The Transitions Program: A Precollege Advising and Orientation Workshop for Students and Parents
The authors describe the rationale behind, processes related to, and evaluation of The Transitions Program, a precollege advising and orientation program for students and parents. The program advisors educate participants about realistic college-life expectations and provide them with strategies for meeting the challenges and opportunities of the college transition. Students and parents responded separately to a questionnaire designed to sensitize them to college transition challenges. They were subsequently led by professional staff, faculty advisors, and students through a discussion of expected experiences. Survey results, discussion summaries, and suggestions for advisor follow-up activities are provided.
Contributor Notes
Elizabeth Paul is Associate Professor of Psychology at The College of New Jersey and is co-editor of Transformations: The Journal of Inclusive Scholarship and Pedagogy.
Magda Manetas is Assistant Dean of Student Life, formerly Director of Residence Life, at The College of New Jersey.
Kelly Grady, formerly Area Director for The First Year Experience Program at The College of New Jersey, is currently a doctoral student in Higher Education Administration at the University of Pennsylvania.
Jeanine Vivona is Associate Professor of Psychology at The College of New Jersey and has a private psychotherapy practice in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
We wish to thank Mary Elaine Perry, Dean of Student Life, for her assistance with this program.
