Making the Transition
Students undergo continuous transitions as they move forward from high
school to college and beyond their collegiate experience. In an effort to
support them in successfully making their way, to, through, and beyond the
University, the Office provides the following resources
 Pre-Orientation
Program
Women’s
Network
Men’s
Connection
Individualized
Advising
Pre-Orientation Program
Each year, the Office of Multicultural Affairs implements a program for
incoming first year American students of color to assist them in making a
smooth transition into the University community.
During the three day program, (which precedes the general orientation)
participants are introduced to campus resources and involved in workshops
that are designed to assist them in maximizing their collegiate experience.
The staff includes a diverse group of upper level students who have
distinguished themselves in, as well as beyond the classroom as campus
leaders and scholars.
As participants in the Pre-Orientation program, first year students tend to
forge important friendships with other students on campus while gaining
comfort in their new campus home. Throughout the program, lively discussions
are held which cover a variety of topics. A sampling of the workshops are
highlighted below. The format of the Program includes lively student led
discussions, case studies showcasing campus life, faculty presentations and
opportunities for participants to visit off campus sites.
Workshop Topics
- Making the transition from high school to college
- Strategies for academic success
- Decoding the professor
- Conflict management
- Male and female relationships
- Recognizing and making use of University resources
- Your safety and security
Lasting friendships are often traced to the shared experiences students have
with one another during this transition program.
 Peer Advising and Mentoring Program
Through the Peer Advising and Mentoring Program, first year students are
assigned student mentors who support them in adapting to the University
community. Mentors and mentees meet each month and engage in activities that
not only lead to strong friendship bonds but also support freshmen in
recognizing and utilizing campus resources. The mentor team also assists
mentees in developing strategies to enhance classroom success and promote
involvement in extra-curricular activities. This program is one of several
initiatives headed by the Academic Skills Center, to support the enrollment
and retention of students.
The Office facilitates a Women’s Network where students regularly engage in
conversations about topics that affect them academically, emotionally, and
spiritually as women on the University’s campus. The discussion topics are
student selected and often student led.
The Men’s Connection provides an opportunity for male students to fellowship
and discuss issues that affect them emotionally, spiritually and
academically as men on the University’s campus. The discussions and
activities are student driven and based upon the interests of the
participants.
Dr. Cade, the Director of the Office, is available to meet regularly and on
an individualized basis with students interested in seeking out the services
provided through the Office. These meetings typically focus upon a student’s
academic performance and general adjustment to the campus community as well
as articulated special needs or voiced concerns initiated by students.
Mentoring Alliance Program
This year marks the first in which select faculty and staff will be involved
in a formal mentoring network to further enhance quality of life experiences
for a cadre of self selected first year students. Through this initiative
Alliance members will hold periodic meetings with their assigned students to
help students overcome any hurdles they may experience and offer feedback in
supporting them to reach their full potential both in and beyond the
classroom. A primary goal of the Mentor Alliance is to provide assistance at
a level that encourages both academic and social integration into the
University community.
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Office of Multicultural Affairs
