Transitioning to life on a university campus can be difficult for any student, and even more of a daunting task for first generation, transfer or students of color. That’s where Otterbein’s Nurturing Educational Success & Transitions (NEST) Program can help make it easier.

“The NEST program really helps students get off to a strong start,” said James Prysock, director of Otterbein’s Office of Social Justice & Activism. “It is vitally important that students find their place on campus, meet various community resources and build productive relationships. The NEST Program does just that!”

NEST is designed to ease the transition of first-year students that identify as first generation, transfer, and/or students of color, so that they may succeed personally, socially and academically. Additionally, the program helps each new student connect with other peers, a mentor, and ultimately, the institution as a whole. Students participating in NEST moved in on Aug. 17.

This year, 30 NEST students participated in numerous activities to engage students from the very beginning. Activities included creating a vision board, attending a Columbus Clippers minor league baseball game, teambuilding exercises at a ropes course, a campus scavenger hunt, a traditional doughnut run to Otterbein student favorite Schneider’s Bakery, laser tag and meeting with alumni.

Visit the Otterbein Office of Social Justice & Activism’s website for more information on upcoming campus events and initiatives.