The Transition to College Program is a comprehensive approach to help students who wish to improve academic performance and transition more smoothly to the rigors of college academics.
Predictors for Improving Academic Achievement
A Structured Transition to College Life - Studies show that students who have a structured transition period do better academically.
Self-Advocacy - Students who are strong self-advocates achieve academic success. Self-advocacy involves mastering:
Self-Knowledge - How and when a student learns best; preferences; goals; dreams
Communication Skills - Students must learn to communicate their unique learning styles; to develop advising and mentoring relationships; and to seek the resources necessary to "fill in the gaps" created by weaknesses.
Student Rights - Knowledge of the changes in how the law changes from high school to college for those who have documented learning disabilities, as well as how the expectations change between high school and college.
Meeting the Predictors
Participants arrive on campus approximately one month early to take part in a series of classes, on and off campus activities, and seminars designed to let them experience the first semester before it actually begins. The Transition to College period lasts approximately three weeks, during which time the students become familiar with college academics, their new environment, and have an opportunity to experience how their decisions will impact their ability to succeed in college.
Learning Assessment
Each participant receives a thorough learning assessment. The results of this assessment are used to build the Menlo College Learning Portfolio, and to make sure that if the student is dealing with undiscovered learning issues, we will be able to take appropriate action to help the student learn to deal effectively with those issues.
The Transition to College Counselor
The Transition to College Counselor, Dr. Mary White, is the participant's academic advisor and mentor. She will work with the students to achieve a high-level of self-advocacy. Participants will gain insight into how they learn best, how to communicate their learning styles to professors, how to organize their time in a professional manner, and the importance of working from a position of strength. The program participants also take a Menlo Success course with Dr. White, enabling her to effectively monitor their progress. Dr. White will also act as a liaison to help students learn how to leverage the resources of the Academic Success Center, tutoring and writing labs.
Admission
There is no separate admission process for the Transition to College Program. Simply indicate anywhere on your application or in your essay that you wish to be considered for the program. An interview with students and parents is strongly advised for those considering the Transition to College Program.
Cost
Transition to College Month - $6,000 includes tuition, room and board, all scheduled activities, and a complete learning assessment. There is no additional cost for ongoing support; however, there is no merit scholarship money available for participants of the Program.
Note: All Program participants are fully matriculated Menlo College students. As such, there is no identification of participants on class rosters, transcripts or diplomas. All students take the same rigorous Menlo College courses and must meet the same degree requirements.
