Learning to survive college

Prior to hitting the books, some Grand Valley students will hit the water, on a canoe trip designed to build friendships and mentorships.

The Office of Multicultural Affairs is coordinating a 'Surviving College' orientation for incoming freshmen enrolled in one of three minority scholarship programs. About 50 students, including upperclassmen as mentors, are expected to attend the August 21-23 event, which is also sponsored by Grand Valley's Math and Science Division. GVSU classes begin on Monday, August 26.

Eduardo Sanchez, assistant director of Multicultural Affairs, said the orientation includes an overnight stay at Montague's Pioneer Trails, where the group will take a four-hour canoe trip. Other activities include seminars on community service and time management, cultural workshops, and a welcome address from President Mark A. Murray.

Participating students are enrolled in one of three programs designed to address the academic and social needs of minority students in business, science and mathematics, and education.