Bridging into the Academy: Examining the Value of First-Year Transition Programs

Moving through student educational experiences involves making continuous and significant transitions. Despite practiced transition experiences throughout various stages of life, the transition into the academy leaves many students overwhelmed, confused, and lost. As students entering the academy grow increasingly diverse, it becomes necessary to address specific needs they will have as they bridge into college. The author questions how successful transitions are accomplished and seeks to recognize methods for creating orientation and transition programs to meet the diverse needs of rising first-year students