More than 70 incoming freshmen will attend the Summer Transition Program (STP) at Lynchburg College Aug. 14-19 to get a jump-start on adjusting to college life.
The program targets students from minority backgrounds, students who are the first in their families to attend college, and international students adjusting to a new culture.
A major component of the program is an evaluation of student technological skills. About 20 students will be selected for a semester-long class to help improve their computer skills. Students will be introduced to the basics of MS Word 2007 word processing, rudiments of creating a spreadsheet and a PowerPoint presentation, and creating a simple personal database. They will also study online reference and searching skills. This course will count as four credits toward graduation.
During STP, students will also get study skills and time management training, College Satisfaction Inventory results, and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator testing. These tools will be used to help with their academic and career goals.
Students will also attend workshops on leadership and team-building strategies, as well as staying healthy and getting involved in community service. They will also be introduced to College facilities, resources, and recreational opportunities.
The STP program is funded in part by the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC)/Verizon Foundation "Digital Age Initiative" grant. Lynchburg College was one of five schools to receive the $22,500 grant. The other recipients were Bridgewater College, Hollins University, Randolph-Macon College, and the University of Richmond.
The VFIC and the Verizon Foundation partnered on this three-year funding program (2007-2010) to help VFIC colleges and universities provide incoming freshmen from challenged backgrounds with instruction and assistance in developing the computer skills they need to succeed in their academic careers.
Each year, five of the 15 VFIC colleges are selected to receive this $22,500 grant and utilize the funds to provide students with personalized instruction and the tools needed for them to study, live, work, and succeed in a digital age.