is a required program for all first-year students which has different sessions from the other orientation programs that incorporate community building, understanding Title IX, student responsibilities and resources and an opportunity to take an excursion to learn about the fun activities in the Columbus area.