Through Smith’s lively orientation programs you’ll form social connections and establish meaningful support networks within the college community before your classes begin.

Beginning with the orientation for first-year students, Smith places tremendous importance on the interests and needs of students who identify themselves as women of color. Recent programs have included:

• Bridge, which promotes cross-cultural dialogue and leadership development
• Cultural Connections, a thought-provoking analysis of community
• Social Identities and Self-Discovery, an exploration of commonalities and differences
• Smith by Design, a knowledge treasure hunt using the college’s libraries, collections and other facilities
• Inward Bound, a meditative and creative journey of discovery
• Leadership, an insightful program on how to become involved on campus
• Outdoor Adventure, camping excursions highlighting teamwork and communication

During the Bridge program, student leaders facilitate interactive seminars and group activities exploring similarities and differences among and across cultural groups. Participants are encouraged to share their perspectives and hear the voices of others in order to challenge misconceptions and build understanding. Workshop topics range from those designed to encourage activism and awareness to those that focus on women-centered leadership.