Summer Transition Program

When you start at Castleton, you’re taking a big leap.

That's why we offer the Summer Transition Program (STP) to TRIO students entering their first semester at Castleton.

Summer Transition Program

Summer Transition Program (STP) is a five-day program that runs the week before first-year orientation every August. The 2021 Summer Transition Program will take place from Sunday, August 15 - Thursday, August 19. During the week, you will live on campus with other students and upper-class students who will serve as mentors. You'll participate in workshops, projects, and experiential activities about various topics, including learning styles, time management, research papers, and paying for college. We'll acquaint you with the ins and outs of campus life and discuss how you can succeed in college.

Oh, and did we mention STP is fun? Past STP groups have attended plays, watched movies, tried rock-climbing, and hiked Vermont's beautiful mountains, all while making new friends. By the time first-year orientation is underway, you'll be a part of the team - and feel much more at home at Castleton. 

Best of all the Summer Transition Program is free to all students accepted into the program. It includes housing, meals, and all workshops and activities, and it’s open to residential and commuter students. 

Are you playing a fall sport?          

Good for you! However, your practice and training schedule may conflict with STP, so you may not be able to participate in the program. But don’t worry: your time with your team will give you the same jump-start on college life, and you can always meet with us during the semester to discuss everything we cover during STP. 

STP Application Information  

The Summer Transition Program admits first-year students selected according to U.S. Department of Education TRIO grant guidelines.

Applications are due July 1, 2021. Preference for STP admission will be given to students who meet two of the three following criteria:

• Neither parent has a four-year degree, OR
• Your family has a low to modest income (according to TRIO guidelines), OR
• You have a documented disability according to the Americans with Disabilities Act

APPLY for the Summer Transition Program

SSS TRIO Achievement Grant Application Information

To earn the $1,000-$2,000 Fall 2021 SSS TRIO Achievement Grant, all criteria below must be met: 

• Receipt of Federal Pell grant in Fall 2021
• Regular meetings with ASC staff during the 2021-2022 year
• Fall 2021 GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Unmet financial need or loans
• Completion of Financial Literacy 101 online course
• Grant application due October 21, 2021

SSS TRIO Achievement Grants will be awarded in February 2022.