<p>I would imagine this email only went to seniors accepted ED. Anyone who is accepted RD will be informed about this program when they get their acceptance package (i.e., the thick envelope). If you are a junior -- of course you weren't invited. Yet.</p>
<p>I went last year, and I would definitely recommend it. It's not vital; I just remember it being another day on campus where I was able to meet people and just enjoy myself. </p>
<p>However, if you do decide to go to Brown as a student of color, I would definitely recommend going to TWTP (Third World Transition Program). Definitely one of the more significant points in my life without a doubt. Despite what you read about it, the point of it is to see the world through a different lens in a safe environment (and if that's not enough, you get to come to campus a few days earlier to move-in).</p>
<p>As for the offensive-ness of the term, I believe it it was already very well explained. Third World is a term of empowerment and solidarity amongst people of color. It's just used as an arbitrary term that include anyone from neither the first (Western capitalism) of the second (communist bloc) world.</p>