Inaugural Transition Fair Held as New HS Graduates Prepare for College

EastBridge Foundation (EBF) and Chinese-American Council (CPC) held their inaugural Freshman Transition Fair at Henry Street Settlement in New York City in July, 2019. This is part of a year long program developed by EBF and CPC to help AAPI youths successfully navigate college by learning about college experience from other college students and building a new support system by connecting with other freshmen and mentors.

The goals of the Transition Fair are to help incoming freshmen better understand what to expect in college and what resources are available to help with the transition from high school to college. At the event, a panel of upper classmen shared their college experience with incoming freshmen and offered personal insights into college academics and campus life. Afterwards, the students visit over a dozen resource booths moderated by volunteers/mentors on college relevant topics including time management, note taking tips, budgeting, financial aid, health and wellness, college resources.

About 50 students attended the event with about 20 volunteers and mentors. The event provided practical information about college academic and social life, peer sharing of common experiences and an early opportunity for students to connect with peers and mentors. With an improved understanding of the college experience, the incoming freshmen would be in a better position to anticipate expected changes and deal with common challenges for a smoother transition.