Cultural & Community Engagement supports students of diverse backgrounds through our Early Transition Program (ETP) that takes place prior to the university orientation. ETP is designed for new students from historically underrepresented groups (i.e. African American, Native American, Hispanic American, Asian American and international students that have studied previously in the U.S.) in transitioning to the academic, cultural and social climate at Hollins. Students are encouraged to participate in this program scheduled for August 25-26, 2009.

Sessions include information on academic success, cultural and inclusion exercises, personal development, linking with upper class student leaders and learning about the resources to build stronger relationships at Hollins. For more information see our ETP flyer. There are a number of students that will serve as peer mentors that help to organize the sessions as well as to prepare fun activities which will give our new students a head start on meeting new people and learning about the campus.

Many students choose to attend this optional program. Here are some comments from past participants about the Early Transition Program:

"Attending the Early Transition Program made me feel more confident on opening day. I already knew so much about the campus. It was definitely worth it."

"I really loved going bowling at night. It really helped begin relationships."

"I would like to be able to help next year with transitioning as a peer mentor."

"It was great to spend time getting to know my peer mentor and connecting with people in small groups."

If you have any questions about this program, please contact Jeri Suarez at: jsuarez@hollins.edu.