<p>does anyone know firsthand what the third world transition program (preorientation) is like and if its worth going to?</p>
<p>I would highly recommend the program having been a participant my freshman year and then returning to help run the program my second year. You will never find another group of people more dedicated to ushering you into your freshman year. The program is a great introduction to Brown, its resources, and your fellow students and is a mix of social events, group building activities, and workshops on systems of oppression. I think this program is unique because of the level of intimacy it creates in such a short period of time, and you will definitely come away feeling like you’ve known these people your whole life. Well, that might be a bit of an exaggeration, but stuff does come up that you would never expect to hear from a stranger you met two days ago. Far from being some ordinary diversity workshop, this program challenges you to look at who you are and where you’ve come from in a very real and direct way. You meet people with backgrounds so different from your own that it is hard not to reevaluate your own history in this light. You will come away with a greater understanding and appreciation for your peers. Even if it isn’t life changing, I promise that if you don’t write it off as something you’ve already seen and heard a million times, it will be one of the most inspiring and gratifying moments you’ll ever have at Brown. If you have any questions please message me.</p>
<p>I met my best friends at TWTP. I was at first debating whether or not I should bother doing this program last summer. I truly believe it was one of the best decisions I made in my life. The program focuses on the five "-isms of oppression": racism, sexism, heterosexism/homophobia, classism, and imperialism. I have to war you that the days are long, and you will be sitting on the floor for the majority of the time. But the friendships you make will eliminate those drawbacks. The thing with orientation is that NOTHING is really mandatory, so it doesn't force you meet people. In TWTP you are constantly with people, and discussing important issues. If I could choose one thing to relive it would definitely be TWTP. It was a priceless experience (quite literally too!).</p>