Intercultural Experience Program
Accepted students of color, international students, and students interested in learning more about diversity at Stonehill are invited to campus campus one day before First Year Orientation for our Intercultural Experience Program.
Social events also help new students create a sense of community with their peers and current Stonehill students who serve as mentors in the ALANA-A Brothers & Sisters Leadership Program. The program is optional for, however we highly recommend that you join us for this fun and informative program!
Registration takes place at the June orientation sessions and until July 15, 2012.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there an additional orientation session to discuss diversity issues?
While diversity is infused in many of our programs at Stonehill, we have identified a unique way to reach students who particularly want to engage in conversations about diversity prior to coming to Stonehill. Students of all backgrounds are welcome and strongly encouraged to sign up!
Many students of color (those who share an African, Latino, Asian, Native American heritage) choose to attend this pre-orientation program. We believe an opportunity to meet other students of color -- as well as current leaders of color -- is important in creating and fostering community! No matter where you come from prior to Stonehill, students from underrepresented groups state that there are similar issues they face when coming to Stonehill.
For some, coming to Stonehill may be the first time they have been "in the minority." For others, they are unsure how to address issues of diversity with their friends, classmates, and/or roommates.
Some students have found great value in having a core group of friends prior to meeting and integrating with the rest of the student body. Participating in pre-orientation also means that you meet members of the Stonehill community in much smaller groups. These small group interactions allow you to create a relationship with members who are helpful in addressing issues of diversity.
Is there a cost associated with pre-orientation?
There are no additional costs to pre-orientation.
If I participate in pre-orientation, when should I arrive at Stonehill?
Move-in day for pre-orientation is on Friday before orientation from 9am-12:00pm. Your first pre-orientation session will start at 12:00pm on Friday with a luncheon for you and your family in the Roche Dining Commons. We recommend coming to campus earlier in the day so that you can set up your room and feel settled prior to participating in pre-orientation activities. You will arrive at your residence hall and meet your ALANA-A Sister/Brother.
I cannot attend pre-orientation. Can I still be matched with an ALANA-A Brother or Sister?
Yes. The mentoring relationship that the ALANA-A Brothers & Sisters have with their mentees goes beyond pre-orientation. Many Brothers & Sisters have stayed in touch with their mentees throughout their years at Stonehill and have developed invaluable relationships.
If you cannot attend the pre-orientation, will can still match you with an ALANA-A Brother & Sister at Stonehill; however, you will need to email Ms. Liza Talusan (LTalusan@stonehill.edu) to request one. Your ABS will meet with you during First Year Orientation and throughout the first semester.
If I attend the Intercultural Experience Program, will I still attend the orientation that the other students attend?
Yes! The Intercultural Experience Program ends just as the other orientation begins. You will not miss any part of the Fall Orientation!